Dryer balls are great for helping to reduce the time it takes for your laundry to dry. Unlike other drying aids like dryer sheets and fabric softeners, dryer balls don’t contain any harsh chemicals. This makes them a much more environmentally friendly choice.

In this article, we are going to discuss how dryer balls work, give you some tips on how to use them properly, and explain the benefits of using them. We’ll finish by answering all the most frequently asked questions people have when it comes to using dryer balls. Let’s get started.

Dryer balls keep your laundry separated

The main function of dryer balls is to keep your laundry separated during a drying cycle. They do this by bouncing around the dryer drum which helps to create gaps between your clothes and other laundry items. The main benefit of this is that the hot air can circulate better which reduces the drying time. This then results in lower energy costs to run your dryer.

Dryer balls absorb moisture

Dryer balls also help to absorb moisture from your clothes and other laundry items. The best dryer balls are made from wool. When you put dryer balls into the dryer drum they are completely dry so they absorb moisture very well. This is another reason why they help to dry your load of laundry quicker.

Dryer balls soften fabrics

When dryer balls are bouncing around the dryer drum they help soften your laundry fabrics by gently rubbing them. This helps remove wrinkles in your clothes and other laundry items so they come out of the dryer not only dry but ready to be worn straight away.

Dryer balls reduce static

Have you ever put on a piece of clothing out of the dryer and felt a shock? This is called static. Dryer balls help reduce static by preventing your clothes and other laundry items from rubbing up against each other. 

Dryer balls reduce lint

Dryer balls also help to reduce lint. Lint can develop in your dryer when laundry items rub up against each other. Because dryer balls keep the items separate, lint doesn’t develop.

How to use dryer balls

Now that you know how they work, let’s discuss the best way to use them. For best results, follow these steps when using dryer balls:

1. Add essential oil. The first step is optional. If you want to add a nice scent to your laundry you can place a few drops of your favorite essential oil onto your dryer balls.
2. Place the dryer balls in your dryer. Place 2 to 4 dryer balls in with your load of laundry. The number of balls depends on the size of your load. 
3. Start the dryer. Turn your dryer onto a cycle. Once the dryer starts the balls will start to bounce around.
4. Take the dryer balls out. Once the drying cycle ends, take the dryer balls out and store them somewhere safe for next time.

Why use dryer balls

• Dry your laundry faster. Dryer balls help to speed up the drying time by separating the laundry during the drying cycle.
• Lower your energy bill. Because dryer balls speed up the drying process this means they lower your energy bills. Over a year, this can equate to hundreds of dollars.
• Less static and lint. Dryer balls help reduce static and lint. This means when you put on an item of clothing fresh out of the dryer you won’t experience static shocks and your clothes won’t be covered in lint.
• They are durable. High-quality dryer balls made from wool last for up to 1000 drying cycles. For most people, this will mean they last for many years. Considering how much they reduce your energy costs they are a great investment.
• Environmentally friendly. Wools dryer balls don’t produce any waste. When worn out they can be composted instead of thrown in the trash as they fully decompose.

Dryer balls FAQs

How do dryer balls work?

Dryer balls work by separating laundry items during a drying cycle. This helps speed up the drying process by reducing moisture which in turn helps reduce your energy costs. They are also effective at reducing static as well as lint building up on your laundry items.

How long do dryer balls last?

Good quality dryer balls will last for several years depending on how often you use them. Some manufacturers claim they last for up to 1000 drying cycles. You will know when they need to be replaced because they will start to lose shape and stop working correctly.

Are dryer balls safe for sensitive skin?

Yes. High-quality dryer balls are generally safe for sensitive skin. This is because they don’t contain any nasty chemicals which cause skin irritation. However, if you have sensitive skin you should avoid putting essential oils on your dryer balls.

Do dryer balls damage clothes?

No. High-quality dryer balls are made from wool so are gentle on your clothes and other laundry items. Because dryer balls separate clothes drying the drying cycle they actually help protect your clothes.

Do dryer balls work for all types of fabrics?

Dryer balls can be used when drying all major types of fabrics, including linen, cotton, and polyester. If you’re drying delicate laundry items made from fabrics like wool and silk, dryer balls may damage them so it’s best not to use them.

How do I clean my dryer balls?

Dryer balls can be washed by hand in hot soapy water or in the washing machine with other laundry items. Before using them again, make sure they are completely dry or they won’t work properly.