Can I Use Dryer Balls and Dryer Sheets Together?

July 25, 2023

While you certainly can use dryer balls and dryer sheets together, you don’t need to. With Smart Sheep wool dryer balls, you can say goodbye to chemical-laden dryer sheets and liquid fabric softener.

Quick links:

What’s the point of dryer sheets?

What’s the point of wool dryer balls?

Do wool dryer balls really work?

What are the benefits of wool dryer balls?

How many wool dryer balls do you need?

Dryer sheets vs dryer balls

Wool dryer balls are far superior to dryer sheets. Want to try them for yourself?

What is the Point of Dryer Sheets?

Dryer sheets add a softening and freshening effect to laundry during the drying cycle. They are typically infused with fabric softeners and fragrances that help reduce static cling, soften fabrics, and leave your clothes smelling nice. Dryer sheets also help to minimize wrinkles and make clothes feel smoother to the touch.

But dryer sheets typically contain chemicals and synthetic fragrances that can be harmful to your health and the environment. They may release toxic substances when heated, which can potentially irritate the respiratory system and cause allergic reactions.

We recommend switching to eco-friendly dryer sheet alternatives like wool dryer balls. Your wallet, your health, and the environment will all thank you.

Pros of Dryer Sheets

Dryer sheets offer several advantages when used in laundry. Here are a few of them:

Reducing static cling: dryer sheets help to reduce static electricity in fabrics, minimizing static cling and preventing clothes from sticking together.
Fragrance: they add a pleasant scent to laundry.
Wrinkle reduction: dryer sheets can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles in clothes.
Easy to use: they’re convenient and easy to use. Simply toss a sheet into the dryer with your laundry, and it will do its job.

Cons of Dryer Sheets

Dryer sheets are bad for the planet and for you. Here are some of the cons of dryer sheets:

Ecological impact: dryer sheets are typically made from synthetic materials and contain chemicals that may not biodegrade easily, contributing to environmental pollution.
Environmental concerns: the production and disposal of dryer sheets contribute to plastic waste and landfill pollution, as most dryer sheets are not recyclable or compostable.
Health risks: dryer sheets often contain chemicals, such as fragrances and fabric softening agents, which can be potential irritants and may trigger allergies or respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.
Chemical exposure: dryer sheets release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when heated, which can contribute to indoor air pollution and may have adverse health effects.
Cost: while dryer sheets may seem cheaper upfront, the cost can add up over time as you need to continuously purchase new sheets. In contrast, wool dryer balls last for around 1000 drying cycles.

What is the Point of Wool Dryer Balls?

Our wool dryer balls are natural fabric softeners and are made of the finest New Zealand wool. They offer an effective, eco-friendly alternative to softener or dryer sheets. As they bounce around in the dryer, they create air circulation and gently massage the fibers of your clothes, resulting in quicker drying and softer, fluffier laundry.

They're fragrance-free, but our essential oil scenting spray makes it easy to add essential oil fragrances to your laundry by spritzing the dryer balls before tossing them in.

Do Wool Dryer Balls Really Work?

Wool dryer balls work by shortening drying times, fluffing your laundry, and being a great way to add essential oil fragrances to your laundry.

Here are just a few of the ways that these wooly wonders work in the dryer.

Improved air circulation: as the dryer balls tumble, they separate and lift the clothing, allowing hot air to circulate more efficiently.
Moisture absorption: the wool fibers of the dryer balls absorb excess moisture from the clothes.
Softening and fluffing: the gentle agitation of the dryer balls helps to naturally soften fabrics and reduce wrinkles.
Reduction of static cling: by preventing clothes from sticking together during the drying process, wool dryer balls help to minimize static electricity buildup.

What are the Benefits of Wool Dryer Balls?

Let’s see what benefits wool dryer balls have to offer.

Accelerate drying time: wool dryer balls could speed up your drying process by a whopping 25%! These nifty balls absorb surplus moisture and create air pockets between your laundry items. The result is a quicker drying time thanks to improved airflow in the dryer.
Reduce wrinkles: wool dryer balls work their magic by keeping your clothes moving and preventing them from sticking to the dryer's sides. This enhanced tumble action means fewer wrinkles.
Quieter operation: wool dryer balls are a quieter alternative to plastic dryer balls or tennis balls because they are softer and less rigid—not to mention way more eco-friendly.
No unwanted fragrance: wool dryer balls are ideal for those with allergies, asthma, or sensitivity to fragrances. They are free of artificial fragrances. If you do miss that fresh clothes smell, you can still add a few drops of essential oil or buy our all-natural scenting spray, available in lemon, orange, or lavender.
Environmentally friendly: our wool dryer balls are crafted from renewable, natural wool, promoting sustainability. Their ability to reduce drying time leads to significant energy savings and decreases carbon emissions. Unlike disposable dryer sheets, which contribute to landfill waste, these balls are reusable for up to 1000 loads and biodegradable at the end of their lifespan. By replacing chemical-based fabric softeners or dryer sheets, they prevent harmful substances from entering water systems, thus safeguarding aquatic ecosystems.

How Many Dryer Balls Per Laundry Load Do You Need?

Here are some general rules that should help you judge how many wool dryer balls to use.

For small to medium-sized loads, 3-4 balls should get the job done.
For larger loads, you can use 5-8 balls.
For extra-large loads, you may want to go as high as 9-12 balls.

Dryer Sheets vs Dryer Balls

When comparing wool dryer balls vs. dryer sheets, wool dryer balls win hands down.

Wool dryer balls create space between items and prevent overdrying. Warm air can circulate more freely between fabrics, saving time and energy to dry wet clothes completely. Increased air circulation reduces drying time by up to 25%.
Wool dryer balls are reusable and can last for hundreds of loads, as opposed to dryer sheets, which must be replaced after each use.
Wool balls are eco-friendly laundry products with a low environmental impact because they are made of natural, biodegradable New Zealand wool. You can help reduce landfill waste and contribute to a more sustainable future by eliminating single-use dryer sheets.
Dryer sheets frequently contain synthetic chemicals and artificial fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin and cause allergic reactions. Wool dryer balls, on the other hand, do not contain any harsh chemicals or fragrances.
The movement and gentle friction of wool dryer balls reduce static electricity. The balls naturally separate the garments as they tumble in the dryer, reducing friction and static cling.
Our wool dryer balls are unscented, but if you prefer scented laundry, you can spritz them with our Essential Oil Anti-Static Scenting Spray before each cycle. The balls will absorb the oil and release a subtle fragrance during the drying process, leaving your clothes lightly scented.
Shorter drying cycles will reduce your energy bills. Switching to wool dryer balls is a low-cost option for your laundry routine.

Dryer Balls and Dryer Sheets FAQ

Can I use dryer balls with bed sheets?

Yes, you can use dryer balls with bed sheets. Wool dryer balls are safe and effective for use with all types of laundry, including bed sheets, ensuring a comfortable and cozy night's sleep.

Do I need dryer sheets if I use dryer balls?

No, you don’t need dryer sheets if you have dryer balls. Dryer balls are a great alternative to dryer sheets and fabric softeners, too. They’ll provide the softening effect you need and save you money in the long run.

Can you use fabric softener sheets with wool dryer balls?

You can use fabric softener sheets with wool dryer balls if desired. However, fabric softener sheets may reduce the effectiveness of the wool dryer balls. Fabric softener sheets add a coating to the fabric, which can hinder the ability of the dryer balls to fluff and separate the laundry. To get the most benefit from your wool dryer balls, avoid using fabric softener sheets.

Do wool dryer balls replace dryer sheets?

Wool dryer balls can replace dryer sheets. They offer a natural and eco-friendly alternative to dryer sheets. Wool dryer balls help to soften laundry, reduce wrinkles, and eliminate static cling, just like dryer sheets. But they have the added benefits of reducing drying time and being reusable, making them a cost-effective and sustainable choice.

By using wool dryer balls, you can eliminate the need for dryer sheets and enjoy the benefits of a chemical-free and environmentally-friendly laundry routine.

Are laundry balls better than dryer sheets?

Yes, wool dryer balls are considered better than dryer sheets for several reasons.

They are more eco-friendly and sustainable as they are reusable and don't contribute to landfill waste like disposable dryer sheets.
Dryer balls help to soften clothing, reduce wrinkles, and eliminate static cling, just like dryer sheets, but without the use of potentially harmful chemicals.
Dryer balls can speed up drying time and improve air circulation, resulting in more efficient and energy-saving drying cycles.

How many dryer balls should I use?

The number of wool dryer balls to use depends on the size of your loads of laundry. Here is some general guidance:

For small to medium-sized loads, 3-4 balls are enough.
For larger loads, you can use 5-8 balls.
For extra-large loads, use as many as 9-12 balls.

Are wool dryer balls better than tennis balls?

Wool dryer balls are way better than tennis balls. Here’s why:

Wool dryer balls are made from 100% natural wool, while tennis balls are made of synthetic materials.
Dryer balls are free from harsh chemicals, and tennis balls contain chemicals or coatings that can transfer onto your laundry.
Wool dryer balls naturally soften fabrics, reduce wrinkles, and help to maintain the fluffiness of garments. Tennis balls, on the other hand, don’t have this power.
Wool dryer balls minimize static electricity in the dryer, resulting in less static cling on clothes than tennis balls.
Wool dryer balls are durable and can be used for years, while tennis balls tend to wear out faster.

Do dryer balls work for pet hair?

Dryer balls help remove fur, hair, white lint, dander, and other debris from your clothes, bedding, jackets, dresses, blankets, sheets, and anything else that you wash and dry.

How should I use dryer balls?

Using dryer balls is super easy. Simply toss a few of them into the dryer with your clothes, towels, sheets, blankets, and more. Don't add anything else, our dryer balls act as a natural fabric softener and decrease drying time, so you won't have to wait as long.