Should I wet my dryer balls?
While some believe wetting dryer balls improves performance, this isn’t true. Additional moisture only decreases the effectiveness of your dryer balls and might damage them.
Learn how extra moisture affects dryer balls and how to use them properly.
Quick links:
Is there any reason to wet dryer balls?
What happens when you wet dryer balls?
How to properly use dryer balls
Should you wet plastic dryer balls?
Ready to revolutionize your laundry routine? Try our premium wool dryer balls today and experience softer clothes, reduced drying time, and lower energy bills. Say goodbye to chemical-laden dryer sheets and hello to a natural, eco-friendly solution for your laundry needs.
Are there any pros of wet dryer balls?
Some people believe that damp balls add moisture to the dryer, reducing static and softening clothes more effectively. But, this isn’t true.
Dryer balls work by soaking up moisture from wet clothes, not adding moisture. Positive results are probably caused by the moisture on the dryer balls evaporating so they can perform regularly.
Dry wool dryer balls already optimally reduce drying time, soften fabrics, and minimize static cling. The natural properties of wool function best without extra moisture.
Why you shouldn’t wet your dryer balls
If you wet dryer balls, they will lose their effectiveness and can lead to problems. Despite some people believing otherwise, dry wool dryer balls perform better in your laundry. Here’s why:
- Reduced moisture absorption: Dry wool naturally pulls moisture from wet clothes. Wet dryer balls become less effective at absorbing water from your laundry, which results in longer drying times.
- Increased drying time: Damp dryer balls add unnecessary moisture to your dryer. This extra wetness extends the drying cycle, wasting energy and potentially leaving clothes damp.
- Loss of natural oils: Wool contains natural oils that soften fabrics. Unnecessary moisture causes dyer balls to lose this oil over time, reducing their fabric-softening capabilities.
- Shortened lifespan: Repeated wetting and drying cause wool fibers to break down faster.
- Decreased static reduction: Wet dryer balls struggle to combat static electricity effectively. Dry balls perform better at reducing static cling in your laundry.
Skip this dryer ball myth and stick to proper usage practices for best results.
How to properly use wool dryer balls
The best thing about wool dryer balls (besides the amazing results) is that they are really easy to use. Here's a quick guide to using wool dryer balls effectively:
- Throw a few dryer balls in with your wet laundry at the start of the drying cycle.
- Set your preferred drying temperature and start the machine.
- Expect a shorter drying time—dryer balls separate clothes and improve air circulation.
- Enjoy softer, less wrinkled, and static-free garments when the cycle ends.
It’s that simple. No extra water necessary.
What are the benefits of using wool dryer balls?
Dryer balls will revolutionize your laundry routine. These simple wool spheres transform the drying process and boost the quality of your clothes. Here are some of the main benefits of wool dryer balls:
- Faster drying times: Dryer balls create space between clothes as they tumble, which increases airflow. The improved air circulation dries clothes more quickly, cutting down on energy use and wear on fabrics.
- Reduced static cling: As they bounce around the dryer, wool dryer balls absorb moisture and humidity. This action minimizes the static electricity that causes clothes to stick together and cling to your body.
- Natural fabric softening: Wool dryer balls gently agitate fibers as clothes dry. This mechanical action softens fabrics without the need for chemical-laden liquid softeners or dryer sheets.
- Cost effective: A set of dryer balls lasts for hundreds of laundry loads. This longevity saves money compared to continually purchasing single-use dryer sheets or fabric softeners.
- Eco friendly: Reusable dryer balls reduce waste from disposable dryer sheets and plastic bottles of fabric softener. They also shorten drying times, which decreases energy consumption.
- No chemical residue: Unlike traditional fabric softeners and dryer sheets, wool dryer balls don't leave chemical residues on clothes, which is especially beneficial to people with sensitive skin or allergies.
- Customizable scents: For those who enjoy scented laundry, a few drops of essential oil on wool dryer balls adds a natural fragrance without harsh chemicals.
Is wetting plastic dryer balls a good idea?
Wetting plastic dryer balls isn't a good idea either. Like their wool counterparts, plastic dryer balls work best when they're dry. These balls help clothes dry faster by creating space between items in the clothes dryer, which lets hot air move around better. When you wet them, you're just adding unnecessary moisture to your dryer.
So, keep your plastic dryer balls dry. Or don’t use them at all; our wool dryer balls outperform plastic dryer balls in every way.
Choose Smart Sheep eco-friendly laundry products
Smart Sheep offers amazing eco-friendly laundry products. From all-natural wool dryer balls to innovative detergent strips, our range covers all your needs for a greener laundry routine.
Our natural products offer powerful cleaning performance while reducing environmental impact. Your wardrobe and the Earth benefit from our sustainable approach to laundry care.
Wool dryer balls FAQ
Can dryer balls damage the dryer?
Dryer balls will not damage your dryer. Made from natural materials such as wool or rubber, these spheres tumble safely in the drum. They separate clothes and boost airflow, speeding up drying without harming your appliance. Their effectiveness persists through countless loads of laundry.
Do you just throw your dryer balls in the dryer?
You simply toss dryer balls into the dryer with your wet laundry. No special preparation is needed. Add them at the start of each cycle, and they'll work their magic throughout the drying process. Remove them with your dry clothes when the cycle ends.
Are dryer balls better than dryer sheets?
Dryer balls are much better than dryer sheets. They contain no harmful chemicals, reduce static and wrinkles, and shorten drying time. While sheets provide a fresh scent, dryer balls can be enhanced with essential oil to add fragrance. These natural fabric softeners also last longer and work well for those with sensitivities.
Should we use dryer balls in the washing machine?
Dryer balls are not for use in washing machines. They won’t have any effect and you will degrade their quality.
How many wool balls do I need per load of laundry?
Put anywhere from 3 to 12 wool dryer balls in your dryer, depending on your needs and preferences.
- For small to medium loads, 3 to 4 balls are enough.
- For larger loads, 5 to 8 balls will do the job.
- For extra-large loads, use 8 to 12 balls to get the best results.
How do dryer balls perform with different water temperatures?
Dryer balls work effectively whether you wash in hot water or cold water. They reduce drying time for all loads by separating clothes and improving air circulation. Use your preferred wash temperature based on fabric care labels.
Can dryer balls replace both fabric softener and dryer sheets?
Dryer balls can replace liquid fabric softener and dryer sheets. They soften clothes naturally, reduce static, and cut drying time. Unlike traditional fabric softeners, dryer balls don't leave chemical residues on your clean laundry. Dab your dryer balls with essential oils to add fragrance to your laundry.
Are dryer balls safe for all fabric types?
Dryer balls are safe for most fabrics, including natural fibers and synthetic materials. For very delicate items, use the gentle cycle or air dry. Dryer balls are especially effective at softening towels and reducing wrinkles in sturdier fabrics.
How can I add scent when using dryer balls?
To add a pleasant scent, put a few drops of essential oil on your dryer balls before use. This natural method avoids synthetic fragrances. Or, spritz them with Smart Sheep scenting spray for a pleasant aroma of lavender, orange, or lemon.
Further reading
Detergent sheets or liquid detergents: What to choose?
What are the best laundry detergents for sensitive skin?
Why should I put a safety pin on wool dryer balls?
