- Wool dryer balls are the most popular—they’re hypoallergenic, absorbent, and quieter in your dryer than plastic or rubber balls.
- 100% wool dryer balls contain no chemicals, dyes, or fillers. Plastic and rubber balls may contain PVCs and other substances.
Full Answer
How do I choose the best dryer balls?
- Although wool dryer balls from sheep-friendly sources are available, they may not be suitable for consumers who prefer not to use animal-based products. ...
- Keep a basket of laundry balls in your laundry room or close to your dryer. ...
- Do you wash and dry your laundry at the laundromat? ...
Which wool dryer balls are the Best Buy?
The Best Dryer Balls to Try
- Best Overall: Smart Sheep Wool Dryer Balls
- Best for Linens: Branch Basics
- Best Organic: Woolzies Wool Dryer Balls
- Best for Lint: Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls
- Best for Static: Parachute Wool Dryer Balls
- Best for Pet Hair: Ecoigy Wool Dryer Balls
- Best Plastic: Whitmor Dryer Balls
- Best Wrinkle-Reducing: SnugPad XL Wool Dryer Balls
Do dryer balls really work?
Yes! Dryer balls reduce drying time by getting in between items in the dryers and helping to separate them as the tumble. This promotes better air circulation within the dryer helping to more quickly evaporate moisture in the towels and draw it away.
Are wool dryer balls worth it?
Yes, wool dryer balls are better than plastic ones in my opinion, all day long! Why use something plastic when you can use a naturally sources product like wool dryer balls! Another nice perk to using wool dryer balls over plastic dryer balls is that they are much more quiet than plastic dryer balls.
How long do dryer balls last?
Can dryer balls cut down on drying time?
About this website
Which is better plastic or wool dryer balls?
Since wool dryer balls are generally heavier than plastic, they do a better job at breaking up your laundry and shortening dry times.
Which dryer balls are better?
Wool dryer balls are the best at reducing this static cling because of their ability to absorb moisture and keep the air damp.
How many dryer balls should you use?
The number of dryer balls you use can be determined by the size of the laundry load you are drying. For small to medium-sized loads, 3 balls should get the job done. For larger loads, you can use 5-7 balls. For extra-large loads, you may want to go as high as 8-12 balls.
What size of dryer balls are best?
The most popular size for a dryer ball is approximately 2.5 inches in diameter, roughly the size of a tennis ball. An oversize dryer ball, on the other hand, can measure 3 inches or more in diameter. The larger the size, the better they can fluff your laundry.
Do dryer balls actually work?
Do they actually work? Short answer: yes they do! Dryer balls can dramatically reduce your drying times (sometimes even by 25%!!), they soften clothes, and, if used correctly, they reduce static in your laundry. Wool dryer balls are especially great, because they work silently (contrary to plastic and rubber balls).
When should you throw out dryer balls?
You will need to replace your Eco Dryer Balls when the felt will start to loosen up. You will see your dryer balls become larger and softer and at some point they will eventually unravel. Keep in mind that this won't happen for a very very long time! Probably 2 to 4 years but it depends on how many loads you do a day.
Should I wet my dryer balls?
If the static problem persist when using wool dryer balls, there is an easy fix. Just spray each ball with water until they are slightly wet or damp. Then throw them in the dryer with your clothes. This will help to create steam in the dryer, which in turn helps to reduce static on clothes.
How often should you wash dryer balls?
Alternatively, don't wait for your dryer balls to start to wear down just wash and refresh them every once in awhile. What is this? I'd recommend recharging them once every 100 loads or so. Most wool dryer ball manufacturers say their dryer balls will last at least 1000 loads.
Can you leave dryer balls in the dryer?
1:023:09But get those dryer balls in there and they help get the air pockets in and it will speed yourMoreBut get those dryer balls in there and they help get the air pockets in and it will speed your drying time I've noticed quite a significant. Size quite a significant change in my drying time.
How many times can you reuse dryer balls?
The Benefits of Using Wool Dryer Balls Each set can be used up to 1000 times, or roughly 2-3 years, depending on how often you do laundry.
How do you recharge wool dryer balls?
An easy way of restoring them is to refresh your dryer balls by washing them in hot water on a gentle cycle and then dry on high heat. This will regenerate the wool and give the dryer balls a fresh recharge.
Are tennis balls as good as dryer balls?
Dryer balls are great, too, and work in a very similar way to tennis balls. The only real main difference between the two is what they're made out of. Dryer balls come in a variety of different materials like wool, plastic, and rubber, whereas standard tennis balls are made of felt or nylon and rubber.
Are some wool dryer balls better than others?
Best overall: Smart Sheep XL Wool Dryer Balls With more than 40,000 five-star reviews, Smart Sheep's wool dryer balls get the overall win. The six-pack of extra-large balls costs just over $16. Made from 100 percent premium New Zealand wool, they're organic and made without any fillers.
Are all wool dryer balls the same?
That being said, not all wool dryer balls are the same, and it's important to pick the right set for you. First, consider how you want your laundry to look, feel, and smell after it's done.
Do dryer balls need to be refreshed?
I'd recommend recharging them once every 100 loads or so. Most wool dryer ball manufacturers say their dryer balls will last at least 1000 loads. This means you'll only need to refresh your dryer balls 10 over their lifetime.
How many times can I use wool dryer balls before they need to be replaced?
Users have determined that on average, both wool and plastic dryer balls last for approximately 1,000 loads of laundry. Depending on how often you...
I want to try dryer balls, but I don’t want to give up the pleasant fragrance that comes from using ...
To transfer scents to your laundry, wool dryer balls are your best option. Simply add a few drops of your favorite essential oils to the balls befo...
About how much drying time per load will I save when using dryer balls?
Although your time savings will vary, experts estimate that using dryer balls with a typical load can cut your drying time by 20% to 45%. Keep in m...
How many dryer ball should I put in a load of laundry?
For the best results, use two to four standard-size dryer balls for each small to mid-size load. For large loads, use four to eight dryer balls. Ke...
10 Best Dryer Balls in 2022: Top Reliable Options - HomeChit
1. Best Price: Wool Dryer Balls - Smart Sheep 6-Pack The best dryer balls are more than just a way to get your clothes cleaner. They also provide excellent relief for aches and pains in the back, shoulders, or neck while providing additional protection from wrinkles caused by frequent washings without using any harsh chemicals!
5 Best Dryer Balls - Nov. 2022 - BestReviews
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. Read more BestReviews spends thousands of hours ...
Benefits of using dryer balls
It may seem too good to be true: toss a few dryer balls in with your laundry, and you’ll get results similar to what you’d get using liquid fabric softener or dryer sheets. But it’s true; dryer balls really do perform for most types of fabrics and load sizes.
Wool dryer balls vs. plastic dryer balls
The two most popular materials for dryer balls are wool and plastic. Both are durable and non-toxic, and they hold up to repeated use. There are pros and cons to each.
Dryer ball features
The best way to compare dryer ball sizes is to think of different types of sports balls: golf balls, tennis balls, baseballs. Wool and plastic dryer balls are available in these sizes, ranging in circumference from about five to ten inches. Baseball-size wool dryer balls (“extra-large” dryer balls) are one of the most popular choices.
Dryer ball prices
Affordable and reusable, dryer balls generally cost between $10 and $30. The priciest sets contain six to eight top-quality organic wool balls and run between $20 and $30. For $10 to $20, you can get a similar set made of lesser-quality wool.
Tips
Although wool dryer balls from sheep-friendly sources are available, they may not be suitable for consumers who prefer not to use animal-based products. If you live a vegan lifestyle, opt for plastic dryer balls instead.
What are dryer balls safe for?
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Dryer Balls. Dryer balls are safe for almost all fabrics, from cotton and hemp to polyester blends and more . With scents being optional, they’re less likely to cause skin irritation for people with sensitive skin than some dryer sheets and fabric softeners.
How much does a dryer ball reduce drying time?
Each dryer ball, which can be reused to complete more than 1,000 loads, will reduce drying time by up to 40 percent. These wool dryer balls are hand-stitched by women in underprivileged communities in Nepal who receive fair wages, an education, and medical care for their work.
What are the Friendsheep dryer balls made of?
They are made from 100 percent pure New Zealand wool, with no additives or other materials.
How long are dryer balls good for?
The best dryer balls are reusable for months to even years, eliminating the need to continually purchase new dryer sheets and fabric softener and cutting down on landfill waste. Choosing a set for your home comes down to three main decisions: material, size, and number.
How long do you leave wool balls in the dryer?
Place the ball in the dryer with a load of dry clothing, towels, or bedding for 10 additional minutes to leave them smelling fresh and fragrant. These pure New Zealand wool dryer balls are also hypoallergenic. They contain zero fillers, additives, or harmful chemicals, and they will not shed their fibers in the dryer.
How big is a dryer ball?
Size. Dryer balls are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and designs. The most popular size for a dryer ball is approximately 2.5 inches in diameter, roughly the size of a tennis ball. An oversize dryer ball, on the other hand, can measure 3 inches or more in diameter. The larger the size, the better they can fluff your laundry.
Do dryer balls shed fibers?
They contain zero fillers, additives, or harmful chemicals, and they will not shed their fibers in the dryer. They are recommended for children and adults with wool sensitivities. This combination product of dryer balls and essential oils can add that lavender scent to more than 1,000 loads.
What are dryer balls?
Dryer balls claim to solve some of your worst laundry problems, such as shortening dry times and keeping your clothes from clumping during the cycle. They contain far fewer chemicals, serve as a natural fabric softener, and are better for the environment than those single-use dryer sheets.
How long do Budieggs dryer balls last?
We found them to be durable and strong, and we believe these dryer balls could last for 1,000 loads or longer . The Budieggs contain no chemicals and claim to be hypoallergenic, which was great for my sensitive skin.
What are feeling fluffy balls made of?
The Feeling Fluffy Wool Dryer balls are in the mid-price range and are also made of organic New Zealand wool. They scored the lowest for drying power and wool quality in our lab tests. They claim to remove flame retardant from children’s clothes but we were unable to test for that.
Is Snugpad dryer ball safe?
SnugPad Wool Dryer Balls. Made of New Zealand wool, the Snugpad is baby-safe and chemical-free. However, they didn’t score many points for quality, durability, or drying power. In our tests, the laundry still felt damp after drying it for 40 minutes.
Does the Homz dryer hold the sheets in place?
The Homz holds the dryer sheet in place perfectly during the cycle. But our lab results didn't stand out during testing and our T-shirt and comforters were still damp when the 40-minute dryer cycle ended.
Can you replace dryer sheets with a thermoplastic dryer ball?
The Homz 2-in-1 was certainly the most unique of all the models we tested. This thermoplastic dryer ball requires that you insert a dryer sheet into it. So, if you're looking to replace your dryer sheets, this is not the product for you.
What are Smart sheep balls made of?
Made of 100 percent New Zealand wool, these balls by Smart Sheep felt soft to the touch and were the most luxurious material that we tested. Smart Sheep is also made by women and minorities who are paid a living wage. They were clearly high-quality and could be used over and over again, despite a few drawbacks.
Why Trust The Spruce?
She's written for The Spruce since 2019. For this article, she prioritized wool dryer balls that were reasonably priced and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’d tried them. To help you find a set of wool dryer balls that meets your needs and preferences, she also vetted picks in a range of different colors and sizes. For more insight, Lindsey spoke with: Katie Brown, owner of Rytina Fine Cleaners; Scott Thomas, Director of Systems at Dryer Vent Wizard; and Elise Hay, founder of Organized Sanctuaries.
How many loads of laundry can you use dryer balls for?
These eco-friendly, chemical-free balls can be used in 1,000 loads of laundry and reduce drying time by 25 percent, according to Grove Collaborative. To get the most effectiveness out of these dryer balls, give them a spritz of water before throwing them in the dryer.
Why do people use dryer balls?
There are a lot of reasons to opt for dryer balls—over time, it’s a cheaper way to soften your clothes than dryer sheets are. You’ll get back time thanks to shorter dryer cycles, too. For many people, a big part of the appeal is the environmental factor: using less energy isn’t just saving for your wallet—it’s also good for the environment. If the environment is at the forefront of your mind, you might wonder about the environmental impact of your dryer balls.
What are Casafield dryer balls?
Casafield’s dryer balls have a three-inch diameter, which is a bit smaller than some other alternatives. Still, reviewers note that these balls—which come with a printed carrying case—are effective at reducing drying time without the need for chemical-based products. The 8 Best Green Laundry Detergents of 2021.
How long to dry a ball in dryer?
Here’s how it works: toss the balls into the dryer along with clean, wet laundry. Run the dryer until everything is dry. Then, dab just three to six drops of essential oil on each of the balls, and place them back in the dryer on a non-heated fluff cycle for 10 minutes. Continue to 5 of 8 below.
What essential oil is in dryer balls?
Instead, many dryer ball users turn to essential oils. These Woolzies organic dryer balls come with a jar of lavender essential oil (other essential oil scents are also available, too). The essential oil jar is small, but that’s because a little goes a long way.
Where are OHOCO dryer balls made?
OHOCO’s large, dense dryer balls are made from all-natural wool from New Zealand sheep —no bleach or other chemicals were used to make them. They're also fragrance-free, which is great for those with sensitive skin.
Our Favorites
Material: New Zealand wool | Amount: Four count | Diameter: 3.5 inches | Lifetime: 10,000 loads
We Also Tested
Public Goods Wool Dryer Balls: In all honesty, you might not be able to beat this price—four balls for $12 is basically unheard of, but that’s kind’ve Public Goods’s M.O. However, when it came time for tougher, heavier loads, these balls didn’t cut back as much on drying time or static as we had hoped.
How We Chose These Products
We did too many loads of laundry to count with ten different brands, tossing in different colors and mixes of clothes, in addition to separate loads for linens.
Our Shopping Checklist
All of the dryer balls on our list are made from wool, specifically New Zealand or U.S. wool. An inherently durable fiber, wool lasts for years, though as a natural product it is susceptible to pilling just as much as our favorite sweaters.
Ask Domino
If you’ve ever questioned how much those thin pieces of polyester (yes, dryer sheets are often made from it!) actually do for your garments and linens, you’re not alone.
The Last Word
Take it from us: When we say swapping dryer sheets for the best dryer balls is one of the best things you can do to cut back on drying times, and for fluffier, softer garments, we mean it! Not only will your energy bill likely look less scary, you may never have to add on extra time to a heat cycle again.
Should I use dryer balls or dryer sheets?
Dryer balls may be a more eco-friendly alternative to dryer sheets, as they can be used many times, as opposed to the one time use of dryer sheets.
What are dryer balls made of?
right choice for your laundry needs. What are dryer balls. and how do they work? Dryer balls are most commonly made of tightly compressed wool, but can also be made of plastic or rubber. They help prevent laundry from clumping together in the dryer by tumbling between layers and separating fabric.
Can you use dryer balls in electric dryer?
Safe for use in both gas and electric dryers, simply place the dryer balls in your dryer at the start of a cycle. Be sure not to overload your dryer with laundry, as this can prevent proper drying and extend drying time.
How long do dryer balls last?
If you've been using dryer balls for a while, you should remember that they typically last up to 1,000 loads of laundry or about two to three years.
Can dryer balls cut down on drying time?
To be honest, I never truly believed that dryer balls—often made of wool—could actually cut down on drying time and help elongate the life ...
