Why aren’t wool dryer balls softening my laundry like dryer sheets?
#1
I’m trying to switch to a more sustainable laundry routine and bought some wool dryer balls, but I’m not sure I’m using them right. They don’t seem to soften the clothes or reduce static the way the chemical sheets did, and my towels come out feeling stiff. Has anyone else had this experience and figured out the trick?
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#2
Yeah I tried the wool dryer balls too. I noticed they helped a little with fluff on everyday shirts, but towels stayed a bit stiff, especially on longer cycles. My tweaks were simple: run on a medium heat setting, don't pack the drum full, and pull things a touch early so they aren't overdried. I also started adding a splash of white vinegar in the rinse every so often, which softened things a bit and cut static. Still not miracle results, though.
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#3
Mine did almost nothing for static. I guess it depends on fabric type; towels tend to be stiffer no matter what. I tried using fewer balls and letting the dryer run a normal cycle, but the difference was small. I still like the idea and plan to keep using them for cotton tees and jeans, where I notice the fluff more.
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#4
Sometimes I wonder if the problem isn't the balls but the dryer itself. My vent seemed clogged and the drum heated oddly, which would make towels feel rough no matter what. I cleaned the vent and changed to a gentler cycle, and the towels softened a bit, but not exactly due to the balls.
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#5
Would it be the towels or the dryer settings?
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