Doing laundry is a never-ending chore. As tedious as it can be, most people want to make sure they are getting their clothes as clean as possible. When it comes to drying your laundry, two popular products promise to get your clothes clean and fresh: dryer balls and dryer sheets. But which one is really better for your laundry and wallet? Here is an in-depth look at the pros and cons of each to help you decide.
Cost
When looking at dryer balls vs dryer sheets, cost is an important factor for many. Dryer sheets are disposable, meaning you need to continuously buy new ones. The cost per load using a dryer sheet is typically 2 to 5 cents. If you do several loads of laundry per week, this can add up. On the other hand, a set of wool or plastic dryer balls can be purchased for $10 to $30 and will last for hundreds of loads. Over time, dryer balls are the more economical choice.
However, the upfront cost of dryer balls can seem high if you are used to only paying for disposable dryer sheets. But when you calculate the cost per load over the lifespan of dryer balls, they save money in the long run. Doing the math of how often you do laundry can help determine if and when dryer balls will start saving you money.
Convenience
When it comes to convenience, dryer sheets seem to have an advantage. Opening up a new dryer sheet and tossing it in with your wet laundry is simple. Wool or plastic dryer balls require a bit more effort as you have to actively remember to remove them from the dryer and put them back in each load.
However, the convenience factor really depends on your habits. If you frequently forget small items like dryer balls, sheets may be better for you. But for those who can develop a routine of retrieving balls from the dryer after each cycle, it’s only a minor inconvenience. Placing dryer balls at the door of your dryer as a visual reminder can help.
Additionally, many prefer dryer balls because they shorten drying time. This means you have to run fewer cycles to get your clothes dry, saving time and energy costs. So dryer balls can offer convenience in their own way.
Effectiveness at Reducing Static
One of the main purposes of dryer sheets is to reduce static cling on clothes. Many prefer the feel of laundry dried with sheets compared to harsh static. Dryer sheets work by coating fabrics with a thin layer of chemicals and fragrance. This coating neutralizes the electric charge that causes cling.
Wool dryer balls are also effective at reducing static because wool is naturally absorbent. As the balls bounce around, they help separate clothes fibers, allowing moisture and lint to escape. This reduces friction and static buildup. Plastic balls are less reliable when it comes to static, but adding a few wool ones helps.
Overall, dryer sheets perform slightly better if completely eliminating static is your top priority. But dryer balls also do a decent job, especially when used with wool ones. Just avoid overloading your dryer if using balls and make sure to use fabric softener in the washer to maximize static reduction.
Softening Clothes
In addition to reducing static, dryer sheets are known for leaving clothes feeling softer. This is again achieved through the coating of chemicals and fragrances adhered to fabrics. Dryer balls on their own do not add softening chemicals.
However, balls can help make fabrics feel softer by lifting and separating them as they tumble. This allows more air flow which helps reduce stiffness. Using dryer balls with wool yarn softeners can also help soften fabrics. Just dampen yarn balls with your favorite liquid fabric softener before drying.
If having ultra soft laundry is your main goal, dryer sheets perform better. But for many, the softening effect of dryer balls is sufficient, especially when paired with proper use of fabric softener. One tip is to use dryer balls for most loads but use the occasional dryer sheet for loads you want extra soft.
Scent
One of the main reasons people love dryer sheets is the irresistible scent they leave behind on laundry. The combination of synthetic fragrances and anti-static chemicals applied to fabrics makes clothes smell fresh and clean. However, some worry about breathing in these strong fragrances, especially for those with sensitivities. There are fragrance free dryer sheet options available though.
Dryer balls themselves are odorless. But as mentioned, you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil onto wool dryer balls before drying for natural fragrance. Another option is to simply use scented detergent or fabric softener in your washer to make clothes smell nice.
If you like your laundry strongly scented, traditional dryer sheets are the way to go. But if you prefer more mild or natural scents, scented detergent plus dryer balls can achieve this nicely.
Environmental Impact
For many consumers, the environmental impact of products is an important consideration. When comparing dryer sheets versus dryer balls, dryer balls are better for the environment.
Dryer sheets are single use products that end up in landfills. The chemicals and fragrances used on them also get deposited on fabrics and released into the air. Although many brands now use more natural ingredients, residue still gets left behind on clothes and emitted through vents.
Dryer balls are reusable for years, producing less waste. They help freshen clothes through mechanical action rather than chemical coatings. And natural wool balls and plastic ones avoid any questionable ingredients. Using dryer balls is a simple way to reduce your laundry’s environmental footprint.
The Verdict
When weighing all the factors, dryer balls come out as the preferable choice for many reasons. Although the upfront cost is higher, they save money long-term. The minor inconvenience of retrieving them is outweighed by time savings from reduced drying time.
While dryer sheets are a bit better at reducing static and softening, dryer balls also perform these functions sufficiently. And balls avoid the questionable chemical ingredients of many sheets. For those wanting a natural fragrance, essential oils on wool balls does the trick.
Perhaps most importantly, dryer balls are a more eco-friendly option since they can be reused for years. While dryer sheets work well, the amount of waste produced makes balls the greener option.
The best approach may be using dryer balls for most loads, but relying on the occasional dryer sheet when you want an extra softening boost or scent. And if you strongly dislike static, you can still use sheets on especially clingy fabric loads. With a bit of experimenting, you can find the right balance of dryer balls versus sheets for your particular laundry needs.
No matter which you choose, both dryer balls and sheets are effective products for softening fabrics, reducing static, and adding nice scents to your laundry loads. By understanding the pros and cons of each, you can make the best choice for your home, family, and budget. With this breakdown of the differences, you now have all the information you need to decide which option is right for you.
