Dryer Sheets vs Dryer Balls—What’s The Difference?
Some individuals can’t picture laundry day without dryer sheets, while others swear by reusable dryer balls, and some may not be familiar with either option. Have you ever wondered what sets them apart and which one you should use?
Surprisingly, the debate between dryer sheets and dryer balls is quite contentious in the laundry community. Read on to discover the advantages and disadvantages of each, helping you choose the best solution for your needs.
Dryer Sheets vs Dryer Balls—What’s The Difference?
The Pros and Cons of Dryer Sheets
Single-use dryer sheets are designed to eliminate static, minimize cling, enhance fragrance, and soften clothing. Plus, they’re incredibly convenient—just toss a few into the dryer.
However, dryer sheets are becoming less popular due to significant drawbacks, such as:
- Strong artificial fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin
- A chemical residue that diminishes towel absorbency and affects the effectiveness of flame-retardant fabrics
- A sticky residue left behind in your dryer
Environmentally, dryer sheets are also less sustainable. Since they are not reusable, they ultimately contribute to landfill waste.
The Pros and Cons of Dryer Balls
Reusable dryer balls also help reduce static and cling, but they come with distinct advantages compared to dryer sheets. Some benefits of dryer balls include:
- Accelerating drying time by separating garments
- Collecting lint during the drying process
- Lasting for hundreds, and sometimes over a thousand, dryer cycles
On the downside, dryer balls don’t impart any additional fragrance to your laundry and may make dryer cycles louder than usual.
However, they score higher in terms of eco-friendliness. Being reusable, they contribute to less waste and help decrease the time your dryer needs to run.
Should You Use Dryer Sheets or Dryer Balls?
If no one in your household is sensitive to fragrances, dryer sheets are typically safe to use. While many laundry experts caution against them due to the risk of chemical residues damaging your garments, if softness is your primary concern, dryer sheets may be your best bet!
For those who prioritize eco-friendly laundry practices and want to avoid potential damage to their clothes, dryer balls are the safer choice. They’re also better suited for individuals with sensitive skin and households with lint-prone pets.
Concerned about sacrificing softness with dryer balls? You can easily achieve the same level of softness as dryer sheets by adding a splash of white vinegar to each dryer load!
Pro Tip: While standard dryer balls are available for around $10, you can also create your own DIY version.
Now that you’re informed about the dryer sheets versus dryer balls debate, you can approach laundry day with confidence!
If you need dry cleaning or wash-and-fold services, we are ready to assist. Just search for “WhiteIce Laundry and Drycleaners” to find our location, or visit our contact page.
