As winter approaches and the days get shorter, the tumble dryer always starts to get a bit more use. Wool dryer balls reduce the amount of time things take to get dry (thereby also reducing energy use) and are a fantastic alternative to dryer sheets and fabric softeners. They soften clothes and towels, reduce static, and speed up drying time.
While you can buy wool dryer balls ready made, making your own is a fun and rewarding DIY project. Here’s how:
Materials Needed:
- 100% wool yarn (avoid blends with synthetic fibers)
- Scissors
- Old pantyhose or stockings
- Essential oils (optional, for fragrance)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Begin by wrapping the wool yarn around your fingers or a small object, such as a ping pong ball, to form a small ball. The size can vary depending on your preference, but aim for a diameter of around 7-10cm. Cut the yarn and tuck the loose end into the ball.
- Repeat the process of wrapping and forming balls until you have enough to fill your pantyhose or stockings. Generally, three to six balls are sufficient for a standard load of laundry.
- Place one ball into the pantyhose or stocking and secure it with a knot or tie. Add the remaining balls, spacing them out to allow room for each to move freely.
- Put the pantyhose or stocking with the balls into your washing machine. Run a hot water cycle and then a cold water rinse cycle. This helps to felt the wool and bind the fibers together.
- After the washing machine cycle, transfer the pantyhose or stocking to your dryer. Dry them on high heat until the balls are completely dry.
- Once dry, remove the balls from the pantyhose or stocking. They should be compact and firm.
- For an optional touch, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to each ball before you put them in the dryer. This will give your laundry a pleasant fragrance when using the dryer balls. (Personally I love the smell of Eucalyptus through the house when the towels are drying in winter.)
- Your wool dryer balls are now ready to use! Simply toss them in the dryer with your wet laundry, and enjoy the benefits of softer clothes, reduced static, and faster drying times.
Making your own clothes dryer balls is a simple and cost-effective way to enhance your laundry routine. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can create your own eco-friendly and reusable dryer balls. Not only will you save money and reduce waste, but you’ll also enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you’ve created a sustainable solution for softer, static-free laundry. Give it a try and experience the benefits of these homemade wool dryer balls for yourself!
