Before we begin, it’s important to understand how these nifty balls of wool actually work. Wool dryer balls are our favorite way of cutting down the drying time of the laundry — after all, they can help you save up to 30% of electricity for each load.
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How exactly do wool dryer balls work?
Made from 100% organic sheep’s wool, they’re made to bounce around inside your dryer, creating air pockets that allow the moisture from your clothes to escape quickly, thus speeding up the drying time. Because they’re naturally moisture-wicking, these woollen balls absorb water as they go, too. And since they are 100% natural and organic, they don’t shed micro-plastics or contribute to pollution like dryer sheets.
Why shouldn’t you use dryer sheets? Dryer sheets are detrimental to your dryer due to the residue they leave behind, which can clog the lint filter, restrict airflow, and potentially cause overheating or fire hazards. This residue can also coat the dryer’s sensors, interfering with its ability to properly dry clothes. Instead, they speed up the drying process in order to save on electricity, money, and environmental impact.
How long to they last?
Wool dryer balls can typically be used for up to 1,000 loads. That is a pretty long time in laundry years. But if they’re starting to attract lint, look a little bit unraveled or you notice static electricity in your freshly dried clothes, you might be wondering if it’s time to replace them.
How can you tell it’s time to replace or revive them?
Lingering odors: If the dryer balls are retaining odors from your laundry, they need to be refreshed or replaced.
Matted or flattened appearance: Wool dryer balls can become compressed and matted over time and this can make them less effective.
Loose fibers: If you notice pieces of wool starting to come off, it’s a sign that the balls are worn out.
Decreased fluffing power:If the dryer balls are not effectively fluffing your clothes, it’s likely time for a replacement.
Why should you refresh your wool dryer balls?
After heavy use, the wool in your dryer balls can start drying out. This means they become less useful at absorbing moisture and therefore in need of a bit of TLC. By caring for your wool dryer balls, you’ll ensure they last even longer — a money-saving trick for your laundry and a nice little boost for the environment, too.
How to revive wool dryer balls
Step one: Wash your wool dryer balls
Lint or fiber build-up on your dryer balls can lead to them being less effective than usual. The best way to address this is by running your dryer balls through the washing machine on a gentle cycle using hot water. Put them in a sock or mesh washing bag to protect them, throw them in with other laundry, and off you go.
Step two: Dry them on a high heat
Once they’ve been washed, the next step is to throw them into your dryer on a normal cycle. Because they’re made of absorbent wool, they might end up being quite heavy post-wash, and might take a long time to dry. Keep an eye on them and ensure they’re fully dried before you take them out of the machine. You can also air dry them, but again, it will take a long time due to the amount of water they can hold.
Step three: Use them on your next drying cycle
Your drying balls should be ready to throw into your next batch of laundry. For that subtle touch of fragrance, don’t forget to add a couple of drops of your favorite essential oils to the balls before you do. This is a non-toxic and environmentally-friendly way of giving your clothes that perfect just-laundered scent!
If you are looking for a good, environmentally safe laundry detergent, ACTIVE has several great options.
ACTIVE Enzyme Laundry Booster and Fresh Linen Laundry Detergent Sheets
ACTIVE Enzyme Laundry Booster and Active Wear Laundry Detergent
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent Sheets Eco Washing Strips – 80 Loads
ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent Odor Remover
What can you do with old dryer balls?
You’ve revived your dryer balls several times but it’s finally time to say goodbye. How can you dispose of them in an environmentally safe way? Because wool dryer balls are completely natural, they will biodegrade in your compost bin, compost heap, or even just in the soil in your back garden.
Another fun idea, if you’re good with crafts, you can turn the wool balls into a toy for your pet or use them as scented balls to keep your clothes smelling fresh when stored in your closet or dresser. Just add a few drops of essential oils to them before placing them with your clothes. You can also use them to protect your favorite blankets or quilts from insects with peppermint oil.
Final Thoughts
After heavy use, the wool in your dryer balls will start drying out themselves. This means they become less useful at absorbing moisture and therefore in need of a bit of TLC. By caring for your wool dryer balls, you’ll ensure they last even longer — a money-saving trick for your laundry and a nice little boost for the environment, too.
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