Fun Fact: The average family does 8–10 loads of laundry each week. Yes, each week. That’s a lot of laundry. And who doesn’t love the feeling of freshly cleaned clothes that have come right out of the dryer? When it comes to drying the laundry, do you reach for dryer balls or dryer sheets? You may be asking, “Does it really matter?” The answer is, “Yes.” To help you find the right fit for your laundry routine, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of dryer sheets and dryer balls—including a closer look at wool dryer balls.
Dryer Sheets
Maybe dryer sheets remind you of childhood—warm towels, fresh scents, and soft clothes right out of the dryer. They’re easy to toss in and get the job done, but they do have a few drawbacks to keep in mind.
Dryer Sheet Pros:
- Softens fabrics
- Helps reduce static cling
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Effective in any size of your laundry load
Cons of Dryer Sheets:
- Often made with chemicals that may irritate sensitive skin
- Not reusable and not eco-friendly
- Can leave residue inside your dryer
- May cause oily-looking stains on clothes
- Single-use only
- Doesn’t reduce drying time
Dryer Balls
Wool dryer balls are a popular natural alternative to dryer sheets—especially for those looking to cut waste or avoid chemical additives. And yes, they really do work!
Pros Of Dryer Balls:
- Made of all-natural, sustainable materials
- Can help reduce drying time by up to 25%, saving you energy
- Helps clothes dry more evenly, minimizing heat damage
- Great for reducing static and wrinkles
- Reusable for up to 1,000 loads
Cons Of Dryer Balls:
- Can make some noise bouncing around in the dryer
- Wool may shed over time and end up in your lint trap
- May not be as effective with very large loads
Wondering, “Are dryer balls better than dryer sheets?” It really depends on your goals—if you’re after a natural, reusable option that helps lower energy use, dryer balls (especially wool ones) are a great way to go.
Let Dependable Cleaners Handle It for You
Still debating between dryer balls vs sheets? Let us make it easy.
With our Wash & Fold Services, your clothes will come back cleaned, sanitized, and ready to put away—no laundry day debates required. Just toss your items into the white Dependable Cleaners bag and leave the rest to us.
Even better? We offer free pickup and delivery service so your freshly folded clothes will be waiting at your door—no matter which drying method you prefer.
Dryer Balls vs Dryer Sheets: Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use dryer balls and dryer sheets together?
Technically, yes—you can use both at the same time. However, it’s usually not necessary. Dryer balls already help reduce static and soften clothes, and using dryer sheets too may cancel out some of the eco-friendly or chemical-free benefits. Most people find one or the other does the job just fine.
What’s the safest option for people with sensitive skin?
If you have sensitive skin, dryer balls—especially unscented wool dryer balls—are typically a better choice. Unlike dryer sheets, they don’t contain synthetic fragrances or harsh chemicals that can cause irritation. They’re a natural alternative to dryer sheets and a gentle solution for allergy-prone households.
Are dryer balls bad for your dryer?
No, dryer balls are safe to use in most dryers. In fact, they can help protect your clothes and dryer by reducing drying time. Just be aware that some users find the noise bothersome, especially in metal drum dryers.
Can you add scent to dryer balls?
Yes! You can add a few drops of essential oils (like lavender or lemon) to wool dryer balls for a natural scent boost. Let them dry completely before tossing them into the dryer to avoid oil spots on clothing.
