I read about these alternatives to static
cling sheets and other items you can put into the dryer to help
eliminate static cling, so I went to Amazon and purchased set of
six. Hardly necessary as they seem to almost last forever. In fact
some estimates are that they will last a few years depending on
how many loads you do, and they are rated for up to a thousand
loads (more than I will do in the next 15 years). As a bonus, the
description says you can add essential oils to the ball for making
clothes smell a bit better.
In order to boost the overall effectiveness of dryers, wool dryer
balls reduce drying time, fluff and soften fabrics, reduce
wrinkles, reduce static cling, are better for your skin, and the
environment. A set of 3 is a good start and they will save you
between 40% in a small load to 25% in a large load. It increases
with the more dryer balls you use. They get in-between the towels
and clothing to keep items from sticking together while damp. Some
people use tennis balls for the same effect, but they do not last
as long.
Consumer reports says that liquids in the wash cycle do better at
reducing cling than fabric softener sheets in the dryer. It also
debunked the idea that fabric softeners, especially liquids, leave
towels far less absorbent.
Incidentally, I tried the plastic dryer balls, but they snagged
a few items, so I promptly ditched them. Also, plastic dryer
balls will eventually soften and lose their ability to soften
and dry clothes. Aluminum balls also reduce static, but are bit
rougher on delicate clothes.