Wool dryer balls are a natural and eco-friendly alternative to traditional dryer sheets. They can help reduce drying time, soften clothes, and eliminate static cling, all while being reusable and chemical-free. Making wool dryer balls at home is easy and requires only a few materials. In this article, we will go over the steps to make your own wool dryer balls.
Materials:
- 100% wool yarn
- Scissors
- Pantyhose or knee-high stockings
- Washer and dryer
Instructions:
- Start by wrapping the wool yarn around your fingers. The more yarn you use, the larger your dryer ball will be. To make a medium-sized dryer ball, wrap the yarn around your fingers about 20-25 times. Cut the yarn from the ball and tuck in the loose end.
- Roll the yarn ball tightly in the palm of your hand to make it compact. Keep rolling until the ball is firm and holds its shape.
- Repeat steps 1 and 2 until you have made enough dryer balls for your laundry load. You will need at least three dryer balls for a small load and up to six for a large load.
- Place the dryer balls into the leg of the pantyhose or knee-high stocking, tying a knot in between each ball. This will keep the balls from unraveling while in the washer and dryer.
- Wash the dryer balls in hot water with a mild detergent. This will help to “felt” the wool, which means to make it compact and tight. Once washed, put the pantyhose or stocking with the balls in the dryer on high heat.
- Once the dryer cycle is complete, remove the balls from the pantyhose or stocking. They should be felted and firm to the touch.
- Use the wool dryer balls in place of traditional dryer sheets by placing them in the dryer with your laundry. They will help reduce drying time, soften clothes, and eliminate static cling. You can also add a few drops of essential oils to the dryer balls to add a fresh scent to your laundry.
Cleaning the Wool Dryer Balls: To clean the wool dryer balls, simply put them in the washer and dryer with your laundry. They can also be hand washed in warm water with mild soap and air-dried.
In conclusion, making wool dryer balls is an easy and eco-friendly alternative to traditional dryer sheets. By following these simple steps, you can make your own dryer balls and enjoy softer, static-free laundry without the use of harmful chemicals.