There are few things in life more pleasant than wearing warm and soft clothes straight from the dryer. The friction-free softness of clean and dry clothes against your skin is possibly the most comfortable thing imaginable.
Many people spend huge amounts of money every year on dryer sheets to achieve the optimal laundry outcome. However, dryer balls have been around for a long time, and are an eco- and budget-friendly alternative to the usual chemicals.
Fabric softener is detrimental to your wallet. It can amount to tens of dollars every week. While many see it as a necessity, there are cheaper alternatives. In addition, it is also harmful to health.
This is because fabric softener coats clothes with harmful chemicals. This includes one called QUATS (quaternary ammonium compounds) which is also linked to asthma and some cancers too.
In reality, though, thousands of chemicals make up the fragrance in your softener, and many are absorbed through your skin and into your body.
In addition, we live in a time where the natural world and our planet is in dire need of an overhaul in our lifestyles. Pollution of every kind is choking the planet, and fabric softener and dryer sheets are one more unnecessary luxury that many can do without. The chemicals in this product contribute to pollution in and outside your home.
This is where dryer balls come in. If you are an avid knitter and lover of yarn, then it is a no-brainer that dryer balls will solve the problem of how to achieve the soft and static-free clothes without fabric softener or dryer sheets.
Dryer balls work by moving between the clothes and preventing them from clumping together. The balls retain the heat while the dryer is working, and so they also speed up the drying process.
Due to this, not only will you save money on dryer sheets and softener, but also on how long your dryer runs. Dryer balls can also make excellent gifts to add to any hamper.
So, what ultimately is the best yarn for dryer balls? In general, the best type of yarn for dryer balls is wool. Wool dryer balls are natural, biodegradable and help dry laundry quickly. It also felts which is necessary to achieve the optimal dryer ball.
Read on for some factors to consider, frequently asked questions, as well as reviews of best yarns for dryer balls..
Shopping for Yarns for Dryer Balls: Factors to Consider
1. Allergies
One of the things to consider is whether you or any household members are allergic to certain yarns. Some people can be allergic to wool. And if this is the case, alternative yarns may need to be considered.
2. Eco-friendly
Since dryer sheets and fabric softener are full of chemicals, they are detrimental both to human health and to the environment.
Thus, if reducing your waste and carbon footprint is one of your motivators in knitting dryer balls, then natural yarns are your friend. You can be sure that your worsted wool dryer ball is perfectly biodegradable and will not be around to litter the planet for centuries to come.
3. Cost
Unlike a large pattern like a blanket or jumper, dryer balls need relatively less yarn. This means you will need to purchase a smaller number of skeins to purchase the job.
4. Texture
Your dryer balls will be rolling around in the washing machine with your clothes. This means that any rough edges could potentially damage clothing, especially if it is fine or expensive. Smooth yarns will, therefore, give you the best chances of creating beautiful, rounded, soft and smooth dryer balls.
FAQs
1. Are wool dryer balls better than plastic dryer balls?
Dryer balls will help your clothes dry while preventing the static. Wool dryer balls are heavier and so move through the clothes more easily. This makes them dry more quickly. In addition, they are biodegradable, which is an advantage since the planet is struggling with the overproduction of synthetic material that does not decompose.
2. Is it possible to make dryer balls with acrylic yarn?
When it comes to dryer balls, wool or other natural yarns that felt well are best. However, you can make the core from cheaper and more acrylic yarn, and save the expensive wool for the outer yarn.
3. How do I make a dryer ball?
To make a dryer ball wrap the yarn around itself tightly a couple of times. You then fold the yarn over and begin wrapping into a ball.
Alternate the sides evenly to ensure you have a spherical ball shape. Continue rolling until the skein is complete. You will need to wash the balls a few times in hot water to ensure they are evenly and appropriately felted. This helps them stay intact and absorb the static from the clothes during the drying process.
4. How long do dryer balls last?
According to majority experience, dryer balls usually last around 1,000 loads. You will know that your dryer balls need replacing because they will start to look worn out or ready to fall apart.
5. Are there any downsides to using dryer balls?
The advantages of using dryer balls outweigh the disadvantages. This is because they speed up the drying process and absorb the static that would otherwise end up on your clothes. The only real negative is that they need space to move around and so you can’t fill up your dryer to the maximum.
6. Can dryer balls make my laundry smell pleasant?
If you add a few drops of essential oils to your dryer balls, you can enjoy the added benefit of beautiful scented clothing without using any chemicals. Simply add a few drops of essential oils to your dryer balls around 10 minutes before using them. Throw them into the dryer with your washing and enjoy the luxury of beautifully scented clothing.
The Best Yarn For Dryer Balls
1. Knit Picks Wool of The Andes Worsted Weight Yarn
This worsted wool yarn felts to make the perfect dryer ball. It is sturdy and durable, making dryer balls that will withstand hundreds of washes. The neutral color reduces the risk of the color running.
In addition, the soft wool is lovely to work with, and the end result will make excellent gifts. The skeins are rather small, however, and will require multiple skeins for multiple dryer balls.
Pros
- Neutral color
- Soft on hands
- Felts well
Cons
- Skeins a little small
2. 100% Baby Alpaca Yarn Wool Set of 3 Skeins Worsted Weight
This beautiful, luxury yarn is versatile for a wide variety of projects. It is beautifully soft on the hands, making it pleasant to work with. is hypoallergenic which is an added plus for those with sensitivities.
Dryer balls made with this yarn will be built to last and will make splendid gifts for friends and family. Sometimes, however, the quality is reflected in the price tag, and this yarn is a little on the expensive side.
Pros
- Easy to work with
- Soft on hands
- Luxury yarn
- Elegant black
Cons
- A little pricey
3. Patons Classic Wool Yarn
This is a beautiful aquarium colored yarn that will make attractive dryer balls. Patons is a trusted brand too, so you can be assured you will receive quality products at a reasonable price.
Tried and tested for dryer balls, this wool felts excellently and will make the process of making dryer balls fun and easy.
Pros
- Attractive aqua color
- Easy to work with
- quality
Cons
- A little pricey
4. Alaska Pure Worsted Wool Yarn
This beautiful yarn comes in a variety of colors at an affordable price. Dryer balls made with this yarn will be budget-friendly. You will be able to make plenty to keep for yourself and also gift to family, friends and loved ones.
The wool is high quality, soft on the hands, and easy to work with. The colors are generally bold, which may be problematic if you prefer neutrals.
Pros
- Variety of colors
- Soft on the hands
- Budget-friendly
Cons
5. Wool Yarn Knitting Supplies, Natural Wool Yarn
This beautiful, attractive rustic orange yarn is made from natural wool. It is luxuriously soft and easy to work with. In addition, it is also eco-friendly and organic which are added plus points for the conscious consumer.
This wool felts quickly and effectively, making it ideal for dryer balls. It could be considered a little expensive, but you can be assured you will end up with effective and durable dryer balls that will make your laundry process smoother and quicker.
Pros
- Attractive color
- Soft and easy to work with
- Durable
- Felts well
Cons
- A little pricey
Conclusion
Instead of buying dryer sheets and fabric softener every week, making your own dryer balls is the more eco- and budget-friendly option. Fabric softener is full of chemicals that not only penetrate your clothing and skin but also pollute the environment.
Wool-made dryer balls will pass through laundry making it dry quickly. With a few drops of essential oils, they can also leave your laundry smelling of your favorite scents.
Well-made dryer balls can be expected to last up to 1000 washes and so you can be sure to get a good return out of any yarn you invest in to make dryer balls.
