If you want to save on electricity and reduce dryer use, try using wool dryer balls. They help cut down on static and make your clothes softer. The felted wool gently rubs against the fabric, naturally softening and fluffing your clothes by preventing them from clumping together. You can buy wool dryer balls online or in stores, but they’re also really easy to make yourself. Here’s how you can do it:

Supplies
– 100% wool yarn (no blends or “superwash”)
– Essential oils (optional)
– Pantyhose or an old pillowcase

About Wool
Only 100% wool will felt. If you’ve ever accidentally shrunk a wool sweater in the wash, you’ve seen felting in action. When wool fibers are exposed to hot water and agitation, they lock together to form a tighter mass. This process only works with natural animal fibers. You can buy roving wool in skeins, which felts better but costs more. Any brand of 100% wool yarn will work.

Making the Ball
Start by winding the yarn around your index and middle finger a few times. Slip the loops off your fingers and wind the yarn around the loops. Rotate the ball as you wind so it starts forming a round shape. Keep winding until the ball is about the size of a tennis ball. Tuck the end of the yarn securely into the ball to keep it from unraveling during felting.

Felting the Ball
Place the yarn balls into an old pillowcase or pantyhose. If using pantyhose, tie a knot between each ball to keep them separate. You can also just toss them into a pillowcase, though there might be some unraveling. Run the balls through a hot wash cycle two or three times, preferably with a load of towels. Then, dry them in the dryer with the rest of the laundry. Once done, take them out of the bag, and you’ll have felted wool balls.

Using Wool Dryer Balls
To use, just toss the wool dryer balls into the dryer with your wet clothes. If you like scented laundry, add a few drops of your favorite essential oils to the balls before drying. Store the balls in a bowl when not in use. Enjoy your static-free, soft clothes!