To save on electricity and reduce dryer usage, try using wool dryer balls. They help minimize static and make your clothes softer. How? The felted wool gently rubs against garment fibers, naturally softening them and fluffing them by preventing clumping. Wool dryer balls can be bought online or in stores, but they’re also incredibly easy to make at home. Here’s how you can do it:

What You’ll Need:
– 100% wool yarn (ensure it’s not blended or labeled “superwash”)
– Essential oils (optional)
– Pantyhose or an old pillowcase

About the 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 rub against each other and lock together, forming a tighter mass—this is felting. Only natural animal fibers can felt. You can buy roving wool in skeins from craft stores or yarn suppliers, though it tends to be more expensive. As long as your yarn is 100% wool, any brand will work.

Making the Balls:
Start by winding the yarn a few times around your index and middle fingers. Then slip the yarn loops off and start winding the yarn around the loops. Rotate the ball as you add more yarn, and it will begin to take shape. Make the balls about the size of tennis balls. To secure the end of the yarn, tuck it under several strands or weave it into the middle of the ball to prevent it from coming loose during the felting process.

Felting Process:
Place the yarn balls in an old pillowcase or pantyhose. If using pantyhose, tie a knot between each ball to create separate compartments. You might experience some unraveling, but you can easily cut off any loose ends afterward. Toss the balls into the washing machine and run them through a hot cycle two or three times, preferably with a load of towels or other laundry. Then, place them in the dryer with the laundry and let them dry. Once done, remove them from the bag. Your wool balls should now be felted—fuzzy and solid without any unraveling.

Using Wool Dryer Balls:
To use, simply toss the felted wool dryer balls into your dryer with wet clothes. If you want a scented touch, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the balls before placing them in the dryer. When not in use, store the balls in a bowl or container. Enjoy your soft, static-free laundry!