An American living in the United Kingdom has found that dryer balls significantly improve laundry results compared to traditional dryer sheets, a finding particularly relevant given the differences in laundry practices between the two countries. The author, seeking solutions for slow drying times, wrinkles, and static in a combined washer-dryer machine common in British homes, conducted a comparative test.
The Experiment: Balls vs. Sheets
The test focused on determining whether dryer balls or laundry sheets could enhance the drying process. The author avoids liquid fabric softeners due to concerns about their impact on sensitive skin and certain fabrics like athletic wear.
Dryer balls, specifically a set of four wool balls, were tested first. The results were immediate: clothes dried faster (reduced from 90 minutes to an hour), with fewer wrinkles and no static. This outcome was a marked improvement over standard drying cycles.
Laundry sheets, chosen with a lavender scent due to limited unscented options, yielded no noticeable performance benefits. The drying time remained consistent at 90 minutes, and the only change was a slight fragrance, alongside the added waste of disposable sheets.
Towel Test: A Key Difference
British combination dryers are notorious for producing rough, wrinkled towels, unlike the fluffy results achieved in American tumble dryers. The author found that dryer balls improved towel texture, making them softer and reducing drying time from two hours to 90 minutes. This result confirms the balls’ effectiveness across various laundry types.
Conclusion
The experiment clearly demonstrates that dryer balls are superior to laundry sheets in terms of both performance and waste reduction. The author has adopted dryer balls as a permanent part of their laundry routine, citing faster drying times, reduced wrinkles, and a more eco-friendly approach as key advantages.
