Dryer sheets cost about five dollars per box.  Over the course of five years, that’s about about $50 and they just end up in the trash when you’re done.  That’s why wool dryer balls are a cheaper alternative.  They can last up to five years, will dry your clothes faster, and don’t add chemicals to your laundry.  Makayla Jordan-Diemler, an environmental advocate, has been making dryer balls for several years.  She says they soak up the moisture in the air more efficiently and evenly distribute it back into their air, which reduces static cling.  This action makes your clothes dry much faster and leads to fewer wrinkles.  If you want to take advantage of this alternative, then follow these steps:

You will need: 

100% wool yarn or wool roving

Pantyhose or knee-high stockings

Essential oils (optional)

Scissors

1. Wind the yarn into a ball

Wind the yarn around your fingers a couple of times to start your ball. When the ball is about the size of your fist, cut the end of the string and tuck it into the ball.

2. Dab the essential oil around the outside of the ball

If you want to add a scent to your dryer balls you can put essential oils on them. “This is totally optional, but I like to add lavender to mine to make my laundry smell good. It adds an extra touch,” says Jordan-Diemler.

3. Put the ball inside the toe of the stockings and tie a knot 

Secure the knot against the ball. Jordan-Diemler says this is important because this gives the ball its shape. Skipping this step will result in a wet clump of wool in your washing machine. If you want to do more than one ball put it inside the stocking and tie a knot against the ball again.

5. Put the balls through the washer on high heat and dry them on high heat

If you don’t want to waste water then you can throw towels or sheets in with the balls. “Sometimes you will have to repeat this step again or even two more times, depending on the wool you use. I did it twice to make sure the wool was bound tightly together so it’ll last longer,” says Jordan-Diemler.

6. Cut the balls out of the stocking

Now you have your own set of dryer balls! To get the best results in your laundry use three or four balls for an average load.

(Photos by Annah Baize)