What are Wool Dryer Balls and How Do They Work?
When tossed in the dryer, wool dryer balls lift and separate clothes, increasing airflow and reducing drying time. By absorbing moisture, they create a more humid drying environment, which helps to reduce static.
Our wool is undyed, so the difference between our wool colors is simply the breed of the sheep. There’s no difference in performance and no risk of color transferring onto your linens while drying.
Because all colors tumble equally well, many customers like to choose their favourite shade based on their aesthetic. (Although most like to mix them up!)
Based on our tests (and customer feedback), Moss Creek Wool Dryer balls will last for 1000+ loads.
In fact, our wool dryer balls often go missing before they have a chance to wear out. Sometimes they’ll be abducted by a pet or elope with a missing sock. Another place they like to hide is inside shirt sleeves and pants legs. So look there first before you restock!
Wool dryer balls need to work together to create chaos in your dryer and promote the appropriate airflow. So you need a minimum of 3 (hence why we sell them in sets of 3). For large dryers and heavier loads, we suggest using 6 or more.
Most of the Lanolin found in wool is removed during milling and felting. Initially, the fleece goes through a scouring process to remove dirt and oils. The felting process includes washing hot water with a natural detergent to remove traces of lanolin. (We use Forever New Fabric Wash.)
That all said, make sure to listen to your instincts. If you think wool dryer balls irritate your skin, please stop using them.
Yes! In addition to faster drying, wool balls are a natural way to add a gentle scent to your laundry.
Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil or perfume to the dryer balls. If you are worried about the oil staining your clothes, rub the wool balls together to absorb the oils before tossing them in the dryer.
Citrus blends and lavender are the most popular scents — but we encourage you to experiment to find your signature favourite! And let us know what you come up with! In our experience, the added scent will last over 2-3 loads, depending on the temperature of your dryer.
What Causes Static + How to Reduce It
Static cling is caused by one or a combo of the following:
1. Mixed Fabric Loads – synthetics like nylon and polyester generate static from friction as they tumble in the dryer.
2. Over Drying – Try to remove your clothes from the dryer just before they are completely dry. (Dryers with a moisture meter that shuts down automatically are ideal for this strategy.)
TIP: If you hang your shirts and pants immediately after removing them from the dryer, the wrinkles fall out and often need little or no ironing!
3. Dry Atmosphere – Static cling tends to be a bigger issue in winter when there’s less humidity. Unfortunately, there’s nothing we can suggest to combat that — but dampening your wool balls before adding them to your dryer can help!
Wool balls absorb moisture from fabrics during drying to maintain a more humid environment. This helps reduce static build-up. In dryer climates, try dampening your wool balls before adding them to your dryer.
Here are some tips we’ve collected from customers over the years… we haven't thoroughly tested them, so try at your own risk!
Tin Foil: Adding a ball of tin foil in the dryer doesn’t sound like a smart idea… but apparently, it grounds the static generated by the clothes.
Safety Pins: Attach 2 safety pins on different items in the dryer, and everything will (apparently) come out static-free.
White Vinegar: Add 1/4 cup of vinegar into your fabric softener dispenser during the rinse cycle. Proponents of this method claim that the smell of vinegar dissipates after the clothes are dry.
Caring for Your Wool Dryer Balls
Over time, wool balls may pill and pick up loose threads, which shows they are working hard. This will happen faster when your drying coarser fabrics. An occasional trim with scissors will keep them looking sharp.
If your wool ball gets dirty, simply wash them in the next load. If they come out of the wash a bit squished, just reshape them with your hands while they’re still damp. If you wash them in hot water, you may notice your wool balls become even tighter, making them even more pilling-resistant.
Wool dryer balls are biodegradable, so once they’ve run their course, they can be buried in a garden or a flower pot. As the wool decomposes, nutrients are added to the soil and help retain soil moisture. Alternatively, hang them in a tree and watch birds collect the wool to build their nests.
Other Fun Ideas for Using Wool Balls
They make great pet toys for dogs and cats. Fun fact: we were asked to make them for the Orangutans at The Toronto Zoo!
They are safe and softballs for indoor bowling.
Learn to juggle and join the Circus!