When it comes to doing laundry, most of us are always on the lookout for hacks to make the process more efficient - from getting stains out faster to speeding up drying times. If you've been searching for a simple, yet effective way to reduce drying time, minimize wrinkles, and keep your laundry soft, you may be surprised to find that the solution is as close as your sports equipment bin. Throwing a tennis ball into your dryer may sound odd at first, but this little trick has a multitude of benefits that will change the way you do your laundry from now on.
1. Accelerates the Drying Process
When you toss a tennis ball into the dryer with your wet laundry, it serves to separate the clothes, allowing more air to circulate among them. This enhanced airflow is key to speeding up the drying time.
Advertisement
2. Reduces the Need for Ironing
The gentle pummeling action of the tennis ball helps keep fabrics from clumping or sticking together. This means that your clothes are less likely to come out wrinkled, reducing the time you need to spend ironing.
3. Saves Energy and Money
Since the presence of a tennis ball in the dryer can reduce overall drying time, it means that your dryer doesn't have to work as hard or as long. Using less energy per cycle can add up to significant savings on your utility bills over time.
4. Keeps Bedding and Towels Fluffy
It's common for towels and bedding to lose their fluffiness over time, but the pounding action of a tennis ball in the dryer helps to maintain loft in these items. The tennis ball effectively beats them into fluffiness with each tumble.
5. Helps with Pet Hair and Lint
A tennis ball can also help to knock pet hair and lint off of your clothes as they tumble. The textured surface of the ball grabs onto these unwanted hitchhikers, pulling them away from your fabric.
6. An Alternative to Dryer Sheets
For those who prefer not to use dryer sheets due to skin sensitivity or environmental concerns, a tennis ball can serve as a non-chemical alternative to soften clothes.
7. Ensures Even Drying
Large items, such as down jackets or comforters, can come out of the dryer still damp in spots because they tend to bunch up. A tennis ball can help to fluff these items up and keep them moving, ensuring an even dry.
To get started, simply take one or two clean tennis balls and throw them in the dryer with your wet clothes. Make sure the balls are clean to prevent any color transfer, as some tennis balls are brightly dyed. You might also want to check if they are old and likely to shed any rubber or fibres on your clothes.
It's also worth noting that while tennis balls are a great hack, they might not be suitable for all types of fabrics, especially delicate ones. Always check the care labels on your garments to prevent any unwanted damage.
Advertisement
In conclusion, the simple act of tossing a tennis ball into your dryer can have a surprising number of positive effects on your laundry routine. Give it a try during your next laundry cycle and discover the difference for yourself!