How to Make Felted Wool Dryer Balls: Better Than Dryer Sheets

Are you tired of using dryer sheets and fabric softeners filled with chemicals that harm the environment? If so, consider making your own felted wool dryer balls.

If you’re concerned about the cost of switching to felted wool dryer balls, don’t worry. They are affordable and can be made at home using simple materials. Plus, since they last for so long, you’ll save money in the long run by not having to buy new dryer sheets and fabric softeners constantly.

These eco-friendly dryer balls are made from 100% natural wool yarn. They can help reduce drying time, soften clothes, and eliminate static cling without harmful chemicals. Plus, they are customizable, making them a unique addition to your laundry routine.

This step-by-step guide will show you how to make felted wool dryer balls using simple materials.

Materials You’ll Need:

• 100% wool yarn (avoid superwash or acrylic blends)
• Scissors
• Old pantyhose or tights
• Essential oils (optional)

Step 1: Create Your Base

Like most DIY projects that include wool yarn, you must begin making a base.

Start by winding the wool yarn into a small ball roughly the size of a tennis ball. If you have one, you can use a ball winder, but it’s unnecessary. Wind the yarn around your fingers until you have a ball roughly the correct size.

Step 2: Wrap Your Base

When wrapping the wool yarn around the base, wrapping it tightly and evenly is crucial to create a firm, solid core. This will provide a strong foundation for the outer layer and help the wool balls maintain shape during the felting process.

By wrapping the yarn in all directions, you’ll ensure that the entire ball is covered and there are no gaps or weak spots in the core. The tighter you wrap, the firmer the core will be, and the better the wool balls will felt together in the washing and drying process.

So take your time and wrap the yarn tightly to create a strong and sturdy base for your wool dryer balls.

Step 3: Create Your Outer Layer

Once your base is covered in yarn, it’s time to create the outer layer. Continue wrapping the yarn around the ball, but wrap it in a different direction this time. By wrapping the yarn in a different direction than the base layer, you are creating a surface that will help the wool fibers to bind together and felt more effectively.

This outer layer will provide the necessary structure for the ball to hold its shape and durability. It will contribute to the ball’s ability to reduce static and wrinkles in your laundry.

Step 4: Repeat and Add Balls to the Hose

Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you have three or four wool balls. Once you have your balls, place them inside an old pair of pantyhose or tights, knotting the hose between each ball to separate them. This will help the balls maintain their shape during the felting process.

Step 5: Felt the Balls

Place the balls in the washing machine and wash them hot with a small amount of detergent. Once the wash cycle is complete, transfer the balls to the dryer and dry them on high heat. The heat and agitation from the washing and drying process will cause the wool fibers to felt together, creating a solid, dense ball.

Step 6: Add Essential Oils (Optional)

Once the balls are felted, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to each ball for a fresh scent. Simply add the oil to the balls before throwing them in the dryer with your laundry.

What Makes Felted Wool Dryer Balls Better?

Felted wool dryer balls are a natural and eco-friendly alternative to traditional dryer sheets and fabric softeners. Made from 100% natural wool yarn, they’re safe for you and the environment and can help reduce drying time by up to 25%.

They also soften clothes and reduce static cling without leaving any residue. They’re cheap and easily customizable with essential oils or unique yarn colors.

Tips for Making the Perfect Felted Wool Dryer Balls

Making such felt balls is easier than you might think. It is an easy step-by-step process that takes a little elbow grease.

• Use 100% wool yarn, as it will felt better than other types of yarn.
• Avoid superwash or acrylic blends, as they won’t felt properly.
• Make sure to wrap the wool tightly around the ball to create a solid core.
• Feel free to experiment with different colors and textures of yarn to create unique dryer balls.
• If your dryer balls are not felting correctly, try adding a small amount of hot water to the pantyhose during the felting process.

Environmental Benefits of Handmade Felted Wool Dryer Balls

Switching to felted wool dryer balls is a smart choice for anyone looking for a natural and cost-effective alternative to traditional dryer sheets and fabric softeners.

Using felted wool dryer balls is also a great way to reduce waste. Traditional dryer sheets are single-use and end up in the trash after just one cycle. Felted wool dryer balls, on the other hand, can last for years and can be reused over and over again. By making the switch, you’ll do your part to reduce waste and protect the environment.

In addition to being cost-effective and eco-friendly, felted wool dryer balls are easy to use. Simply toss them in the dryer with your laundry and let them do their job. They will help reduce drying time, soften your clothes, and eliminate static cling, all without any additional effort.

The best part about making felt balls is the customizability and adding your personal touch to your laundry routine. You can experiment with different colors and textures of yarn to create unique dryer balls that reflect your style.

Conclusion

In conclusion, felted wool dryer balls offer numerous benefits, making them a great alternative to traditional dryer sheets. Not only do they help to reduce environmental impact and save money in the long run, but they also provide a natural and chemical-free option for softening clothes.

Following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can easily create your own felted wool dryer balls and enjoy their benefits today. So why not give them a try and see the difference for yourself? Switch to felted wool dryer balls and take a step towards a more sustainable and comfortable laundry routine.