For The Love Of Wool Dryer Balls.

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I have recently been using wool dryer balls in lieu of fabric softener sheets.  I guess you could say that I've been taking a more "green" approach to my laundry routine.  Plus, if I can save some "green" in the process, then it's a win-win situation, I think!  I first discovered wool dryer balls at my local cloth diaper store.  I've been curious ever since, so I finally decided to take the plunge and invest in a few.  In case you're unfamiliar with using wool dryer balls, they are a natural solution for softening your clothes without harsh, yucky chemicals.  Made completely from wool, they help your clothes and cloth diapers (if you're a lover of the fluff) tumble dry softly, and reduce the drying time by up to half. 

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So, I bought five wool dryer balls from two local moms in the Tulsa-area.  I'm all about supporting local businesses, so I was thrilled to purchase from Shauna with Bouncing Woolies and Somer with SomerKnits.  Now, I mentioned that I had five wool dryer balls, but actually, one has been MIA for sometime.  I guess the "sock-eating monster" from the dryer made quick works of that poor dryer ball.  Now, Somer with SomerKnits mentioned placing the wool dryer balls in a hosiery/lingerie bag to keep them together.  Otherwise, some of the dryer balls will get caught in sleeves, pants legs and tangled up in other laundry items.  So, to keep your sanity, maybe keeping the wool dryer balls together in a hosiery/lingerie bag is the way to go!

Since we're in the middle of winter, the air tends to be really dry.  The furnace at my house seems to run quite a bit, so the air seems extra dry and static electricity seems to be running rapid.  Shauna with Bouncing Woolies recommended dampening the wool dryer balls if they appear to be "staticy" and then simply toss them back in the dryer.

If you're the crafty type and have a little free time, I found an in-depth tutorial on making your own dryer balls.  If you whip up some, let me know how it goes!  Or you can be like this "chic momma" and purchase some of your own wool dryer balls from the mommas at Bouncing Woolies and SomerKnits!

Here's an extra little nugget for you.  Simply adding 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar to the rinse cycle of your wash will also soften your clothes and help reduce static cling.   Plus, vinegar whitens, deodorizes and disinfects.  Wait.   I know what you're thinking. You're thinking, "But won't my clothes smell like a salad dressing?"   Now, when I clean with vinegar, yes, there's a smell of vinegar.   However, the smell dissipates quickly and then my home just smells clean. T he same will apply to your clothing.   At first, your washing machine will smell of vinegar, but again, the smell will dissipate and your clothing will smell just clean.   If you want to smell flowers and other garden delights, go pick some fresh flowers and herbs!

So, how many of you use wool dryer balls?  Do you have a favorite brand?  Do any of you use vinegar in your laundry routines?


Happy Blogging!
Toni The Chic Momma

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