This is the only $9 laundry hero you need to stop winter bedding from balling up in the dryer – it will even cut your energy bill, too

There are few things as comforting as warm bedding fresh from the dryer, so it can be pretty disheartening when they come out in one big, soggy clump.

You don't have to settle for repeat cycles, however. The simple $9 answer is spiky dryer balls, from Amazon.

These quick additions can improve the efficiency of even the best clothes dryers and save you money on your energy bills. Here's how.

The $9 laundry hero that stops sheets from bunching

Dryer balls are nothing new; they are one of the best alternatives to traditional dryer sheets if you want to reduce static on clothing and create a non-toxic home.

But their benefits for doing laundry extend beyond environmental impact.

Their solid, spiky design, Tom Ceconi, president at Heritage Park Laundry Essentials, explains, 'soften the fabric, reduce static, and, most importantly, allow air to circulate more efficiently.' It all adds up to help dry clothes quickly.

Wool dryer balls, from Walmart, have the same effect, he adds, and can also help to absorb moisture.

No more repeated drying cycles and energy wastage will help you cut energy bills, all for just one $9 spend.

Pair this simple addition with the even simpler shake method, and you are on to a certified winner this season.

Don't just take our word for it. With over 900 five-star reviews, these dryer balls are saving hundreds of people the hassle of damp laundry.

Verified Amazon shopper Kelley, for instance, shared, 'I love these dryer balls, why have I not purchased these before? How did I live with clumped up still-damp clothes from the dryer for so long?'

They add that the addition of the balls does make their dryer a little more noisy, however, 'the outcome is worth it, they work GREAT!'

That isn't the only benefit, either. As fellow shopper Andres adds, the dryer balls are a lifesaver for removing lint from clothes, too.

'They collect all the stray hairs that happen to make it to the dryer. Being in a house full of girls, that can be a lot. These have been a great addition to our drying cycle.'

They are simply a no-brainer.

Drying essentials

FAQs

What causes clothes to ball up in the dryer?

Clothes and sheets usually ball up in the dryer due to limited space inside the drum, causing larger items to clump together as the drum spins. Adding in solid dryer balls helps to break up these clumps for more even and successful drying the first time around.

Meet the expert

Tom Ceconi

Tom grew up working in his parents' linen and bath store and has blended his hands-on expertise with his background in technology to lead multiple luxury home textiles brands.

With drying sped up, all that's left to do is put your fresh laundry away.

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