Dryer Balls vs. Dryer Sheets: Which One Should You Choose?

Written By Kayla Tai

As microplastics become an increasing threat to our health and planet, more people are switching to plastic-free products. One such product is dryer balls. If you’re considering whether to swap your dryer sheets for dryer balls, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down the comparison in terms of quality, price, and environmental impact to help you decide.

Quality & Convenience

Dryer sheets contain softening agents, antistatic agents, clay, and fragrances, but their main material is nonwoven polyester fabric—a form of plastic. When heated in the dryer, these sheets shed microplastics onto your clothes and skin, which can cause irritation.

Dryer balls, on the other hand, are made from one simple material: wool. They are free from the chemicals and microplastics found in dryer sheets. Plus, they require no effort—just toss them in the dryer and reuse them for years. Unlike dryer sheets, which must be repurchased regularly, dryer balls offer a long-term, hassle-free solution.

Key Differences

  • Material: Dryer balls are made from natural wool, while dryer sheets are made from nonwoven polyester (plastic).

  • Chemical-Free: Dryer balls contain no artificial fragrances or chemicals, whereas dryer sheets include softening agents, antistatic agents, clay, and fragrances.

  • Reusability: Dryer balls last for years, while dryer sheets are single-use items.

  • Residue-Free: Dryer balls leave no sticky residues on clothes, while dryer sheets can leave a film and shed microplastics.

 

Price Comparison

Dryer balls have a higher upfront cost but save money over time. A set of wool dryer balls typically costs between $10 and $20 and lasts for over 1,000 loads, whereas a $5 box of dryer sheets lasts about 80 loads.

Cost Breakdown

  • Dryer Sheets: $5 per box (lasts 80 loads) → $60 per 1,000 loads

  • Dryer Balls: $15 per set (lasts 1,000+ loads)

Over 1,000 loads, dryer sheets cost around four times as much as a single set of dryer balls, making the switch a smart financial choice.

 

Environmental Impact

One of the biggest advantages of dryer balls is their eco-friendliness. They are reusable and compostable, creating zero waste. In contrast, dryer sheets contribute to landfill waste and contain synthetic fibers that are not biodegradable.

Environmental Comparison:

  • Dryer Balls: Reusable, compostable, zero waste

  • Dryer Sheets: Single-use, contribute to landfill waste, contain microplastics

 

Conclusion: The Clear Winner

When comparing price, quality, and environmental impact, dryer balls are the superior choice. They provide long-term savings, healthier materials for your family, and a significantly lower environmental footprint. While dryer sheets may offer temporary convenience, the benefits of switching to dryer balls far outweigh the drawbacks of single-use sheets.

If you’ve been on the fence about making the switch, now is the perfect time. Your wallet, your laundry, and the planet will thank you!

Kayla Tai