How To Keep Sheets From Balling Up in the Dryer: Tips and Tricks
As easy as sheets are to wash, drying them can be a bit of a headache sometimes. They ball up, end up not all the way dry, and then you have to waste more time and energy running another cycle to try to get the job done, and even then, they can end up dry but still balled up and wrinkled.
So, it's clear that the trick is figuring out how to keep those sheets from balling up in the dryer in the first place. We're here to share a few hacks and proven techniques that can help tackle just that, so let's talk about keeping those sheets wad-free so you can move on with your day!
Why Do Sheets Ball Up in the Dryer?
Sheets balling up in the dryer is a common issue that stems from the way they move and interact within the confined space of the drum. As the dryer tumbles, the large surface area of sheets allows them to twist and fold over themselves, creating what’s essentially a self-entangled ball of fabric.
This happens with sheets and not much else because sheets are typically larger than other laundry items, and their lightweight nature makes them prone to clumping together. Additionally, the centrifugal force generated during the drying cycle further adds to their wrapping and tangling nature, causing sheets to wrap around themselves or other items. This not only prolongs drying time but can also lead to uneven drying and increased wrinkles.
How To Keep Sheets From Balling Up in the Dryer: Step By Step
Achieving perfectly dried sheets without the frustration of tangling is entirely possible with a systematic approach. Follow these steps to ensure your sheets come out of the dryer smooth, wrinkle-free, and actually dry!
Step 1: Prepare Your Sheets
As you transfer your sheets from the washer to the dryer, give them a solid few shakes to remove any twists or folds. This initial step helps set the stage for even drying.
Step 2: Fold or Layer the Sheets Into the Dryer
Lightly fold or layer your sheets over themselves before placing them in the dryer. This technique reduces the surface area that can twist and tangle during the drying cycle. Do not ball them up or roll them as you set them in the drum—if you so much as start a ball shape, the tumble dry will do the rest and you’ll be far from wad-free by the end of the cycle.
Step 3: Use Dryer Balls
Add a few wool dryer balls to the load. These dryer balls help out by separating the sheets and enhancing airflow, which minimizes the chances of them balling up. You may end up finding the balls tucked into the corners of fitted sheets by the end of the cycle, but they should still be able to do their job from there!
Step 4: Pause and Rearrange
Midway through the drying cycle, pause the dryer, pull the sheets out, and give them a good shake. This quick intervention can untangle any developing clumps and promote more even drying.
Does the Type of Fabric or Sheet Size Affect Tangling?
Yes, the type of fabric and the size of the sheets can influence their tendency to tangle in the dryer. Larger sheets, such as king or queen sizes, have more surface area, which increases the likelihood of them twisting and balling up. Similarly, lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen are more prone to tangling due to their flexibility and tendency to move freely within the dryer. On the other hand, heavier fabrics like flannel may be less susceptible to tangling but can still clump if not properly managed.
Should You Wash Sheets Separately From Other Laundry?
Washing sheets separately from other laundry can help to prevent tangling and ensure optimal drying results. When sheets are washed with smaller items, especially smaller items like pillowcases, hand towels, or even clothing, the sheets can wrap around these items, leading to a snowball effect and uneven drying. By washing sheets separately, you allow them to move more freely in both the washer and dryer, reducing the risk of them balling up around other items (which is much more likely than them balling up around themselves).
Can You Wash Duvet Covers With Sheets in a Washing Machine?
Yes, you can wash duvet covers with sheets in a washing machine, but there are a few things to keep in mind to get the best results. First, make sure not to overload the machine. Giving your duvet covers and sheets enough room to move around freely helps them get cleaner and reduces the chance of tangling. It's also a good idea to close any buttons or zippers on the duvet cover to prevent it from snagging on other items.
Also make sure to check the care instructions of both the duvet and the sheets to ensure they have the same wash recommendations. You can always wash a “normal” item in a delicate cycle, but make sure you’re not running a “delicate” item through a “normal” cycle! When in doubt, you can always just opt for a delicate cycle when washing both your sheets and duvet to keep it simple.
What Is the Best Way To Dry Sheets in the Dryer?
The best way to dry sheets in the dryer is the step by step above! Begin by shaking and untangling the sheets as you transfer them from the washer to the dryer so they’re not already balled up to start with and get a good chance to stay untangled. Don’t roll them or ball them as you move them into the dryer, instead opting for a layering or folding motion instead. Add wool dryer balls to the load to enhance airflow, reduce static, and most importantly, help keep the sheets from wrapping around themselves.
Depending on your fabric, you typically want to opt for a medium to low heat setting to maximize drying without damaging the material. Midway through the cycle, pause the dryer, pull the sheets out, and give them a few good shakes like you did when you first loaded them, which helps untangle any clumps or self-tangling that are starting to form. Once the cycle is complete, promptly remove the sheets, give them one last gentle shake, and fold them while they are still warm to minimize wrinkles.
Can You Dry Duvet Covers With Sheets in a Dryer?
Yes, you can dry duvet covers with sheets in the dryer, but a little strategy goes a long way to ensure everything comes out perfectly. First, make sure the dryer isn't overloaded—both duvet covers and sheets need room to tumble freely to dry evenly and avoid tangling. Toss in a few dryer balls to help separate the items and improve airflow, which speeds up drying time and reduces wrinkles.
If your dryer is too small to reasonably give both items enough space, just dry them separately—it will save you time and energy. Opt for a low to medium heat setting to protect the fabric and prevent shrinkage. Finally, remove both items promptly once the cycle is done to keep everything looking crisp and smooth.
The Bottom Line
It seems like a given that your sheets should come out dry after a dry cycle, but balling up and tangling can stop that from happening. Thankfully, employing a few low-effort techniques such as using dryer balls, loading the sheets properly, and giving them a good shake mid-cycle can prevent sheets from tangling and ensure they’re dry and crips at the end of the cycle!
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Sources:
- Do Dryer Balls Work? - Popular Mechanics
- Cotton Traits | Crop Science US
- Guide to Flannel: Explore the Look, Feel, and History of Flannel - 2024 - MasterClass
