The 8 Top Dryer Balls, Tested and Evaluated

Top Pick

Wool is a highly desirable and often costly material, which is why many dryer balls are priced higher. However, Handy Laundry Dryer Balls offer an affordable option without sacrificing performance or quality. Crafted from 100% New Zealand wool, they earn our top recommendation.

We noticed only minor fraying and pilling after drying, and the dryer balls remained in the same condition as before being placed in the dryer. After drying towels for 30 minutes, the moisture level decreased by 25%. Thinner towels felt a little damp, while thicker ones were still fairly wet, particularly in the middle, where the moisture was more concentrated than at the edges.

When used in the dryer with towels, the dryer balls were surprisingly quiet. Although there was some noise, it was comparable to the sound they make when drying heavy bedding. After six months of use, they continue to work just as well as on day one, with noticeable reductions in drying time and an increase in linen softness. For those who enjoy scented dryer balls, these can absorb a few drops of your preferred essential oil, releasing a fresh, natural fragrance into the dryer.

Material: New Zealand wool | Quantity: 6 per pack | Diameter: 3.18 inches

Most Long-Lasting

Dryer balls surpass dryer sheets in terms of sustainability, as they can be reused multiple times, with some manufacturers guaranteeing up to 1,000 uses. After running these Everspring dryer balls through the dryer, they came out as spotless as they went in, without any lint. They also retained their 10-inch diameter, highlighting their durability. Given their solid performance, we expect these dryer balls to endure through many cycles.

After drying wet towels for 30 minutes using these dryer balls, we observed a notable 43% reduction in moisture—one of the highest reductions in our tests. Although the towels weren't completely dry after the cycle (as expected), the moisture was evenly distributed, with no areas wetter or drier than others. Thanks to their all-wool design, the dryer balls worked quietly, allowing us to easily have a conversation nearby. The soft texture of the balls also proved gentler on our linens compared to plastic alternatives. However, these balls didn't reduce static as effectively, as we saw no improvement compared to our usual drying method.

After a month of using the dryer balls, we didn’t notice any changes in the feel of our linens, though our clothes did feel slightly softer. By the six-month mark, the balls had become a bit smaller and fuzzier, which is typical for wool. Drying time remained mostly the same for larger and standard loads but showed a slight reduction for smaller loads. Overall, we found these balls to be perfect for small loads of essentials, and with their affordable price, they offer excellent value for their longevity.

Material: New Zealand wool | Quantity: 3 in a pack | Diameter: 3.18 inches

Ideal for Reducing Wrinkles

When you're excited to wear your freshly cleaned clothes, the last thing you want is to deal with annoying wrinkles. Fortunately, these dryer balls took care of that problem, significantly improving our laundry routine. They effectively removed wrinkles from our clothes, saving us time we'd typically spend on ironing and steaming.

After washing, the towels had a moisture level of 28%. After spending 30 minutes in the dryer with the dryer balls, the moisture level increased to 29%. This 3.29% rise was unexpected, so we recommend extending the drying time for the best outcome. While our linens didn’t dry fully, they did become noticeably softer. Additionally, the static was significantly reduced, with clothes hardly sticking together after drying.

There was no visible change in the dryer balls after use, and the wool remained largely unaffected. However, they were a bit noisy in the dryer, so we wouldn’t suggest using them overnight or during naps if the laundry room is nearby. After six months of use, the dryer balls are still performing well. Although they started pilling and gathering some lint, they stayed intact with no visible wear. This pack, which includes just three balls and essential oil, was on the expensive side, but we found the scent of the oil to be pleasant and not overpowering, making it a worthwhile investment.

Material: New Zealand wool | Quantity: 3 balls per pack | Size: 3.02 inches in diameter

Quickest Drying Time

In today's busy world, we often don't have the luxury of waiting for the full drying cycle. Fortunately, dryer balls can help speed things up. After using these hypoallergenic dryer balls consistently for months, we were surprised by how much they reduced drying time.

Starting with a circumference of 8.5 inches, these were some of the smallest dryer balls we tested. Despite their compact size, they performed excellently. After just 30 minutes of use, we saw a 33% reduction in moisture, leaving our towels only slightly damp. The essential oils’ scent transferred gently, giving the towels a fresh, pleasant aroma without being too strong. While a few loose threads appeared after drying, we didn’t notice any scuffing or shrinking.

These dryer balls outperformed others we tested in eliminating static, and they noticeably softened the feel of our linens. While they were somewhat noisy in the dryer, the sound didn't interfere with our daily activities. We also love the charming sheep designs, with each ball featuring a distinct one, bringing a playful touch to laundry time. Even though the lamb design faded after six months of use, the dryer balls still performed effectively.

Material: New Zealand wool | Amount: 8 in pack | Diameter: 2.71 inches

Best Heavy Duty

For large loads of laundry, these heavy-duty Nellie's dryer balls were a perfect fit. They did an excellent job with sheets and towels, ensuring everything dried quickly and evenly by separating the items effectively. Even our thickest linens, which are typically harder to dry thoroughly, came out well-dried and softened with use over time.

These dryer balls, measuring 3.22 inches in diameter, were among the largest we tested. They were noticeably softer and more flexible compared to the typical plastic ones. Surprisingly, they operated much quieter in our dryer, even quieter than some wool dryer balls we tried. After six months of use, they were still in excellent condition, showing no signs of shrinkage or lint build-up. Our only concern was their ability to reduce static, as they didn’t perform as well as wool dryer balls in that regard.

Although this pack contains only two dryer balls, it ranks as one of the more expensive options we tested. That said, its outstanding performance makes it worthwhile. If you’re in need of an efficient solution for drying heavier items like bath towels and bedding, Nellie’s Dryerballs are an excellent choice.

Material: Thermal rubber plastic | Quantity: 2 per pack | Diameter: 3.22 inches

Best for Reducing Static

If you’re frustrated with clothes clinging together due to static, dryer balls are a great solution. Wool dryer balls are especially absorbent, as they retain moisture to help reduce static electricity. This six-pack from Smart Sheep impressed us in testing with its effective static-reducing capabilities. After six months of use, the dryer balls not only sped up drying time but also helped minimize wrinkles and completely eliminated static.

Made from New Zealand wool, these dryer balls were notably quiet in our tests, emitting only a soft, muted thud in the dryer. This quiet operation can be attributed to their soft and squishy material, which seemed to absorb most of the bouncing. After 30 minutes in our lab, the dryer balls reduced towel moisture by 19%, leaving them damp but evenly dry.

It’s important to note that over time, the dryer balls did become fuzzier. One ball even became so pilled that it ripped after continued use, which raised concerns about the pack’s long-term durability. However, the manufacturer confirmed this is a normal occurrence, and we didn’t notice any decline in performance. Given their effectiveness in reducing wrinkles and static, we still consider these dryer balls a solid option. Additionally, the pack comes in a variety of fun designs, including sheep, penguin, puppy, and the classic white.

Material: New Zealand wool | Quantity: 6 per pack | Diameter: 2.95 inches

Best for Fragrance

Nothing beats the clean, fresh scent of freshly laundered clothes. Some dryer balls, like Woolzies, are infused with essential oils to add a delightful fragrance to your linens. Made from organic wool, Woolzies dryer balls come in lavender, lemon, and orange scents, giving you the option to customize your laundry's aroma. In our testing, they retained the essential oils well, imparting a subtle fragrance to the laundry. We liked that the scent was not overpowering, but if you desire a stronger aroma, you can simply add more essential oil drops.

These dryer balls performed exceptionally well at keeping our towels spread apart during testing, preventing them from clumping and accelerating the drying process. Although they weren’t completely silent, the sound they made was noticeable but not overwhelming. After six months of use, they kept their shape and overall quality, though we did notice some minor piling and slight discoloration from the essential oils over time.

Material: Organic wool | Quantity: 3 in pack | Diameter: 3.02 inches

Best Plastic

Regardless of the material, dryer balls are known for reducing drying times by lifting and separating clothes, allowing air to circulate more effectively. Plastic dryer balls tend to be more effective in this respect due to the spikes that cover them. With their spiky design and cute hedgehog shape, World Market's Hedgehog Dryer Balls are our top pick among plastic options.

After drying towels in our lab with these dryer balls for 30 minutes, we saw a 9.78% reduction in moisture. While the towels' wetness stayed nearly the same before and after the drying session, we observed a significant decrease in drying time after one month of use. Our clothes felt much softer and much less wrinkled. To our surprise, even our socks looked as if they had been professionally pressed. The spikes on the dryer balls also minimized static, keeping clothes separated when we removed them. After six months, the only difference we noticed was some minor discoloration, but this didn’t affect performance.

The texture of these dryer balls was rather unique, feeling almost abrasive to the touch. Made from plastic, they were by far the loudest we tested. The sound they produced was comparable to several pairs of shoes clattering around in the dryer, so loud that it was hard to carry on a conversation nearby. Although we wouldn’t recommend using them overnight due to the noise, their ability to reduce wrinkles, static, and roughness, paired with their adorable hedgehog design, make them an excellent choice.

Material: Plastic | Amount: 2 in pack | Diameter: 3.18 inches

Final Verdict

After an extensive testing process, the Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls claimed our top position. Made from 100% New Zealand wool, they excelled due to their quiet operation, remarkable durability, and fast drying time. For those seeking a scented option, we recommend the Woolzies Organic Wool Dryer Balls.

Our Testing Process

We tested 18 dryer balls both in our Des Moines lab and at home, assessing them based on performance, durability, noise level, and overall value for money.

In the lab, we started by inspecting each dryer ball's size, appearance, and texture. Using fabric measuring tape, we measured the circumference of each ball at its widest point. After assigning each dryer ball to a dryer, we placed six balls into the empty machine to check the noise level.

Next, we were given six towels. Prior to washing, we evaluated their texture and softness. A large bowl was placed on the scale, which we zeroed out before recording the dry towels' weight. Using a moisture meter, we checked the moisture level in the dry towels at three points: bottom, middle, and top. After noting these readings, the towels were rinsed in the washing machine (without detergent), and we repeated the process with the scale and moisture meter.

After gathering the pre-drying data, we placed the six wet towels into the dryer along with the six dryer balls. For scented balls, we added two to three drops of essential oils to each ball before placing them in with the towels. Ensuring the vent was clean, we ran the dryer on a regular cycle for 30 minutes. During the drying process, we monitored the noise level of the balls. Once the time was up, we repeated the weighing and moisture meter checks. We then inspected the appearance and texture of the balls, noting any changes. To check for shrinkage, we measured the circumference of the used dryer balls with fabric measuring tape. If the ball was wool, we cut it in half to observe the core.

For long-term evaluation, we took the dryer balls home. After one and six months of use, we assessed their performance by determining if they reduced drying time, wrinkles, or static. In terms of durability, we looked for signs of shrinking, pilling, or damage over time. We also considered whether they affected the texture of our linens. Based on these factors, we compiled our list of the best dryer balls.

Note: During our lab testing, we used three different dryers, which may have influenced the results.

How to Shop for Dryer Balls Like a Pro

Material

Dryer balls come in various materials like wool, plastic, foam, and rubber, with wool being the most widely preferred. As Morris explains, wool dryer balls are free from many chemicals, additives, and odors commonly found in plastic ones, making them ideal for individuals with sensitive skin. “Wool dryer balls offer a range of benefits, but the most crucial for me is reducing drying time, especially with the current cost of energy,” Morris says. “Even shaving off five to ten minutes of drying time is a win for me, particularly in the long run.” While plastic dryer balls are less environmentally friendly, they are durable and highly effective in cutting down drying time.

Size

Most wool dryer balls measure between 2.5 and 3 inches in diameter, while larger ones range from 3 to 4 inches. The larger the dryer ball, the faster the drying time. Oversized balls are particularly useful for big loads and heavy items like bedding and towels.

“Size is an important factor when buying dryer balls because they need to move around freely in your dryer,” says Barefoot. “If they're too small, they might get lost in the laundry and won't do their job properly. On the flip side, if they're too large, they will occupy too much space in the dryer and prevent your clothes from moving freely, leading to uneven drying. The ideal size is somewhere in the middle, allowing the balls to move around and work effectively.”

Quantity

Dryer balls usually come in sets of three, four, or six. Experts agree that the number you need depends on the size of your laundry loads. For small to medium loads, most brands suggest using three to four standard-sized dryer balls or two oversized ones. For large loads, five to six standard dryer balls or three to four oversized ones work best. “If your clothes are still taking too long to dry or come out wrinkled, consider adding a few more dryer balls,” suggests Barefoot.

More Dryer Balls to Consider

Budieggs Wool Dryer Balls, 6-Pack: These dryer balls performed well after one month of use, and we appreciated the option to add essential oils for a more fragrant experience. However, we still encountered a considerable amount of static, and no noticeable changes in texture were observed.

Kikkerland Puffer Fish Dryer Buddies, 2-Pack: These cute dryer balls, shaped like pufferfish, kept our clothes fluffy and wrinkle-free. However, they are louder than wool dryer balls, so they might not be ideal for overnight drying.

Questions You Might Ask

How do you use dryer balls?

Using dryer balls is easy. To get the best results, leave them in your dryer so you won’t forget to add them after each load. Spraying wool dryer balls lightly with water can also assist in minimizing static cling.

“Simply toss them into your dryer with your wet clothes,” advises Barefoot. “They’ll help fluff your laundry and cut down on drying time. Most dryer balls are reusable for several loads, but don’t forget to clean them regularly!”

How do you clean dryer balls?

Cleaning dryer balls might seem unnecessary or even counterproductive, but it can be beneficial for maintaining their reusability and extending their lifespan. As a general guideline, dryer balls should be cleaned every 80 to 100 loads of laundry.

“Despite what it might sound like, dryer balls can indeed be cleaned, as their primary purpose is to roll around with clean laundry,” Morris explains. “Typically, you can toss them in the wash with cold water (check the instructions for your specific dryer balls) and then air dry them. This should eliminate any build-up, lint, or residue.”

How long do dryer balls last?

Most dryer balls, particularly those made from wool, can last for hundreds, even thousands of loads. With proper care, these durable alternatives to single-use dryer sheets can last for years.

“I’ve had mine for about a year and a half, and I haven’t noticed any signs of wear and tear,” says Morris. “I don’t track my laundry loads exactly, but they’re definitely not few, so they should continue lasting for a long time.”

To keep your dryer balls in optimal condition for effectively reducing wrinkles, static, and drying time, Barefoot recommends monitoring their wear over time. “The lifespan of your dryer balls depends on factors like how often you use them and the types of fabrics you're drying,” says Barefoot. “If you use your dryer balls frequently, it’s essential to inspect them regularly for any signs of damage, which will indicate when it’s time to replace them.”

Take Our Word for It

This article was authored by Jamie Fischer, a writer at Mytour, and L. Daniela Alvarez, contributing writer for Mytour, who brings almost three years of experience writing about lifestyle topics and product reviews. To identify the best dryer balls, we tested 18 different varieties in our lab, evaluating their performance, durability, noise levels, and overall value for money. We also took them home to see how they held up after one and six months of real-world use. We gathered expert advice on how to shop for dryer balls from Adam Morris, founder of Appliances Made Simple, and Taylor Barefoot, cleaning expert, editor-in-chief, and founder of Snug Sensations.