By Zach Pozniak, VP of Operations at Jeeves of Belgravia New York and fourth-generation dry cleaner · @jeeves_ny
Quick answer: Usually not. Dryer sheets are single use, do not really speed up drying, and can reduce absorbency on towels, underwear, and workout clothes. Dryer balls are the better reusable alternative.
Usually, no. Dryer sheets are single use, they do not meaningfully speed up drying, and they leave behind a softening coating that can reduce absorbency and build up on fabrics and inside your machine.
If your goal is softer clothes, less static, and better drying efficiency, wool or vinyl dryer balls are the better everyday choice.
Dryer sheets are essentially paper treated with fabric softener. That coating can make clothes feel smoother and reduce static, but it also leaves residue on fabrics.
That residue is the reason we do not recommend them for towels, gym clothes, sheets, underwear, or anything else that needs to absorb water or sweat well.
If you are already using liquid fabric softener, dryer sheets are usually overkill. Pick one method, not both.
For most loads, we recommend wool dryer balls. They are reusable, help separate clothes in the dryer, improve airflow, and can cut drying time by about 5 to 10 percent over time.
If you are allergic to wool or want a vegan option, vinyl or plastic dryer balls work the same way. They are also reusable and help reduce static by keeping clothes from clumping together.
Dryer balls create space between garments, which increases airflow and helps moisture escape faster. That means less clumping, less static, and a more efficient dry cycle.
They can be useful on some sweaters or delicate items where a little softening and reduced friction may help limit pilling. Even then, use them sparingly and avoid anything that needs to stay highly absorbent.
For most people, no. They are a short-term convenience with real tradeoffs, while dryer balls are reusable, more efficient, and better for the clothes you actually want to perform well.
If you are trying to improve softness, reduce static, and protect your laundry, dryer balls are the smarter buy.
Or ask about any laundry or garment care question
Zach Pozniak is VP of Operations and co-owner of Jeeves of Belgravia New York, the Madison Avenue dry cleaner serving New York since 1979, and the fourth generation of his family in the trade. Zach posts garment care techniques as @jeeves_ny on TikTok to over 900,000 followers, and his book The Laundry Book, co-written with his father Jerry Pozniak, was featured on Good Morning America in October 2024. Jeeves NY's clients include the Metropolitan Opera, the Met Museum, and FIT, and the business has been featured in The Wall Street Journal and New York Magazine.