What Are the Best Wool Dryer Balls?

September 11, 2023

The best wool dryer balls will be 100% wool, chemical free, and eco-friendly. Bonus points if they last for 1000 loads of laundry, support small businesses and underprivileged communities, and are adorably cute.

Quick links:

Friendsheep review

Blueland review

Public good review

Woolzies review

S&T Inc. review

Ecoigy review

Smart Sheep review

What to look for?

Wool vs plastic dryer balls

Best for pet hair

Let’s look at which wool dryer balls make the cut.

Friendsheep Wool Dryer Balls

Friendsheep’s wool dryer balls are excellent quality, and very similar to those of Smart Sheep—but at a higher price point. Let’s look at the pros and cons of Friendsheep organic wool dryer balls.

Plastic-free, chemical free, unscented, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic
Made with 100% New Zealand wool
Organic
Cruelty-free certified
No fillers, 100% wool to the core
Individually hand felted in Nepal for fair wages in ethical and environmentally friendly working conditions
Compostable product in completely recyclable and compostable packaging
$5 per dryer ball when you buy a pack of 6 (plain)—compare to $3.33 from Smart Sheep

Blueland Dryer Ball Starter Set

Blueland’s dryer balls are made from 100 percent New Zealand wool.

Eco-friendly
Made from premium New Zealand wool that is sourced from suppliers who take care to treat sheep well
Designed to replace up to 1,000 single-use dryer sheets
Plastic-free and sustainably sourced
No glues, no petroleum, and no chemical residue
$6 per ball; they come in a package of 3 (plain) dryer balls

Public Good Wool Dryer Balls

Public Good makes really cheap dryer balls. While kind to your budget, their quality is a bit lower than other brands on this list.

Cruelty-free, fragrance-free, and biodegradable
Eco-friendly
Come with a cotton bag for easy storage
Made in China (compare to Smart Sheep; ours are handmade in Nepal)
Cheap compared to some other competitors, only $2.50
Can leave behind some lint

Woolzies Wool Dryer Balls

Woolzies wool dryer balls come in a set of 6 extra-large unscented dryer balls made from pure, organic New Zealand wool.

Contain no fillers, additives, or chemicals
Hypoallergenic and eco-friendly
Organic
You can choose the color of your dryer balls
Come with a bottle of essential oil of your choosing
Not the best option for static cling because of the way the wool has been processed—compare to Smart Sheep’s handfelted wool dryer balls that fight static like a boss
$4.30 per dryer ball for a package of 6—compare to $3.33 from Smart Sheep

S&T Inc. XL Wool Dryer Balls

ST Inc reusable laundry dryer balls come in a package of six and are made of natural wool from New Zealand.

Contain no perfume, chemicals, or scent
Made from all-natural wool
Organic
Come with a storage box
On the cheaper side, with only $2 per wool ball in package of 6
Made in China, while Smart Sheep wool dryer balls are handmade in Nepal
Become misshapen after a few uses, while ours remain intact for up to 1,000 loads

Ecoigy Wool Dryer Balls

In a set of 6, you’ll get Ecoigy premium 100% New Zealand wool dryer balls..

Eco-friendly, fragrance free, and hypoallergenic
100% biodegradable and reusable
Packaged in a well-design reusable cotton bag
$2 per dryer ball
Smaller size compared to ours, not perfect for large loads
Not ideal for dark colored clothes; they tend to shed too much

Smart Sheep Wool Dryer Balls

“A Game-Changer for Laundry” — Amazon reviewer

“Quiet, efficient, and hypoallergenic” — Amazon reviewer

Smart Sheep wool dryer balls combine the highest quality with a very affordable price.

Eco-friendly and organic
Plastic-free, chemical free, unscented, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic
Made from high-grade, humanely sourced, unbleached New Zealand wool
Crafted in Nepal and handcrafted with attention to details
Creation provides well-paying jobs for marginalized communities in Kathmandu, and the packaging process supports moms working flexible hours in the U.S
Last up to 1,000 loads
Only $3.33 per wool ball in a package of 6

“Love these! Great value in that you’re getting so many, and they’re amazing at gathering up extra bits of lint while not *absorbing* that lint. They also fluff up everything and keep it aerated so I’ve found it reduced drying time quite a bit! Way better than having to use dryer sheets that hide in your clothes and fill up your trash.” — Amazon reviewer

We think we make the best wool dryer balls on the planet, and our customers agree. Want to try them for yourself? Buy our wool dryer balls today and experience the magic.

What Should You Know About Wool Dryer Balls?

Our wool dryer balls are a simple yet effective addition to your laundry routine. Here are some things you need to know about them:

Wool dryer balls offer a natural alternative to chemical-laden fabric softeners and dryer sheets, reducing static cling, minimizing wrinkles, and leaving your laundry smelling great.
By improving airflow and separating laundry in the dryer, these handy laundry dryer balls can shorten drying cycles, saving you time and energy.
Wool dryer balls can be used for hundreds of loads, making them a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice.
Made from reusable natural materials, wool dryer balls are biodegradable and reduce waste compared to disposable dryer sheets.
Wool dryer balls are hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin. They do not leave residue or chemical fragrances on clothing.
Wool balls can be used with all types of fabrics, including cotton, synthetic fibers, and even delicate items.
The gentle agitation of wool dryer balls helps prevent static cling and reduces the formation of wrinkles, resulting in smoother and more manageable clothes.
Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the dryer balls to infuse your laundry with a fresh scent, without synthetic fragrance chemicals. Or get our scenting spray in orange, lemon, and lavender.
Use at least three to six dryer balls for optimal performance, depending on the size of your load. Adding more dryer balls can further enhance their effectiveness.
Simply toss them into the dryer with your laundry. To maintain their effectiveness, periodically remove lint or hair, and refresh them by washing with mild laundry detergent and air drying.
Wool balls can be used with both electric and gas dryers, as well as with front-loading and top-loading machines.
On average, wool dryer balls can last for approximately 1,000 loads, or 2-5 years, depending on usage and maintenance.

“We have been using [Smart Sheep] wool dryer balls for years now. This last round I purchased in March of 2020, and I'm coming back now to buy the next round. They've held up wonderfully!” — Amazon reviewer in June 2023.

What to Look for When Buying Wool Dryer Balls?

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing dryer balls.

Material
Size and weight
Scent
Cost

Material

Avoid dryer balls made from a blend of wool and other textiles. Get 100% wool. Wool is moisture-wicking and biodegradable, while other materials weaken these properties.

Look for wool sourced from reputable and sustainable farms. We use only the purest quality material, high-grade, humanely sourced, unbleached New Zealand wool, in our wool dryer balls. This ensures maximum performance and durability.

Size and Weight

The dryer ball size determines their ability to create space between your laundry items in the dryer. Oversized dryer balls are more effective at separating clothes, allowing hot air to circulate freely and penetrate the fabric, resulting in faster and more efficient drying.

Heavier dryer balls provide better tumbling action, helping to fluff and soften clothes. They also assist in reducing wrinkles and minimizing static cling by ensuring optimal contact between the dryer balls and the fabric.

Scent

Smart Sheep wool dryer balls are unscented. This allows you to have full control over the fragrance of your laundry.

If you prefer to add a pleasant aroma to your clothes, you can easily do so by using our Essential Oil Anti Static Scenting Spray. This specially formulated spray allows you to infuse your laundry with the delightful scents of lavender, orange, or lemon.

With our unscented wool dryer balls and our scented spray, you can enjoy the perfect balance of fragrance and freshness in your laundry routine.

Cost

While the initial investment may be slightly higher than other alternatives, such as single-use dryer sheets or plastic dryer balls, wool dryer balls offer significant cost savings in the long run. Unlike disposable options, our affordable dryer balls are reusable and can last for thousands of laundry loads. This means you won't need to constantly repurchase dryer sheets or replace worn-out plastic balls.

“I’ll never use dryer sheets again” — Amazon reviewer

Wool vs Plastic Dryer Balls

Wool dryer balls are better than plastic dryer balls in so many ways.

Plastic dryer balls are typically less effective in terms of softening and reducing static. They’re also terrible for the environment.

Let’s look at some differences between wool dryer balls and plastic ones.

Material: wool dryer balls are made from natural fabrics, typically 100% wool. They are hypoallergenic and gentle on clothes. Plastic dryer balls are made from plastic.
Drying performance: wool dryer balls are known for their excellent drying performance. They help to separate and fluff the clothes, allowing hot air to circulate more efficiently and reducing drying time. Plastic dryer balls may not provide the same level of agitation and airflow, resulting in longer drying times.
Softening: wool dryer balls naturally soften wet clothes. The gentle friction created by the balls helps to loosen and lift fibers, resulting in softer material.
Static reduction: wool dryer balls reduce static because they absorb humidity at the start of the drying cycle, then release it at the end. Over drying clothes and bedding breeds static electricity, and humidity is the key to eliminating it.
Eco-friendliness: wool dryer balls are biodegradable, renewable, and do not contribute to plastic waste. On the other hand, plastic dryer balls are made from synthetic materials, which have a higher environmental impact in their manufacture and disposal.
Durability: plastic dryer balls win in this regard. They are longer-lasting than wool dryer balls. They can withstand higher temperatures and do not break down or shed over time. Still, quality organic dryer balls can last up to 1,000 loads of laundry, which is not nothing.
Chemical-free: wool dryer balls are a chemical-free alternative to traditional dryer sheets, which often contain synthetic fragrances and additives. Plastic dryer balls do not release any chemicals during the drying process.

“One of the best-selling sets of dryer balls on Amazon (they’ve been rated a whopping 16,000 times), these are handmade in Nepal with 100 percent New Zealand wool. They are guaranteed to continue softening your clothes without the added toxic chemicals of dryer sheets.” — Real Simple review

Best Dryer Balls for Pet Hair

Choosing the right laundry dryer balls can make a big difference when it comes to dealing with pet hair. The natural fibers of wool attract and capture pet hair during the drying process, helping to reduce the amount of hair left on your clothes. The gentle agitation of the dryer balls also helps to loosen and release pet hair from the fabric.

For maximum effectiveness, opt for high-quality wool dryer balls, like our Smart Sheep dryer balls, which are designed to efficiently remove pet hair while keeping your laundry soft and static-free.

Our organic wool dryer balls are far better than tennis balls, dryer sheets, and plastic dryer balls. They will make your laundry day more enjoyable. Want to try them for yourself?

“These dryer balls are a great option for pet owners who have blankets, towels, or other machine-washable items that pet hair frequently clings to.” — The Spruce Pets review

Dryer Balls FAQ

What is the best wool for dryer balls?

The best wool for dryer balls is high-quality, 100% natural wool, such as New Zealand wool, which is known for its durability and effectiveness in softening laundry.

Do wool balls really work in the clothes dryer?

Dryer balls shorten drying times, fluff your laundry, and are a great way to add essential oil fragrances to your laundry. Here are just a few of the ways that these wooly wonders work in the dryer.

Improved air circulation. As the dryer balls tumble, they separate and lift the clothing, allowing hot air to circulate more efficiently.
Moisture absorption. The wool fibers of the dryer balls absorb excess moisture from the clothes.
Softening and fluffing. The gentle agitation of the dryer balls helps to naturally soften fabrics and reduce wrinkles.
Reduction of static cling. By preventing clothes from sticking together during the drying process, wool dryer balls help to minimize static electricity buildup.

Which works better: wool or plastic dryer balls?

Wool dryer balls are more effective than plastic dryer balls. Wool dryer balls help to separate clothes, reduce drying time, and naturally soften fabrics. They are also eco-friendly and free of synthetic materials. Plastic dryer balls, on the other hand, may not provide the same level of performance and may not have the same eco-friendly qualities as wool dryer balls.

How do you pick wool dryer balls?

When choosing wool dryer balls, consider factors like material quality, size, and durability. Opt for high-quality, 100% natural wool balls that are free from chemicals and synthetic materials. Look for reusable laundry dryer balls that are large enough to be effective but still leave room for airflow.

Does it matter what color wool dryer balls are?

It doesn’t matter what color the wool balls are. Colors are personal preferences and do not affect the performance in any way; plus, they won't bleed onto clothes.

How many wool dryer balls should you put in your laundry dryer?

You can adjust the number of wool dryer balls in your dryer depending on load size and preference. Here are some general rules of thumb:

For small to medium loads, 3-4 dryer balls are enough.

For larger loads, use between 5 and 8 dryer balls.
For extra-large loads, put between 8 and 12 dryer balls.

Are some dryer balls better than others?

Smart Sheep dryer balls are the best on the market. They’re made of the purest, organic New Zealand wool and handcrafted in Nepal with attention to detail. They’re eco-friendly, cruelty-free, hypoallergenic, and a great, durable replacement for dryer sheets and softeners. They are also inexpensive and provide excellent value for money.

How do you recharge plastic dryer balls?

Plastic dryer balls do not require recharging like wool dryer balls. Wipe them with a damp cloth to remove any lint or debris that may accumulate during use.

How many times can you use wool dryer balls?

Dryer balls can be reused for many cycles, typically lasting for 1,000 or more loads of laundry.

How often should you recharge wool dryer balls?

Recharging dryer balls removes lint and fiber buildup and rehydrates over-dried wool fibers. It is recommended to recharge your wool dryer balls after 100 uses.

Can you use merino wool for dryer balls?

Yes, merino wool can be used for dryer balls. Merino wool is known for its softness and durability, making it a great choice for creating effective and gentle dryer balls.

Are unscented or scented wool dryer balls better?

Unscented dryer balls are a versatile option suitable for all laundry types, while scented wool balls can add a pleasant fragrance to your laundry. If you enjoy fragrant laundry, using scented dryer balls or adding a few drops of your favorite essential oils to unscented balls can provide a fresh aroma.

What are the benefits of dryer balls?

Here are some of the benefits of dryer balls.

Decrease drying time
Reduce static cling
Quieter operation
No harmful chemicals
Great for people with sensitive skin
Environmentally friendly
Save money

How do I use wool dryer balls?

Dryer balls are really simple to use.

Toss your dryer balls in with your wet laundry. Dryer balls need space to bounce around and circulate air, so don’t overfill the dryer.
Close the door and start the dryer.
Keep an eye on your laundry, because the drying time will be shorter than it would be without dryer balls.
Take your clothes out of the dryer and store the balls somewhere dry to avoid dampness and odors.

Can dryer balls replace fabric softeners and dryer sheets completely?

Dryer balls can effectively replace fabric softeners and dryer sheets. They offer similar benefits in terms of softening clothes and reducing static, but without the need for chemical-laden softeners or disposable sheets. Also, dryer balls save time and money, and are eco-friendly.

What are some eco-friendly products for washing machines?

Our detergent strips are the perfect eco-friendly product for your washing machine. These strips are made from plant-based ingredients and are packaged in recyclable materials, minimizing waste.