Dryer balls soften clothes primarily by agitating against the fabric fibers during the drying cycle.
Wool dryer balls, like other types, work by constantly tumbling within the dryer drum alongside your laundry. As the provided reference explains, "The balls continually agitate against the fibers in clothes and linens". This physical action helps to:
- Separate Fabrics: The balls create space between items, allowing hot air to circulate more efficiently.
- Fluff Fibers: The repeated gentle impact and movement caused by the balls helps to loosen and fluff the fibers in your clothes and linens. This reduces stiffness and makes the fabric feel softer to the touch after drying.
This agitation process, as described, not only helps in softening but can also contribute to:
- Faster Drying: Better air circulation often leads to shorter drying times.
- Reduced Static Cling: Proper use of dryer balls can help minimize static electricity buildup.
In essence, the continuous physical interaction between the dryer balls and the fabric fibers is the key mechanism by which they achieve their softening effect, as highlighted by their consistent agitation.
