Yes, you often need tennis balls (or dryer balls) when drying a comforter to help it fluff up and dry evenly.
Here's a breakdown:
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Why use tennis balls/dryer balls? When drying a large item like a comforter, the filling can clump together, leading to uneven drying and potential mildew growth. Tennis balls (or, ideally, dryer balls specifically designed for this purpose) act as agitators, constantly bouncing around inside the dryer and preventing the filling from clumping. This allows hot air to circulate more freely, resulting in a fluffier and more thoroughly dried comforter.
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How many tennis balls/dryer balls should you use? Generally, 2-3 tennis balls or dryer balls are sufficient for a standard-size comforter.
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Alternative: Clean canvas shoes can also be used as an alternative to tennis balls or dryer balls.
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Drying temperature: Always use a low heat setting to prevent damage to the comforter's filling and fabric. High heat can melt synthetic fillings and shrink natural fibers.
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Check for dryness: Periodically check the comforter's dryness during the drying cycle. If it's still damp, continue drying it with the tennis balls/dryer balls until completely dry.
In summary, using tennis balls or dryer balls is a recommended practice when drying a comforter to ensure even drying, prevent clumping, and maintain its fluffiness. Using a low heat setting is equally important to avoid damage.
