Are dryer sheets safe to use in your dryer?

Dryer sheets have become a common laundry addition to reduce static cling, soften fabrics, and give a pleasant scent to freshly dried laundry. But as concerns about chemicals and environmental impact continue to grow, you might be questioning the safety of using dryer sheets.

Let’s break down dryer sheets to find out what’s in them and how they can affect our laundry routine.

What do dryer sheets do?

Dryer sheets, also known as fabric softener sheets, are commonly used in clothes dryers to help soften fabrics and reduce static cling. There are various types of dryer sheets available, and some are designed for specific fabrics. Others are marketed as hypoallergenic or free of certain chemicals for those with sensitive skin. As the clothes tumble in the dryer, the heat activates the ingredients in the sheets, which then transfer to the fabrics. 

How dryer sheets reduce static:

• The surfactants in dryer sheets help neutralize the static charge build-up on fabrics during the drying process.
• Softening agents help prevent fabrics from sticking to each other and reduce the formation of wrinkles.

How dryer sheets improve freshness and odor control:

• The fragrances in dryer sheets can help mask any lingering odors in the clothes, leaving them with a pleasant, fresh scent.
• Some dryer sheets also contain antimicrobial agents that can help inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria on fabrics.

What ingredients are dryer sheets made of?

The specific formulation and concentrations of ingredients in dryer sheets can vary widely across different brands and product lines. Manufacturers often keep the exact recipes of their laundry products proprietary to maintain their competitive advantage. Some of the more common ingredients may include:

Surfactants:

• These are the primary active ingredients responsible for fabric softening and reducing static.
• The most common cationic surfactants used are dihydrogenated tallow dimethyl ammonium chloride (DTDMAC) and di(hydrogenated tallow) dimethyl ammonium chloride (DHTDMAC). 
• The positively charged compounds are attracted to the negatively charged fabrics, to deposit a thin, lubricating layer that softens the fabrics and reduces static cling.

Silicone-based compounds:

• Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is a widely used silicone-based ingredient in dryer sheets. It provides additional softening and lubricating properties to fabrics to enhance the overall feel and make ironing easier.
• Silicones can help reduce static buildup and create a smooth, non-sticky surface on the fabrics.

Fragrances:

• A variety of synthetic and natural fragrances are used to impart a pleasant scent to the clothes during the drying cycle.
• Fragrances can be a blend of essential oils, perfumes, and other aromatic compounds.

Pros of dryer sheets

Here are some of the main advantages of using dryer sheets:

• Reduce static cling: Dryer sheets can help neutralize the static electricity that builds up in the dryer by coating fabrics with a thin layer of fabric softener. This makes clothes less likely to stick together and to your skin.
• Soften fabrics: Dryer sheets contain softening agents that coat the fabric of your clothes, towels, and sheets, which makes them feel softer and more comfortable to wear or use.
• Fragrance: Many dryer sheets come with added fragrances, which can leave your laundry smelling pleasant.
• Reduce wrinkles: The softening effect of dryer sheets can reduce wrinkles in drying fabrics, making ironing easier or unnecessary in some cases.
• Repel lint and pet hair: The coating from dryer sheets can help repel lint and pet hair, keeping your clothes cleaner.
• Inexpensive and convenient: Dryer sheets are relatively cheap and easy to use, with one sheet generally being enough for a small or medium load of laundry.
• Versatile uses: Beyond the dryer, the sheets can be used for freshening up drawers, gym bags, and suitcases.

Cons of dryer sheets

Here are some of the disadvantages of using dryer sheets:

• Residue buildup: Over time, dryer sheets will leave a residue on your clothes and the interior of your dryer. This residue may appear as waxy or sticky deposits that can affect the performance of your dryer and potentially stain clothes. You’ll need to regularly clean the dryer drum, sensor bars and lint trap to prevent more serious issues.
• Allergic reactions: Dryer sheets contain fragrances and chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions (according to this study) in individuals with sensitivities. Skin irritation, respiratory discomfort, or allergic contact dermatitis are some of the possible reactions. If you or someone in your household is sensitive to these substances, consider using fragrance-free sheets, no dryer sheets or hypoallergenic alternatives.
• Fabric stiffness and damage: In some cases, dryer sheets may leave fabrics feeling stiff. This can be particularly noticeable in certain materials, such as towels or microfiber, since dryer sheets can make them less absorbent. Some garments, such as flame-resistant clothing or athletic wear with moisture-wicking properties, may be negatively affected by the chemicals or coating present in dryer sheets. Always check the care instructions for specific garments to make sure they’re compatible with dryer sheets. If you’re concerned about damage to your laundry, fabric softness can also be achieved by using wool dryer balls or other natural softeners.
• Environmental impact: Dryer sheets contribute to household waste since they’re typically designed for single use and discarded after each drying cycle. The synthetic materials used in dryer sheets may also leach into the environment (according to this study) and prevent them from being biodegradable.
• Strong fragrance: The fragrance of dryer sheets can become overwhelming, especially if too many sheets are used.
• Cost: While individual sheets are inexpensive, the cost can add up over time, especially for people who do multiple loads of laundry each week.

Are dryer sheets bad for you?

There are some potential concerns regarding the use of dryer sheets, but the overall safety of dryer sheets is a topic of ongoing debate and research. As with any consumer product, it’s recommended to read the product labels, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and consider the individual’s specific needs and sensitivities when deciding whether to use dryer sheets or explore alternative options.

Here are some of the key points to consider.

Potential health concerns:

• Some of the chemicals used in dryer sheets have been linked to potential human health issues, particularly for people with sensitive skin or existing respiratory conditions. Sensitive individuals may experience rashes, sneezing, or throat irritation.
• Certain dryer sheets may contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals, though the evidence isn’t conclusive.
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other airborne chemicals may be released from dryer sheets during the drying cycle. VOCs have a high vapor pressure and low water solubility and tend to be far more concentrated indoors than outdoors.
• Proper ventilation during the drying cycle and limiting the use of dryer sheets can help reduce potential exposure to airborne chemicals.
• You can opt for dryer sheets labeled as “fragrance-free” or “hypoallergenic” to minimize exposure to potentially irritating compounds.

Environmental impacts:

• Disposing of used dryer sheets can contribute to environmental pollution, as some of the chemicals they contain may not be easily biodegradable.
• Dryer sheets may end up in landfills or bodies of water, where they can leach chemicals into soil and water and cause harm to wildlife.

While the scientific consensus on the overall safety of dryer sheets isn’t conclusive, consumers should consider the potential benefits and drawbacks based on their health concerns and preferences.

Are dryer sheets bad for your dryer?

There is some debate about whether dryer sheets can be detrimental to the performance and lifespan of clothes dryers. While moderate use of dryer sheets is generally considered safe for most dryers, excessive or prolonged use can potentially lead to machine issues. 

Here are some of the potential drawbacks of using dryer sheets in a clothes dryer:

Over time, the fabric softening agents and other chemicals in dryer sheets can leave behind a residue buildup on the dryer’s lint screen, interior surfaces, and sensors. This buildup can restrict airflow, reduce the dryer’s efficiency, and potentially lead to longer drying times.

If dryer sheet residue isn’t cleaned off, it can cause the dryer’s automatic shut-off or cycle-sensing features to malfunction, which can cause overdrying or incomplete drying of clothes.

To prevent dryer issues:

• Clean the lint screen after each drying cycle.
• Thoroughly clean the dryer’s interior and components at least once every 2-3 months.
• Consider using alternatives to dryer sheets, such as wool dryer balls or liquid fabric softeners.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations regarding the use of dryer sheets or other fabric-softening products.

Should you use dryer sheets? 

Using dryer sheets is a personal decision that you’ll have to make after considering the potential benefits and drawbacks for your household, such as health concerns and the impact on your machine.

While dryer sheets may be convenient for softening fabrics, adding fragrance and reducing wrinkles in your clothes, you may choose to avoid the chemicals, waste and residue that come from using them. Some people may also find that alternative options, such as liquid fabric softeners, wool dryer balls, or vinegar better suit their laundry needs. 

Best practices for using dryer sheets

If you choose dryer sheets, here’s what you should know to use them correctly:

• Always read and follow the instructions provided by the dryer sheet manufacturer. Different brands may have specific recommendations for usage, such as the number of sheets to use per load.
• Avoid using more dryer sheets than needed. Using one sheet per load is generally enough to get the desired results. Using excessive amounts of dryer sheets can damage your laundry and/or the dryer.
• Place the dryer sheet in the dryer at the beginning of the drying cycle so the sheet can be distributed evenly among the items as they tumble.
• Before adding the dryer sheet, make sure the lint trap is clean and remove any debris or lint from the dryer drum. This helps prevent any potential blockages or interference with the sheet.
•  If you or someone in your household has allergies or sensitivities to fragrances, opt for hypoallergenic dryer sheets or other unscented, chemical-free alternatives.
• Avoid drying delicate fabrics and those with flame-resistant or moisture-wicking properties with dryer sheets unless the garment care instructions specifically allow sheets to be used.
• Store dryer sheets in a cool, dry place to maintain their effectiveness.
• Clean the dryer drum, lint trap, and exhaust vent to prevent the accumulation of lint and residue from dryer sheets. This helps your dryer run smoothly and reduces the risk of fire hazards.

Alternatives to dryer sheets

There are several alternatives available that offer some of the same benefits of dryer sheets, without the drawbacks. Here are a few options to choose from:

Wool dryer balls

Made from natural materials, wool dryer balls work by bouncing around the inside of the dryer to fluff and separate the items, which helps reduce static and soften fabrics. Wool dryer balls can also help your laundry dry faster. If desired, you can add a few drops of essential oils to the wool dryer balls to make your laundry scented.

Aluminum foil ball

Simply crumple up a sheet of aluminum foil into a ball and toss it into the dryer with your clothes to reduce static cling. The ball will absorb electrical charges.

Air drying

Hanging your laundry – especially more delicate items – outside on a clothesline or indoors on a drying rack helps preserve the quality of your laundry so it lasts longer. It’s also a great way to save energy and prolong the life of your dryer.

Homemade, reusable dryer sheets

You can create homemade dryer sheets from fabric squares or old washcloths. Soak the fabric squares in a mixture of water and a few drops of essential oils, then let them dry completely. Toss one of these homemade dryer sheets into the dryer with your laundry to give it a fresh scent, then reuse it as often as you need.

Additional information

Thanks for reading! If you need replacement parts for your dryer or any of your other appliances, check out AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can enter your model number to find exactly what you’re looking for. Most orders arrive in two business days, and we have thousands of free resources to show you how to install your new parts.

You can also reach our award-winning customer service team at 1-877-477-7278, chat with a pro on our website and watch thousands of free video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!