Have you ever found yourself in a situation where, after three drying cycles, you still pull out a blanket with a wet center core, while the edges are already screaming for cooling? Drying larger pieces of bedding is one of the most frustrating household tasks for many. It's no wonder that people look for all sorts of tricks to make the job easier - from aluminum foil to special dryer balls.
And then comes a piece of advice that sounds almost too funny to be true: “Throw some tennis balls in the dryer.” After initial doubt comes experimentation – and the result? Faster drying, less wrinkles and noticeably fluffier bedding. You could say that tennis balls are entering your laundry routine with the same confidence as Novak Djokovic enters center court.
Why (and how) tennis balls work in the dryer
Increased air circulation = faster drying
Tennis balls, similar to specialized ones dryer balls made of wool, they constantly separate the crumpled layers of fabric as they spin in the drum. This improves the flow of hot air between the fibers, which means less time in the dryer and more evenly dried textiles.
Tennis balls act as mechanical separators between items of laundry, preventing blankets and quilts from bunching up or collapsing into a single, large, lumpy knot that traps moisture.
Fluffing and redistribution of filling
Tennis balls play a significant role in redistributing the filling in duvets – whether natural down, synthetic fibres or cotton. Their bouncy nature evenly distributes the contents during drying and prevents the formation of hard, damp lumps.
This prevents the “compactness effect” that usually occurs when filling dries unevenly – meaning your blanket retains its volume, shape and that freshly blown-up feel we all love.
Are tennis balls safe for the washer and dryer?
Washing machine: Just not with boiling water, please
Tennis balls are safe to use in the washing machine if you follow a few basic rules:
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- Use cold or warm water, as hot water can deform the rubber core of the balls.
- It is recommended to insert them into laundry bag or old cotton sockto reduce noise and protect the inside of the drum.
- Let them be new ones – old, worn or dirty balls can leave stains and damage textiles.
Tumble Dryer: Thermal Science in Practice
The trick is also completely safe in the dryer – as long as you use new and clean balls and set low to medium temperatureHigh temperatures can damage both the ball and the fabric, so avoid drying cycles labeled “intensive” or “hot.”
Wool dryer balls, although great for reducing static, they don't have the same bounce, so they cannot loosen the filling inside thicker blankets or down jackets as effectively.
How to properly use tennis balls in the dryer – step by step
Check the balls: Use only new ones tennis balls, without worn surfaces, dust or damage.
Add them to the blanket: Add to the drum with the freshly washed blanket three to four ballsYou can protect them with a cotton sock or a laundry bag.
Choose the right setting: Dry on low or medium temperatureIf a blanket program is available, use it.
Check the condition during drying: If you notice damp spots after the first cycle, shake the blanket, rearrange the balls, and run another short cycle if necessary.
When NOT to use tennis balls
Tennis balls are winning at large, bulky products, such as:
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- quilts
- down jackets
- sleeping bags
- larger pillows
A are not suitable for:
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- delicate fabrics (silk, lace)
- Underwear
- small pieces of laundry where their use has no effect
A home trick that has a scientific basis
Tennis balls aren't just a cheap and fun experiment—they're actually a mechanical solution based on the simple physics of motion and airflow. If you're looking for a way to improve the efficiency of your washing and drying, and extend the life of your linens, this trick is worth every second—and the balls, every penny.
