Dryer sheets stop static cling, soften your clothes and add a fresh scent while they dry. You don't strictly need them, but they make the most difference in winter and on loads full of fleece, polyester and gym clothes, which build up the most static.
What are dryer sheets for?
A dryer sheet is a thin sheet that carries fabric softener and, usually, a fragrance. You put it in the dryer with your wet laundry, and as everything tumbles, the heat releases the softener onto your clothes. You get:
- no static, so clothes don't cling to each other or to you
- softer towels and cotton tees, with fewer wrinkles
- a fresh smell, unless you pick a fragrance free sheet
"Love the light scent and the softness of my laundry!"
Tammy, verified buyer, Ocean Breeze dryer sheets
Do you need dryer sheets?
No, your clothes will dry fine without them. What you'll notice is static, especially on fleece, polyester and athletic wear, and towels that feel a bit stiffer. Static is worst in winter, when the air is dry and the heat is on, so that's when most people reach for a sheet.
They matter less if your loads are mostly cotton, or if you use wool dryer balls, which soften laundry and speed up drying without a sheet. Plenty of people use both, with wool dryer balls in every load and a sheet when they want scent or the load is full of synthetics.
How to use dryer sheets
- Put your wet laundry in the dryer.
- Lay the dryer sheets on top. Use 1 for a small load, 2 for a medium load and 3 for a large load, and add one more for an extra large load.
- Dry as normal.
- Take the sheet out with your clothes and throw it away, or keep it for dusting.
Any household dryer works, top-load or front-load, gas or electric.
"These sheets do what their job is - keep my laundry soft, static free, smelling clean!"
Susan W., verified buyer, Fragrance Free dryer sheets
What not to use dryer sheets on
Leave the sheet out for:
- athletic wear and other moisture-wicking fabrics, because the softener coats the fibers and they don't pull sweat away as well
- microfiber cloths and towels, which absorb less once they're coated
- children's sleepwear labeled flame resistant, so check the care label
Dryer sheets vs fabric softener
Liquid fabric softener goes in the washer during the rinse, and dryer sheets go in the dryer. Both soften clothes and help with static. A sheet is easier because there's nothing to measure or pour, and liquid softener can leave buildup in the machine.
"Smells nice and softens in the dryer. No fabric softener gunk in my washing machine."
Wendy, verified buyer, Ocean Breeze dryer sheets
We compare dryer sheets with dryer balls in dryer balls vs dryer sheets.
Can you reuse dryer sheets?
Not in the dryer. Most of the softener comes off in the first cycle, so a used sheet won't do much for the next load. It's still useful around the house, though.
Other uses for dryer sheets
Used sheets are good for:
- dusting shelves, blinds, baseboards and the TV screen
- picking pet hair off the sofa or a coat
- tucking into shoes or a gym bag overnight
- wiping soap scum off a glass shower door
A fresh sheet is better for scent, so put an unused one in a drawer, a suitcase or the linen closet.
HeySunday Dryer Sheets
Non-toxic dryer sheets made with biodegradable cellulose fibers, in Ocean Breeze or Fragrance Free. 30 sheets a pack, and 40% off with Subscribe & Save.
Free shipping on every order.
Dryer sheet FAQs
What happens if I don't use dryer sheets?
Your clothes still dry, but you'll get more static, especially on synthetic fabrics, and towels can feel stiffer. Your laundry won't have any added scent either.
Do I actually need dryer sheets?
If static is a problem in your house, yes. If it isn't, you can skip them or use wool dryer balls instead.
How many dryer sheets should I use?
Use 1 for a small load, 2 for a medium load and 3 for a large load, plus one more for an extra large load.
What should you not use dryer sheets with?
Skip them for athletic and moisture-wicking clothes, microfiber, and children's sleepwear labeled flame resistant.
What else are dryer sheets good for?
Used dryer sheets are good for dusting, picking up pet hair and freshening shoes or gym bags. Put a new one in a drawer or suitcase to keep things smelling fresh.
