How dryer sheets work and if they’re good or bad for you (and your clothes).
Consumers usedryer sheetsas a way toreduce lint,prevent wrinkles, andget rid of static clingwhile drying clothes.
While dryer sheets generally are safe, there are ways to reduce their use, if desired.
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What’s in a Dryer Sheet?
Most sheets also contain fragrances.
The heat of the dryer slowly melts the softening compounds adhered to the sheet.
The compounds are then transferred to the fabrics.
The newly attached fatty acid chains make the fabric feel slippery or smoother.
This is most evident inbath towels.
Experts have expressed the greatest concern over the fragrances used in dryer sheets.
Warning
All types of dryer sheets are toxic to pets.
The 2011 studyraised concerns about the chemicals in dryer sheets.
Since some fragrances can trigger reactions, switching to a non-scented dryer sheet may alleviate some concerns.
Look for brands that carrythe Safer Choice sealissued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Reduce your exposure by using just half of a dryer sheet.
You’ll still get the benefits of softening and static reduction.
The balls also save money because they can be used for months and months and reduce landfill waste.
This will leave your clothing feeling softer and reduce scratchiness.
Wash Your Laundry Correctly
Handling your laundry correctlywill reduce the need for additional softening from dryer sheets.
Yes, dryer sheets can be toxic for dogs.
They contain cationic surfactants which can irritate their skin, mucous membranes, and stomach lining.
Instead of dryer sheets, it’s possible for you to opt to usewool dryer balls.
Dryer balls are a better option for those with sensitive skin than dryer sheets.
They are hypoallergenic and do not contain any chemicals.
They are also reusable for several months.
Code of Federal Regulations.
Title 21, Volume 3, 2020.
Department of Health and Human Services, United States Food and Drug Administration, 21CFR172.515.
Potera C.Scented Products Emit a Bouquet of VOCs.Environ Health Perspect.
2011;119(1):A16.
doi:10.1289/ehp.119-a16
Household Hazards.Merck Veterinary Manual.
Dryer Sheet Ingredient Safety.Michigan State University.
Poison Awareness Archives.Long Meadow Veterinary Clinic
