What to Use Instead of Dryer Sheets

We all love the feeling of fresh, soft, and wrinkle-free clothes straight from the dryer.

Dryer sheets have long been the go-to solution for achieving these desirable qualities, but did you know that some of the chemicals in dryer sheets can be harmful to your health and the environment? Fortunately, there are safer alternatives than dryer sheets that can give you the same great results without the risks. Instead of reaching for dryer sheets, try these natural solutions—here’s why they’re a better choice for you and your family.

Harmful Ingredients In Dryer Sheets to Humans

While dryer sheets may seem like a harmless way to soften clothes and add a pleasant scent, it’s important to be aware of the potentially harmful chemicals they contain. Here are some common ingredients found in dryer sheets that could pose health risks!

Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs)

Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs) are often used as fabric softeners in dryer sheets. However, exposure to these compounds can lead to skin irritation and respiratory issues, especially in individuals with asthma or other sensitivities.

Some studies have also linked QACs to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, raising additional concerns about their widespread use [1].

Fragrance Chemicals

There’s nothing fresh about the fresh scent of dryer sheets. These aromas typically come from a blend of synthetic fragrance chemicals, which may include phthalates. 

Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the body’s hormone systems. Exposure to these chemicals can lead to reproductive and developmental issues, as well as allergic reactions and respiratory problems [2].

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are used in dryer sheets as solvents to help disperse other ingredients and to carry fragrances [3]. Some VOCs, such as acetaldehyde and benzene, may be byproducts of other ingredients in the dryer sheets. 

These compounds are associated with a range of health effects, including headaches, dizziness, respiratory irritation, and even an increased risk of cancer with long-term exposure [4].

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is sometimes added to dryer sheets as an antimicrobial agent [5]. It’s also used to aid with wrinkle release in fabrics, which can be released after a hot dryer cycle. 

Don’t whiff up formaldehyde straight out of the dryer. Formaldehyde can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and other adverse health effects [6]. 

Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde can increase the risk of developing certain cancers, making its presence in everyday household products particularly concerning [7].

Microplastics

Some dryer sheets contain microplastics, which are tiny plastic particles that can be shed during the drying process. Many dryer sheets are made of polyester [8]. Polyester sheds microplastics when enduring the heat of a dryer [9]. 

These microplastics can contribute to environmental pollution, particularly in waterways, where they can harm marine life [10]. 

While research is still ongoing, recent studies have linked microplastics in human blood vessels to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and death. 

Natural Alternatives to Dryer Sheets

Switching to natural alternatives doesn’t mean sacrificing the softness and freshness of your clothes. In fact, with a few simple changes, you can achieve the same results without exposing yourself or the environment to harmful chemicals. Here are some effective ways to soften your fabrics and reduce static cling—naturally!

How to Soften Fabric Without Dryer Sheets

• Wool Dryer Balls
  Wool dryer balls are an excellent substitute for dryer sheets. These reusable balls help to soften fabrics by physically agitating them, reducing wrinkles, and even cutting down on drying time. Plus, they can last for hundreds of loads, making them a sustainable and cost-effective option.
• Vinegar in the Rinse Cycle
  Adding a half-cup of white vinegar to your washing machine’s rinse cycle is a simple way to naturally soften fabrics. The vinegar helps to break down any detergent residue left on your clothes, leaving them soft and fresh. Don’t worry about the smell—vinegar’s odor goes away as your clothes dry.
• Baking Soda
  Baking soda is another natural fabric softener. By adding a small amount to your laundry, you can help to soften your clothes while also neutralizing odors. Baking soda works by regulating the pH level in the wash, making your detergent more effective and your clothes softer.

How to Reduce Static Cling Without Dryer Sheets

• Aluminum Foil Balls
  Rolling a sheet of aluminum foil into a ball and tossing it into the dryer can effectively reduce static cling. The foil acts as a conductor, discharging the static electricity that builds up in your clothes, leaving them static-free without the need for chemical-laden dryer sheets.
• Separating Synthetic and Natural Fibers
  Static cling is more likely to occur when synthetic and natural fibers are dried together. To minimize static, try drying synthetic fabrics separately from natural ones. This simple step can make a big difference in reducing static cling.
• Reducing Drying Time
  Over-drying clothes can increase static cling. By reducing the drying time or using a lower heat setting, you can prevent static from building up in your clothes while also saving energy and prolonging the life of your garments.

Common Questions About Dryer Sheets

Are Fragrance-Free Dryer Sheets Safe?

Fragrance-free dryer sheets may seem like a safer option, but they can still contain other harmful ingredients, such as QACs and VOCs, which can pose health risks. It's important to check the label and consider natural alternatives.

Do Dryer Sheets Pollute the Air?

Yes, dryer sheets can release VOCs and other harmful chemicals into the air during the drying process. These pollutants can contribute to indoor air pollution and may cause respiratory irritation and other health issues.

Are Dryer Sheets Bad for the Environment?

Yes, dryer sheets are single-use products that often end up in landfills, contributing to waste. Additionally, some dryer sheets contain microplastics that can enter the soil, water, and air. The heat from dryers can also release VOCs and microplastics into both indoor and outdoor air, further impacting the environment.

How to Reduce Microplastics in Laundry

Microplastics from laundry are a significant source of pollution. Here are some tips to reduce microplastic release:

• Wash full loads: Washing full loads of laundry reduces the friction between clothes, which can help minimize the release of microfibers.
• Use colder water: Hot water can break down fabrics more quickly, leading to more microfiber shedding. Cold water is gentler on clothes and reduces this risk. With modern washing machines, cold water gets your clothes just as clean as hot water!
• Avoid liquid detergents: Liquid detergents can increase the release of microfibers compared to powder detergents.
• Use a microfiber filter: Installing a microfiber filter in your washing machine can capture microplastics before they enter the water system.
• Air dry when possible: Air drying clothes reduces the wear and tear from tumbling in the dryer, which can also help minimize microfiber release.

Get Tested for Phthalates and Other Harmful Chemicals

If you're concerned about exposure to phthalates and other harmful chemicals, consider using Million Marker’s Detect & Detox Test Kit. This test can help you identify toxic chemical exposures and take steps to reduce your risk. Get a personalized report with practical tips for minimizing your exposure to harmful chemicals. Freshen up your wellness routine by saying “goodbye” to dryer sheets and “hello” to a healthier you!

Resources

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK594254/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7559247/
[3] https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11869-020-00928-1
[4] https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality
[5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37706536/
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3168108/
[7] https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/formaldehyde/
[8] https://draxe.com/health/dryer-sheets/
[9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9000408/
[10] https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/envhealth.3c00052