Down-filled tumble dryer balls: What they’re for and how to use them
Drying balls can fluff up a down filling whilst drying. Here’s how to use them effectively and spot any residual moisture.
Drying balls move around in the drum alongside the bedding. This helps to fluff up the down filling whilst it is drying. They are a handy aid, but are no substitute for a suitable drying programme and checking for residual moisture.
What effect do the balls have?
Wet down can clump together. The movement in the tumble dryer gently shakes the filling and cover repeatedly. Tumble dryer balls can help with this and break up any clumps. Whether this works, and how well, also depends on how much space the pillows or duvets have in the drum.
Don’t rely on claims such as ‘dries faster and faster’. Different materials, fillings and appliance settings apply to different types of bedding. It is not possible to reliably deduce any specific time or energy savings from this.
How to make the most of your tumble dryer balls
First, check the care label: is tumble drying permitted? If so, select the programme specified on the label and the permitted temperature. Only put enough bed linen into the tumble dryer to allow it to move freely. Add the balls in accordance with the product instructions.
If necessary, pause the programme, remove the pillows and shake them out gently. This will allow you to check whether there are any damp or clumped areas left. Continue drying until the filling is completely dry. With thick pillows in particular, the outside often feels dry sooner than the centre.
Drying balls in the shop
Are tennis balls an alternative?
Clean, undamaged tennis balls are sometimes suggested as an alternative. However, they are not suitable for all types of bedding or tumble dryers. Their colour, abrasion, odour and noise may be a nuisance. You should therefore follow the instructions provided by the appliance and pillow manufacturers. Special tumble dryer balls with clear usage instructions are the more sensible choice.
What you shouldn’t forget
Drying balls won’t make an overfilled drum fit properly, and they can’t correct an unsuitable programme. Pillows with damp fillings don’t belong back in bed. If you don’t have a tumble dryer that’s big enough, or if the label states that tumble drying is not permitted, have your bedding professionally cleaned.
You can find the full care guide – from the label to washing and the final check – in Washing and drying down pillows. If you’re looking for a suitable remedy in advance, this article will help Which detergent is suitable for down?.