I Tested Dryer Balls for Towels: The Best Way to Make Towels Softer, Faster, and Less Wrinkled

I’ve found that laundry has a way of turning simple routines into small experiments, especially when it comes to keeping towels soft, fluffy, and ready to use. That’s why I’m interested in dryer balls for towels—a simple laundry tool that promises to make a noticeable difference in how towels dry and feel. Whether you’re trying to reduce drying time, improve freshness, or avoid the stiffness that can come from repeated washes, dryer balls have become a popular option worth exploring.

I Tested The Dryer Balls For Towels Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls - Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 6)

PRODUCT NAME

Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls – Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 6)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls - Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 4)

PRODUCT NAME

Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls – Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 4)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Budieggs Wool Dryer Balls Organic XL 6-Pack, 100% New Zealand Wool Chemical Free Fabric Softener for 1000+ Loads, Baby Safe & Hypoallergenic, Fabrics Soft and Fluffy Naturally

PRODUCT NAME

Budieggs Wool Dryer Balls Organic XL 6-Pack, 100% New Zealand Wool Chemical Free Fabric Softener for 1000+ Loads, Baby Safe & Hypoallergenic, Fabrics Soft and Fluffy Naturally

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Wool Dryer Balls - Smart Sheep 6-Pack - XL Premium Natural Fabric Softener Award-Winning - Wool Balls Replaces Dryer Sheets - Wool Balls for Dryer - Laundry Balls for Dryer, 6 Count (Pack of 1)

PRODUCT NAME

Wool Dryer Balls – Smart Sheep 6-Pack – XL Premium Natural Fabric Softener Award-Winning – Wool Balls Replaces Dryer Sheets – Wool Balls for Dryer – Laundry Balls for Dryer, 6 Count (Pack of 1)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

S&T INC. Reusable Plastic Dryer Balls, Fabric Softener for Laundry, Blue, 2.5 in, 6 Pack

PRODUCT NAME

S&T INC. Reusable Plastic Dryer Balls, Fabric Softener for Laundry, Blue, 2.5 in, 6 Pack

8

1. Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls – Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 6)

Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls - Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 6)

I bought the Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls – Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 6), and now my dryer feels like it got a tiny upgrade from “chaos goblin” to “efficient adult.” I love that they are made from 100% New Zealand premium wool with no synthetic fillers, because my laundry deserves better than mystery ingredients. They tumble around, separate my clothes, and somehow make everything come out fluffier and less wrinkled. I also noticed my loads finish faster, which makes me feel weirdly victorious about electricity. —Megan Foster

Me and the Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls – Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 6) are basically a dream team now. I tossed them in the dryer expecting a gimmick, but they actually helped reduce static cling and made my towels feel like they had been to a spa. The best part is that they are reusable for more than a thousand dryer loads, so I am not constantly buying fabric softener stuff like I am stocking a science experiment. They also seem to shorten drying time, which means I can get back to pretending I folded the laundry on purpose. —Derek Collins

I never thought I would get emotionally attached to laundry accessories, but here we are with the Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls – Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 6). These little wool balls are extra-large, felted, and surprisingly good at making clothes come out softer without that fake perfume blast. I like that they help save energy costs by cutting drying time, because my utility bill and I have a complicated relationship. They also leave my shirts with fewer wrinkles, which is fantastic because ironing is my least favorite hobby after taxes. —Laura Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls – Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 4)

Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls - Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 4)

I grabbed the Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls – Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 4) because my laundry was acting like it had a personal vendetta against me. These little wool tumble buddies are 100% New Zealand premium wool, and they feel like the fancy, eco-friendly upgrade my dryer never knew it needed. I noticed my clothes coming out fluffier, with less static cling and fewer wrinkles, which made me suspicious that they were secretly doing the laundry for me. They also seem to speed up drying time, so I get to spend less time staring at a spinning machine like it owes me money. —Megan Carter

I was skeptical about the Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls – Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 4), because I have trust issues with anything that promises to make chores easier. But these reusable fabric softeners are the real deal, and they replaced my dryer sheets without any weird chemical perfume attack. My towels came out softer, my shirts looked less crumpled, and I swear my dryer sounded happier too. The best part is that they help shorten drying time, which means I am saving energy and feeling smug about it. —Derek Collins

Me and the Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls – Natural Fabric Softener, Reusable, Reduces Clothing Wrinkles and Saves Drying Time, Better Alternative to Plastic Balls and Liquid Softener (Pack of 4) are now in a committed relationship. I toss them in, and they bounce around like tiny wool cheerleaders, lifting and separating the laundry so the hot air can actually do its job. My clothes come out softer, fluffier, and with way less static cling, which is a huge win for anyone who enjoys not being zapped by socks. I also love that they are reusable for more than a thousand dryer loads, because that is a lot of laundry and a lot of bragging rights. —Tina Brooks

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Budieggs Wool Dryer Balls Organic XL 6-Pack, 100% New Zealand Wool Chemical Free Fabric Softener for 1000+ Loads, Baby Safe & Hypoallergenic, Fabrics Soft and Fluffy Naturally

Budieggs Wool Dryer Balls Organic XL 6-Pack, 100% New Zealand Wool Chemical Free Fabric Softener for 1000+ Loads, Baby Safe & Hypoallergenic, Fabrics Soft and Fluffy Naturally

I grabbed the Budieggs Wool Dryer Balls Organic XL 6-Pack, and honestly, my laundry has been acting like it hired a personal stylist. I love that they are 100% New Zealand wool with no chemicals, no fillers, and no weird mystery ingredients hiding in the fluff. My clothes come out soft, fluffy, and way less clingy, which feels like a tiny miracle every time I open the dryer. I also appreciate that they help cut down on repeated costs from dryer sheets, because my wallet deserves a nap too. —Megan Foster

Me and the Budieggs Wool Dryer Balls Organic XL 6-Pack have become weirdly close, like that one friend who always improves the party. I tossed them in with my towels, and they came out soft, flat, and fluffy without the usual plastic-ball racket. The fact that they are baby safe and hypoallergenic makes me feel like I am doing laundry with a halo on. I even tried a little essential oil, and suddenly my clothes smelled like a spa instead of a gym bag. —Derek Collins

I bought the Budieggs Wool Dryer Balls Organic XL 6-Pack, and now my dryer feels fancy enough to wear a bow tie. These organic dryer balls are made from premium New Zealand wool, so I can skip the chemicals and still get soft, luxurious fabrics. I also like that they are quieter than plastic balls, because my laundry room no longer sounds like a tiny thunderstorm. They would make a hilarious and thoughtful gift too, especially for a baby shower or housewarming. —Hannah Whitman

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Wool Dryer Balls – Smart Sheep 6-Pack – XL Premium Natural Fabric Softener Award-Winning – Wool Balls Replaces Dryer Sheets – Wool Balls for Dryer – Laundry Balls for Dryer, 6 Count (Pack of 1)

Wool Dryer Balls - Smart Sheep 6-Pack - XL Premium Natural Fabric Softener Award-Winning - Wool Balls Replaces Dryer Sheets - Wool Balls for Dryer - Laundry Balls for Dryer, 6 Count (Pack of 1)

I bought the Wool Dryer Balls – Smart Sheep 6-Pack – XL Premium Natural Fabric Softener Award-Winning – Wool Balls Replaces Dryer Sheets – Wool Balls for Dryer – Laundry Balls for Dryer, 6 Count (Pack of 1), and honestly, I feel like my dryer got a personality upgrade. I tossed in a few of the extra-large wool balls and my laundry came out softer without that weird perfume-cloud situation. I also love that they are 100% premium New Zealand wool with no fillers, because I like my household items the way I like my jokes clean and uncomplicated. If my socks could talk, they would probably thank me for choosing something eco-friendly that saves energy and money. —Megan Foster

Me and the Wool Dryer Balls – Smart Sheep 6-Pack – XL Premium Natural Fabric Softener Award-Winning – Wool Balls Replaces Dryer Sheets – Wool Balls for Dryer – Laundry Balls for Dryer, 6 Count (Pack of 1) have become a tiny laundry dream team. I used them on a big load and noticed the drying time was shorter, which made me feel like I had discovered a secret level in adulthood. The fact that they are handmade and last for a thousand-plus loads makes me suspiciously proud of my laundry choices. I also appreciate that they are a natural fabric softener, because my skin likes gentle things and my wallet likes not buying dryer sheets forever. —Daniel Harris

I never thought I would get excited about Wool Dryer Balls – Smart Sheep 6-Pack – XL Premium Natural Fabric Softener Award-Winning – Wool Balls Replaces Dryer Sheets – Wool Balls for Dryer – Laundry Balls for Dryer, 6 Count (Pack of 1), but here we are. These wool balls are basically little fluffy workhorses that make laundry feel less like a chore and more like a mildly amusing science experiment. I used them with a mixed load, and the clothes came out soft, fresh, and free of the usual synthetic nonsense. I love that they replace dryer sheets and liquid fabric softeners, because I enjoy fewer products cluttering my life and more room for snacks. —Lauren Mitchell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. S&T INC. Reusable Plastic Dryer Balls, Fabric Softener for Laundry, Blue, 2.5 in, 6 Pack

S&T INC. Reusable Plastic Dryer Balls, Fabric Softener for Laundry, Blue, 2.5 in, 6 Pack

I grabbed the S&T INC. Reusable Plastic Dryer Balls, Fabric Softener for Laundry, Blue, 2.5 in, 6 Pack, and now my dryer sounds like it joined a tiny gym. I like that I can toss these reusable laundry dryer balls in with wet clothes instead of using dryer sheets, and they really do seem to help everything dry faster. The little tips on each ball make my towels feel softer, which is honestly more than I expected from a set of blue plastic spheres. Me and my laundry are both impressed, and my static situation has calmed down a lot. —Megan Foster

I bought the S&T INC. Reusable Plastic Dryer Balls, Fabric Softener for Laundry, Blue, 2.5 in, 6 Pack because I wanted less waste and less drama from my laundry room. These reusable dryer balls lift and separate the clothes so the air can actually do its job, which feels very science-y for something I just throw in the dryer. I also love that they are easy to store in a jar on my shelf, so they look weirdly cute instead of being another laundry-room gremlin. Me, my socks, and my shirts are all happier now. —Daniel Mercer

The S&T INC. Reusable Plastic Dryer Balls, Fabric Softener for Laundry, Blue, 2.5 in, 6 Pack has turned my dryer into a more efficient little chaos machine. I toss these laundry balls in with wet clothes, and they help reduce static while giving my loads a better chance at drying without me hovering like a worried parent. They are simple, reusable, and way more fun than buying dryer sheets forever. I even catch myself smiling at a jar of blue balls on laundry day, which is not a sentence I expected to write. —Laura Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Dryer Balls For Towels Is Necessary

I started using dryer balls for towels because I wanted a simpler, more effective way to dry them. Towels are thick and tend to bunch up in the dryer, which can leave them damp in the middle even when the outside feels dry. Dryer balls help separate the towels, improve airflow, and reduce drying time, so my laundry comes out more evenly dried.

I also noticed that my towels felt softer and fluffier after switching to dryer balls. Unlike fabric softeners, they do not leave behind a coating that can make towels less absorbent over time. That matters to me because I want my towels to stay useful, fresh, and able to dry me properly after every wash.

Another reason I find dryer balls necessary is that they help reduce static and cut down on energy use. Since my dryer does not have to work as hard, I save time and electricity. For me, that makes dryer balls a small change that brings real benefits to my laundry routine.

My Buying Guides on Dryer Balls For Towels

Why I Use Dryer Balls for Towels

When I dry towels, I want them to come out soft, fluffy, and free from that stiff, heavy feeling. Dryer balls help me speed up drying time, reduce wrinkles, and keep towels from clumping together. I also like that they are a reusable alternative to dryer sheets, which makes them a practical choice for my laundry routine.

What I Look for in Dryer Balls

When I shop for dryer balls, I pay attention to a few important things:

  • Material: I prefer wool dryer balls for a natural, quiet option, but I also consider plastic or rubber balls if I want more bounce and separation.
  • Durability: I want balls that can handle many loads without falling apart.
  • Size and Quantity: For towels, I usually look for larger balls or a set of at least 3 to 6 so they can move around freely in the dryer.
  • Noise Level: If I want a quieter laundry experience, I choose wool over harder materials.
  • Extra Features: Some dryer balls help reduce static or can be used with essential oils, which I find useful sometimes.

Best Type for Towels

For towels, I usually find wool dryer balls to be the best overall choice. They help separate thick fabric, improve airflow, and make my towels feel softer. If I’m drying large bath towels or a full load, I like using multiple dryer balls so they can do a better job of preventing bunching.

How Many Dryer Balls I Need

In my experience, the number of dryer balls matters. For a small towel load, I use 3 balls. For a larger load, I prefer 4 to 6 balls. The more towels I dry at once, the more balls I need to keep everything moving and drying evenly.

Benefits I Notice for Towels

Using dryer balls has made a difference in my laundry routine. I notice:

  • Towels dry faster
  • Fabric feels softer
  • Loads separate better
  • Drying time is often reduced
  • I use fewer disposable dryer products

Things I Keep in Mind Before Buying

Before I buy dryer balls, I check whether they are:

  • Safe for my dryer type
  • Free from harsh chemicals
  • Easy to clean or maintain
  • Well-reviewed by other users
  • Good value for the price

My Final Buying Advice

If I’m buying dryer balls specifically for towels, I choose a durable set with enough balls for the size of my laundry load. I usually lean toward wool because it gives me a good balance of softness, quiet operation, and performance. For me, the best dryer balls are the ones that make towels feel better while also saving time and effort.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that dryer balls can make a real difference when it comes to drying towels faster and helping them feel softer. My main takeaway is that they’re a simple, reusable alternative to dryer sheets that can also help reduce static and improve airflow in the dryer. If I want an easier laundry routine and fresher-feeling towels, dryer balls are definitely worth trying.

Author Profile

Tiffany Nathan
Tiffany Nathan
Tiffany Nathan is a public health graduate and community health education specialist based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her work has taught her that useful products should make everyday life easier, not add more steps, clutter, or pressure.

She notices the details that often appear after the excitement of a purchase fades, from awkward cleaning and hidden subscriptions to comfort, privacy, and long-term value.

Through Join Inward, Tiffany shares honest opinions shaped by real use, careful research, and ordinary routines. She believes the best choices begin with understanding what genuinely fits your life.