Fighting static cling can be quite a battle if you live in a climate that has cool, dry air for most of the year. Since every area has a slightly different climate, some will find that some methods for fighting static cling work great, while others do not. So you may have to experiment a little to see which method works best for you. Here are several creative options for getting rid of static cling:

1. Fabric Softeners and Dryer Sheets – Fabric softeners and dryer sheets have long been considered the most effective way to get rid of static cling. However, these products are usually laden with toxic chemicals and can be harmful to those with sensitive skin. Furthermore, many consumers report that they are not as effective as claimed to be by manufacturers and that some leave a grimy, scented film on cleaned clothes.

Still, throwing in a bit of sweet smelling softener or a dryer sheet is easy to do and many consumers will choose the option to fight cling. If you think these products are right for you, then try and find a manufacturer that minimizes the product’s chemical content. Seventh Generation makes eco-friendly fabric softeners and biodegradable dryer sheets, both that come scented or unscented. You can also look for brands that offer a softener or sheet for baby clothes – this product should be mild and also a good option for those with sensitive skin.

For those who do not like fabric softeners and dryer sheets or who cannot afford to spend the money to buy them, there are several low-cost or free options for fighting static cling:

2. Use Tennis Balls - Throw a tennis ball or two into the dryer; this method is actually quite effective. However, you will have to deal with the sound of the balls banging around in the dryer.

3. Use Vinegar – Put half a cup of vinegar into the wash cycle, as it is a natural fabric softener. However, do not mix vinegar and bleach as this creates toxic fumes. Don’t worry; your clothes will not come out smelling of vinegar, since you’re only to put in a small amount.

4. Use a Spray Bottle – When folding clothes occasionally mist them with water from a spray bottle. This should help you avoid any nasty shocks.

5. Use a Wet Wash Cloth – Wring out a wet washcloth and then throw it into the dryer the last 5 to 15 minutes of the cycle. Make sure the dryer is on high heat for the last few minutes; this should cut down on static substantially.

6. Don’t Dry Clothes Completely – This is the oldest trick in the book, and truly the most effective. Line dried clothes have zero static cling. So if you take the clothes out of your dryer just before they’re completely dry and leave them to dry the rest of the way on racks – you’ll have no cling. The downside to this is that you add another step to the process of doing laundry, and it takes more effort.

For additional help or how-to information, locate your dryer user’s manual in the OwnerIQ Library.