TL;DR — You don’t need dryer sheets for laundry, but they’re an easy, affordable solution to prevent static cling, soften fabrics, and make clothes smell better.

Raise your hand if you’ve ever stood in the laundry aisle, staring at a box of dryer sheets like it’s a question on an exam you didn’t study for. Do you buy them because your parents always did? Are they actually doing something, or are they just fabric softener’s flashier cousin?

Here’s the short answer: Dryer sheets aren’t absolutely necessary, but they’re incredibly useful. They reduce static, soften clothes, and make your laundry smell amazing.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about dryer sheets—how they work, when to skip them, and what you can use instead. By the end, you’ll know exactly where you stand in the great dryer sheet debate—and maybe even discover your new laundry MVP.

What Are Dryer Sheets?

Dryer sheets are thin sheets of fabric coated with a mix of fabric softeners, lubricants, and fragrances. When you toss them into the dryer, heat activates the coating, which improves your laundry in three key ways:

1. 1. Reduce Static: Dryer sheets deposit a thin layer of fabric conditioner onto your clothes, which reduces friction and stops that static buildup in its tracks.
2. 2. Soften Fabric: The same coating that fights static also softens fibers. The chemicals smooth out rough edges in the fabric, leaving clothes feeling softer and more pleasant to touch.
3. 3. Fragrance Boost: Dryer sheets are infused with scents that stick around after the dry cycle. We’re biased, but our luxury fragrances like Australian Sandalwood and Italian Bergamot smell way better than “fresh linen” or whatever supermarket scents you’re used to.

Are Dryer Sheets Necessary?

Dryer sheets aren’t 100% necessary on laundry day—your clothes will survive without them. That said, dryer sheets are an easy, all-in-one solution to soften your fabrics, fight static cling, and make your clothes smell irresistible.

In other words, dryer sheets are more of a luxury than a necessity. But if you struggle with static cling, want your fabrics to feel softer, or crave even more of that luxurious laundry fragrance, using dryer sheets is a no-brainer.

When to Not Use Dryer Sheets

Even dryer sheet super-fans need to know when to sit this one out. Here are a few instances to skip the dryer sheets:

1. 1. With Microfiber Towels: The residue from dryer sheets can reduce absorbency, which is kind of the whole point of a towel. That said, a lot of people still use dryer sheets with their towels—and honestly, we can't blame them.
2. 2. Activewear: Performance fabrics are designed to wick moisture, but dryer sheet residue can interfere with that.
3. 3. For Baby Clothes: The conditioners and fragrances in dryer sheets might irritate sensitive skin.
4. 4. On Flame-Resistant Fabrics: Dryer sheets can compromise the safety of flame-resistant materials, such as kids' pajamas.

What Can You Use Instead of Dryer Sheets?

If you’re not sold on dryer sheets or don’t have any on hand, don’t worry—here are a few easy swaps that deliver similar results:

1. 1. Wool Dryer Balls: These reusable wonders soften fabrics, reduce static, and can even speed up drying time. Toss 3-5 dryer balls into the drum and let them work their magic.
2. 2. Liquid Fabric Softener: Add a capful to your washer to prevent static cling and keep your clothes soft to the touch.
3. 3. Distilled White Vinegar: A splash in your washer’s rinse cycle works as a natural fabric softener (don’t worry—the vinegar smell washes out).

Common Questions About Using Dryer Sheets

Now that you’re an expert on dryer sheets, let’s cover some common questions about these laundry day legends.

1. Can You Reuse Dryer Sheets?

It’s best not to reuse dryer sheets. Once a dryer sheet has been through a cycle, its abilities to reduce static and soften fabrics are typically depleted.

2. Do Dryer Sheets Damage Dryers?

Dryer sheets don’t damage dryers, but the residue can build up on your lint filter over time. Clean it occasionally to keep your dryer running smoothly.

4. Can You Use Dryer Sheets and Dryer Balls Together?

Yes, you can use dryer sheets and dryer balls together, but it’s not necessary. Both serve similar purposes, so combining them might be overkill. Additionally, using both at the same time could diminish the effectiveness of the dryer balls, as the coating from the dryer sheets might interfere with how the dryer balls work. If you want the best of both worlds, try alternating between the two rather than using them simultaneously.

5. What’s the Difference Between Dryer Sheets and Fabric Softener?

Fabric softener is used in the wash cycle, while dryer sheets work in the dryer. Both soften clothes, but dryer sheets also reduce static and add fragrance.

The Final Verdict on Dryer Sheets

Dryer sheets might not be mandatory. But if you’re into laundry that doesn’t feel like it’s trying to electrocute you and want your clothes to smell sophisticated instead of synthetic, they’re a solid investment.

The only thing that’s mandatory on laundry day is swapping your lame scents for Laundry Sauce. Whether you’re craving the crisp, clean scent of Siberian Pine or the velvety allure of French Saffron, we’ve got the best-smelling dryer sheets in the game.