How to Stop Blanket from Balling Up in Dryer: Official Guide

Key Takeaways

Balance the load: Evenly distribute your laundry load to prevent tangling and clumping.
Choose the right settings: Use lower heat and longer drying cycles for better results.
Use dryer balls: Add dryer balls or tennis balls to separate blankets during the drying process.
Check during the cycle: Pause mid-cycle to fluff the blanket and adjust its position.
Mind your blanket material: Check care labels to ensure the right temperature and settings for each type of blanket.

If you’ve ever pulled a blanket out of the dryer only to find it balled up and still damp, you’re not alone. It’s frustrating, especially when you expect it to come out fluffy and dry.

Let’s dive into a few foolproof methods to help you avoid this common issue. The good news is there are some simple steps that can make a huge difference, so your blankets come out perfectly soft and dry every time.

How to Prevent Blanket from Balling Up in Dryer

The key to stopping your blanket from balling up in the dryer is proper technique, and it all starts with how you load your laundry. Overloading the dryer or using the wrong settings is a surefire way to end up with a balled-up blanket. Here are a few ways to prevent it:

Balance the Load
One of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent blankets from balling up is to balance the load in the dryer. When the load is uneven or too large, your blanket tends to get twisted and balled up. To avoid this, dry your blanket along with other light items like towels, but avoid putting in too many items at once. A balanced load helps the dryer’s tumbling motion keep the blanket from twisting.
Use Dryer Balls or Tennis Balls
Another great trick is to throw in a few dryer balls or clean tennis balls with your blanket. These balls bounce around, helping to separate the blanket as it dries and preventing it from rolling into a tight ball. Not only do they help with the blanket staying untangled, but they also reduce drying time by promoting better air circulation.
Choose the Right Settings
Using the correct settings is crucial when drying blankets. Opt for a low or medium heat setting with a longer drying cycle to avoid overheating and shrinkage. A lower heat cycle gives the blanket more time to dry evenly, rather than causing the outer layers to dry too quickly, which leads to balling. For thicker blankets, you may need to pause the dryer partway through and manually shake them out to ensure all parts dry evenly.
Pause and Fluff Mid-Cycle
One of my personal favorites is pausing the dryer mid-cycle. I usually open the dryer about halfway through the cycle and fluff the blanket by hand. This simple step can work wonders in preventing a balled-up mess. It redistributes the fabric, allowing the blanket to dry more uniformly.

Using a Puffy Lux Mattress can enhance your sleep comfort, reducing the need for heavy blankets that often get balled up in the dryer.

How to Dry Large Blankets Without Balling Up

Drying larger blankets, like comforters or wool throws, can be especially tricky since they’re prone to tangling. Here’s how to tackle these larger items:

Dry Blankets Individually
For large blankets, it’s best to dry them alone or with just a couple of small items. This minimizes tangling and allows for more even air circulation. You can also pause the cycle to check the blanket’s progress and reposition it if necessary.
Fold Your Blanket
Before placing your blanket into the dryer, folding it loosely can help. By creating a bit of structure in the fold, you can prevent the blanket from twisting into itself, reducing the chances of it balling up during the spin.

Best Dryer Settings for Blankets

The best dryer setting for blankets can vary depending on the material, but here are some general rules:

Low to Medium Heat: High heat can cause shrinkage and damage the fabric, especially with delicate blankets.
Longer Cycle: Opt for a longer drying cycle on lower heat rather than a short, high-heat one.
Timed Dry: Some dryers have a ‘timed dry’ option that lets you choose the cycle length manually, which can be helpful for heavier blankets.

Pairing lightweight blankets with a Puffy Cloud Mattress keeps you cozy without overheating, reducing the frequency of dryer cycles.

Conclusion

Keeping your blankets from balling up in the dryer is a simple task if you follow these best practices. Whether you’re using dryer balls, adjusting your settings, or pausing mid-cycle, these little adjustments make a big difference.

By treating your blankets with care, you’ll enjoy soft, cozy results every time—and they’ll last longer too.