Dealing With Static Dryer Cling In The Winter

Static dryer cling is typically more common and problematic during the winter months. Normally, moisture in the air works to dissipate static electricity, but the dry winter air prevents this from occurring. The cool air holds less moisture, which subsequently allows electricity to travel more easily. If you’re tired of handling clothes that stick together and/or shock you due to static electricity, keep reading for some simple solutions on how to prevent it.

Before we go reveal how to prevent static dryer cling, let’s first discuss the science behind it. Although you can’t see it, electricity flows freely through dry air. When your hair comes in contact with it, for instance, the electricity transfers to your hair to create a wild and unruly hairdo (think Einstein). Clothes often develop static electricity in the dryer, as the combination of dry air and friction creates the perfect cocktail for this scientific phenomenon to occur.

One simple yet effective way to prevent static electricity on your clothes is to use dryer sheets. You can pick up a box of 50 of them for only a couple of bucks, making it an inexpensive solution to static dryer cling in the winter. Just toss one or two into the dryer each time you do a load of clothes and it will do the rest. Dryer sheets are made with positively-charged ingredients that automatically release when exposed to heat and motion; thus, neutralizing electrical charges

Although they are designed for use in dryers, you can actually use dryer sheets to remove static cling on your garments or hair as well. If you’re having an unruly hair day caused by static electricity, rub a dryer sheet over it. In just seconds, it will neutralize the charge, giving you control over your hair once again.

It’s important to note that some fabrics and materials are more prone to developing static cling than others. Wool is a material that’s notorious for attracting static. The soft, fine fibers attract and hold electrical charges more easily than cotton, polyester, and most other fabrics. If you can, try to avoid wearing wool shirts or clothes in the winter.

Depending on the severity of your static electricity problem, you may want to invest in a humidifier. Going back to the basics of this phenomenon, static cling is caused primarily by dry air; therefore, making the air inside your home more moist will naturally deter static cling.