The Best Non-Toxic Dryer Sheets: Stay Fresh Without Toxins!
There might be no pleasure so simple as pulling a pile of warm, soft clothing from the dryer. The comfort you get from hugging that heap of hoodies and hand towels is second to none. Dryer sheets take things up a notch by ensuring your clothes emerge from the dryer static-free, luxuriously soft, and fresh-scented. But there is a dark side to dryer sheets: they may be laced with artificial fragrances and other potentially toxic chemicals. The good news? There are many brands of non-toxic dryer sheets out there.
What are Non-Toxic Dryer Sheets, Exactly?
While everyone is familiar with dryer sheets and what they do, many people may not be familiar with what they contain. Ordinary dryer sheets can be rife with artificial chemicals and toxins that are bad for your health and for the planet.
In fact, many people can have a dryer sheet allergy due to the inclusion of harmful compounds. Ingredients like benzene, benzyl alcohol, parabens, and ammonium are dangerous if ingested, making many dryer sheets a bad choice for your family.
Fortunately, non-toxic dryer sheets are free from these noxious chemicals. There are many brands today that are dye-free and plant-based, making them a healthier, more conscientious option.
Could you not use a dryer sheet?
If you want to do away with dryer sheets entirely, there are other things you can use in their place.
Wool dryer balls absorb moisture and eliminate static cling, making them a safe, sustainable alternative. You can also try adding a few ice cubes to your dryer before you begin the cycle. As they melt, the steam will help smooth clothes and reduce static cling.
Another great reusable option is to crumple a few sheets of tinfoil into ping-pong-sized balls. In your dryer, they will help combat static.
Of course, if you want the best in softness, static reduction, and fresh scent, non-toxic dryer sheets are the right choice for you.
Top 5 Non-Toxic Dryer Sheets: How We Chose
For those looking for a healthier, more environmentally friendly dryer sheet, we’ve come up with this list of our favorite options. We did our research to be sure we brought you only high-quality, non-toxic products. Each of the items listed below is better for the planet than a traditional chemical-infused dryer sheet. They are safer for your family as well.
Our Picks
All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author and DGHQ editors. However, Do Good HQ may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.
1. Attitude Reusable Dryer Cloths
| Product Type | Reusable Dryer Sheets |
| Ingredients | 99% Polyester, 1% Nylon |
| Features | Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, non-irritating |
These non-toxic dryer sheets by Attitude are a new standard in conscientious living. Each box comes with two sheets that will eliminate static and keep your clothing soft use after use.
Highlights
Dryer sheets that are good for up to 300 loads? Yes, please! This product is free from harmful dyes and fragrances. Since they are reusable and made from cloth, these sheets will never leave a chemical residue. You can even wash them to boost their longevity and effectiveness!
Things to Consider
These dryer sheets may not imbue your clothing with a flowery scent, but they are great for your skin and even better for the planet.
2. Method Dryer Sheets
| Product Type | One-Time-Use Compostable Paper Dryer Sheets |
| Ingredients | Compostable Paper, Plant-Based Static Control, Fragrances |
| Features | Cruelty-Free, Compostable, Recyclable Cardboard Packaging |
Method’s natural dryer sheets are a good product for those who want the convenience of single-use dryer sheets. People love the fresh scent they add to your clothes!
Highlights
These sheets can be torn along a perforated line so they won’t clog your dryer vents. This also makes them ideal for people who are being extra thrifty and may only need a half sheet per load.
Things to Consider
Although the static control is plant-based, this product contains potentially allergenic fragrances and may not be a good fit for those who wish to eliminate fragrances entirely.
3. Reusable Lavender Dryer Bags
| Product Type | Reusable Dryer Bags |
| Ingredients | 100% Dried Lavender |
| Features | Only One Ingredient Per Bag |
Trader Joe’s has brought the fresh scent of lavender to your wardrobe with these reusable dryer bags. Each box contains four bags, and each bag is good for 5-10 loads.
Highlights
A great way to give your clothes the scent of lovely lavender. Inside the bags, you will find only one ingredient: dried lavender florets. This is as transparent an ingredient list as you will find.
Things to Consider
It’s worth noting that this product does not mention static reduction. Also, lavender can be an allergen for some people, which is something to consider.
4. Honest Dryer Cloths
| Product Type | Two-Time-Use Dryer Sheets |
| Ingredients | 97% Bio-Based Formula, Plant-Based Fabric Softener |
| Features | 91% Top-Allergen Free; Fragrance, Gluten, Soy, and Dye-Free |
Honest’s non-toxic dryer cloths are a great alternative to some of the chemically-laced traditional dryer cloths out there. Each sheet can be used twice, and they are free of parabens, nickel, and lanolin.
Highlights
This product eliminated a whole host of potentially harmful chemicals from its ingredient list. It contains no animal byproducts and is certified bio-based. These sheets will leave your clothing soft and static-free.
Things to Consider
This product is unscented, which may or may not be what you’re looking for. Honest seems to have done a good job getting rid of irritants in this product.
5. Next Best Thing: Wool Dryer Balls with Essential Oils
| Product Type | Reusable Wool Dryer Balls |
| Ingredients | Pure New Zealand Wool, Organic Lavender Oil |
| Features | 100% Organic Ingredients, Certified Cruelty-Free |
Another one for the lavender lovers out there is these non-toxic dryer balls by Grove, which will last up to 1000 loads. You can add the lavender oil prior to use to determine how much or little scent you want in your clothes.
Highlights
This certified organic product takes sustainability to new heights. It even conserves energy by cutting down on drying time! It eliminates wrinkles, softens fabrics, and leaves your clothes smelling great.
Things to Consider
This product is made with hypoallergenic woo and is totally chemical-free. It is pricey up front but will pay for itself, thanks to its longevity.
How to Choose the Best Non-Toxic Dryer Sheets
There are a ton of options out there when it comes to choosing the best non-toxic dryer sheets. That’s why it’s important to consider your personal needs and desires before you make a purchase. Some things you should think about are listed below.
- Do you want a reusable product or one that is disposable, recyclable, or compostable?
- Do you prefer a product with or without fragrance?
- Even natural products may contain allergens. Is the product you’re considering safe for your personal use?
Making the switch to safe, eco-friendly household products is easy, and non-toxic dryer sheets are a great start. Your clothing might feel just a bit more comfortable as a result.
Featured image via Canva
