Washing machine: Few people know this foolproof trick for cleaner, softer laundry
There is a simple trick that can change how you do laundry. Put a couple of tennis balls into the wash and clothes can come out cleaner, softer and fresher, with fewer stubborn odours. It is an alternative to chemical fabric softeners and may offer environmental and financial benefits.
why simplicity works
The idea is straightforward: use a physical substitute for traditional fabric softeners. Put two tennis balls in the washing-machine drum during a normal cycle; their movement increases agitation, loosening fibres, releasing trapped moisture and helping water and detergent penetrate more effectively. This can also allow you to reduce the amount of detergent. The result is laundry that feels lighter and smells fresher.
Bulky items such as duvets, pillows and down jackets benefit in particular. The tennis balls stop the filling from clumping, so these items dry faster and retain their loft. There are also fewer creases (so less ironing) and less detergent residue, which can make fabrics softer and reduce the risk of skin irritation.
get the benefits, avoid the pitfalls
A few precautions apply. Delicate materials such as silk, cashmere and tulle should be left out. Very fine sheets and thick towels may not suit the method and are better washed separately without tennis balls.
Match the number of tennis balls to your drum size. The basic tip of two balls is fine for many loads, but three to four balls for a medium-sized drum can be more effective. Rotate balls between washes to extend their lifespan. Avoid tennis balls that are in poor condition or that might shed rubber particles or dye, as these could damage laundry and the machine.
make it personal and greener
If you want a subtle scent, put a drop of essential oil on a clean tennis ball, for example lemon for a fresh lift or lavender for a calmer scent.
Environmentally, this method can reduce reliance on chemical softeners and make detergent use more efficient, which may shorten cycles and lower water and energy use. Running a monthly maintenance cycle with vinegar or bicarbonate of soda also helps remove limescale and bacteria and can prolong the washing machine’s life.
Tossing tennis balls into the wash is a simple, low-cost way to care for clothes. It suits people looking for gentler options for skin and the environment while keeping textiles in good condition.