Washing machine: Few people know this hidden trick for cleaner, softer laundry
Getting cleaner, softer laundry doesn’t always mean splashing out on pricey detergents or fabric softeners. A simple, familiar object in many homes can make a noticeable difference: tennis balls. These little yellow balls change how your washing machine works through mechanical action.
what the balls do in the drum
So how do tennis balls improve a wash? It comes down to movement. As they bounce around the drum, they shake garments differently than a normal tumble, loosening fibres and stopping them from clumping together. That action helps detergent and water reach the thickest parts of fabrics, giving a more even wash.
Their movement is a form of gentle kneading. It makes clothes softer and fresher and reduces residues that might irritate the skin. Duvets regain fluff, padded jackets dry more quickly, and towels come out noticeably fluffier and softer.
how to use tennis balls in your wash
For a standard load, three to four tennis balls do the job; three are usually enough for everyday clothes. For very bulky items, add one or two more. You can put a couple of drops of essential oil onto the balls before washing to scent your laundry (lavender, lemon or eucalyptus work well). Adding a spoonful of bicarbonate of soda to the drum helps neutralise bad smells while improving cleaning.
Pick your balls carefully. New balls can sometimes bleed dye (especially on light-coloured garments), while very worn ones may shed rubber or fluff. Ideally, use second-hand but intact balls, avoiding any that flake, crumble or show cracks since these could make a mess in the machine.
take care with delicate fabrics and keep the machine in good nick
Some fabrics need more care. Silk, cashmere and lace are delicate and might not tolerate the extra tumbling caused by the balls. For those pieces, stick to a gentle cycle and use a natural fabric softener instead.
Keeping your machine clean pays off. Run an empty cycle with vinegar or bicarbonate of soda now and then to dissolve limescale and remove bacteria. Cleaning the filters and the door seals regularly also helps the machine work better.
making it part of a greener routine
Rotate and inspect your tennis balls regularly to slow down wear, and tweak the number you use depending on load size to get the best results. With well‑chosen balls, routine machine cleaning and a few simple habits, your textiles will stay soft and fresh for longer.
Tennis balls are not a miracle cure, but they are a practical addition to your laundry routine. They help restore fluff and freshness to clothes with little effort.