Liquids vs. sheets: Which fabric softener wins?

We set out to settle the score: Are liquid fabric softeners better than dryer sheets? And what about those weird-looking dryer balls? In researching our new report on fabric softeners, we looked for reviewers that compare them head-to-head on their ability to soften clothing and control static. We also checked out eco-friendly options (which skip petroleum and animal-derived ingredients in favor of plant oils) to see if they work as well.

In the end, the liquids do trump dryer sheets overall, but they can be a pain to use. If your washer doesn't have a timed compartment for fabric softener, you need to get the timing right and add liquid softeners at just the right moment in the cycle. In tests, however, most liquid fabric softeners really do work better. 

As for dryer sheets, they're certainly more convenient -- you just toss one in the dryer with your wet clothing -- but for the most part, they don't soften as effectively, and static can still be a problem. 

Dryer balls -- plastic, spiky spheres, designed to be thrown in with drying clothes --  claim to zap static, but we found evidence to the contrary. Most testers say dryer balls can do a decent job softening clothes, especially towels, but they tend to get tangled up in sleeves and pant legs, and they aren't very good at keeping static at bay.

Several liquid and sheet fabric softeners are also available in dye-/fragrance-free and all-natural versions (containing chemical-free and biodegradable ingredients) for those who want to avoid chemicals.

Want to learn more? Check out our brand new report on fabric softeners.