Whether or not you use dryer sheets may come down to the answer to a simple question: What do dryer sheets do? The most well-known function of the dryer sheet is to reduce static. The science behind these laundry add-ins is relatively simple: Heated dryer settings warm the fabric softener that coats a dryer sheet. Once heated, the fabric softener transfers to your clothes, leaving them softer, more fragrant and free of static. Believe it or not, dryer sheets can do a lot more than just go in your dryer. Here are some surprising uses for dryer sheets that have nothing to do with the dryer.
 |
| Remove pet hair — Your pet’s fur clings to your clothing and furniture, as well as……..well…….everything. There’s an easy fix: Run a dryer sheet over your clothes or upholstery to pick up the pet hair. |
 |
| Keep drawers and closets smelling fresh — Stash a new dryer wheet wherever you store garments and other fabrics. Just tuck them into the corner of the closet on a high shelf or in the corner of a dresser drawer. In your linen closet, a dryer sheet can keep your towels and sheets smelling fresh. |
 |
| Line your garbage can to rid it of smells — If your trash can is carrying a lingering scent, lining it with dryer sheets will help. The sheets will absorb odors and small leaks. |
 |
| Freshen up your gym bag — Put dryer sheets in your gym bag to absorb foul odors and keep your bag smelling fresh. Sure, you may need to remove stinky smells from your shoes, but the dryer sheet will freshen things up in the meantime. |
 |
| Deodorize your bathroom — Placing a dryer sheet inside the cardboard part of your toilet paper roll is a sneaky way to add extra freshness to your bathroom. Every spin of the toilet paper roll will release a nice smell into the air. |
 |
| Freshen your car — Car air fresheners can mask gross smells, but their powerful scents can hit you like a punch to the face. Stick a dryer sheet under your car seat for a burst of freshness and replace the sheet whenever you feel like you need a refresh of the scent. |
 |
| Help your hamper avoid the dirty-laundry stench — Place a dryer sheet in your laundry bag or hamper to help keep dirty laundry from being too odoriferous. You can even use the same dryer sheet during your next laundry load. |
