Tennis Balls in Laundry: The Surprising Trick for Fluffier Comforters

Compiled by the editorial desk with reference to expert commentary from fabric care scientists and laundry product specialists.

Adding tennis balls to a dryer load might sound like a quirky internet hack, but laundry experts say the practice has real benefits for bulky bedding. According to Frej Lewenhaupt, co-founder and chief product officer of Steamery, tennis balls work much like reusable wool dryer balls: they improve air circulation inside the dryer, helping separate items, loosen lint and hair, prevent static, and cut overall drying time.

Kimberly Romine, a P&G fabric care scientist and Dreft expert, explains that the bouncing action of tennis balls helps redistribute the filling inside comforters and duvets—whether down, synthetic, or cotton. This not only speeds up drying but also reduces damp spots and clumping, leaving bedding fluffier and more evenly dried.

Are Tennis Balls Safe for Your Washer and Dryer?

Both experts confirm that tennis balls are safe to use in washing machines and dryers, provided you follow a few guidelines. For the washer, Romine recommends using cold or warm water, as hot water can warp the rubber core. She also suggests placing the balls in a laundry bag to minimize noise and prevent scuffing the appliance interior. Always use new, clean tennis balls; old ones may have fraying rubber and carry dust and dirt.

In the dryer, the same precautions apply. Stick to low or medium heat settings to protect both the bedding and the machine. Romine notes that the bouncy nature of tennis balls is especially effective for boosting airflow and keeping filling evenly distributed as items dry. She adds that wool dryer balls won't have the same effect because they aren't bouncy and won't impact fluffiness.

Expert Tips for Using Tennis Balls in Laundry

For best results, laundry pros offer these practical tips:

• Always use brand new tennis balls.
• Place them in a zippered laundry bag or a white cotton sock to reduce noise and protect bedding.
• Use tennis balls for bulky items like comforters and duvets, not delicates like underwear.
• Select a cold or warm water cycle when using tennis balls in the washing machine.
• Stick with low or medium heat settings when using tennis balls in the dryer.

How to Dry a Comforter with Tennis Balls

To get the most out of this technique, follow these steps:

1. Inspect the tennis balls. Use new ones without peeling rubber, pilled spots, or visible dirt.
2. Place the washed comforter or duvet in the dryer, fluffing it out and untangling any knots.
3. Add four tennis balls to the dryer load. For extra protection, put them in a zippered laundry bag or a white cotton sock.
4. Select a low to medium heat setting.
5. Check the bedding once the cycle finishes to see if it's fully dry.
6. If damp spots or clumping remain, fluff the bedding, reposition the tennis balls, and dry again on low to medium heat until fully dry.

This simple addition to your laundry routine can make a noticeable difference in how your comforters and duvets come out of the dryer—fluffier, drier, and ready to use.