16 Surprising Uses for Dryer Sheets That Aren’t Laundry

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While you may think of dryer sheets when you think of laundry day—tossing one in with a load to keep your clothes soft and smelling fresh—it’s not the only time to use them. Dryer sheets are much more than they first appear. In fact, these little sheets can do a lot more than just soften your clothes. Whether it be household hacks or personal care tips, you may be surprised at the handy ways you can make use of them.

Check out a few unexpected uses for dryer sheets that you may want to keep on hand for more than just laundry.

Dust Your Electronics

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Are you tired of dust on your TV, computer or tablet screen? Gently wipe down electronics with dryer sheets. They don’t scratch and collect dust easily. They also help keep dust away from your screens so they stay cleaner for longer.

Deodorize Trash Cans

A stinky trash can is nobody’s cup of tea. An easy way to keep things smelling fresh is to toss a dryer sheet in the bottom of your bin. What’s more, the scent will help to mask odors, and your kitchen will continue to smell great even when it’s time to take out the trash.

Wipe Down Baseboards

Dust collects on baseboards like nobody’s business. Instead of grabbing a cloth and bending down to clean them, try using a dryer sheet. It picks up not just dust but leaves a residue that prevents dust from sticking in the future.

Clean Your Iron

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The buildup from starch or other fabrics can form on irons over time. You can also rub warm iron on a dryer sheet to remove any gunk, so your iron is smooth and ready for your next pressing job. You’ll end up with crisper clothes and no streaks.

Keep Bugs Away

Is it almost like you’re inviting bugs to your patio for a party everyday? Try sticking a dryer sheet in your pocket or under your picnic blanket. According to The Spruce, this trick is supposed to keep mosquitoes and other pests away, and some people swear by it. If bug spray isn’t handy, it’s worth a try.

Freshen Suitcases or Gym Bags

Over time, suitcases and gym bags can begin to pick up odd odors if you’ve been using them for a while. Put a dryer sheet inside, and it will suck up those last straggling smells, ensuring your bag is always freshest for your next journey or gym trip.

Unstick Zippers

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Got a zipper that’s stuck? Rub a dryer sheet over the zipper teeth before you begin tugging at it in frustration. Just enough lubrication from the sheet will help it to move smoothly again without having to deal with a jammed zipper.

Polish Chrome Fixtures

Dryer sheets are great for a quick way to shine up your bathroom or kitchen fixtures. Rub it gently over faucets, showerheads, or other chrome surfaces. Without harsh chemicals, it will remove water spots and leave everything looking polished and new.

Preventing Static Cling in Clothes

This one is laundry related, so it’s worth mentioning. But if you forgot to toss in a dryer sheet, simply rub one over your clothes after the fact. It works just as well after the dryer and will prevent that dreaded moment of ‘clingy’.

Tame Frizzy Hair

A bit of frizz and running late? You don’t need to worry as that too, can be helped with dryer sheets. Rub gently over your hair to calm static and frizz. When you’re out the door and can’t be bothered with flyaways, it’s a quick fix.

Freshen Up Your Shoes

Sneakers a bit funky? According to Polygiene Group, to neutralize any unpleasant odors in shoes, slip in a dryer sheet over night. Your feet will thank you, and your shoes will smell fresh by morning. This is a simple way to keep your kicks smelling like new without any fancy products.

Clean Your Windshield

A dryer sheet can be a handy tool if bugs or grime are stuck to your windshield. If the stains are stubborn, wet the sheet slightly and scrub away. It’s easy on the glass, but tough on the mess, leaving your windshield crystal clear and smooth for your view.

Deodorize Closets and Drawers

To keep your clothes smelling fresh between washes, tuck a dryer sheet into your closets or dresser drawers. It will freshen up your whole wardrobe without overpowering it, making it seem like laundry day every day.

Repel Rodents

I bet you didn’t know mice can also be deterred by dryer sheets. Put a few sheets in places where rodents like to sneak in — like garages, basements, or under the sink. It’s a non-toxic way of discouraging unwanted visitors and the scent is off putting to them.

How to Remove Pet Hair From Furniture

Anyone who has pets knows that they leave hair everywhere. Pet hair can be lifted off your couch, chair, or even your clothes very quickly with dryer sheets. You just need to quickly wipe your furniture and it will look like your furry friend was never there.

Clean Off Deodorant Marks

Got deodorant marks on your black shirt by accident? No problem! A dryer sheet rubbed over marks will lift the marks right off, saving you a wardrobe change. Yeah, the stain from the deodorant might be so annoying, but you know an easy fix now.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.