Have you ever pulled a shirt from the dryer, only to discover that’s charged with static cling? Sure you have! While static cling doesn’t pose any threat to garments, it can make them difficult to wear. The positively charged garment will literally “stick” to other fabrics and garments, attracting debris and lint in the process. The good news is that you can eliminate static cling by performing one of the following techniques.
Dryer Sheets
Dryer sheets serve two basic purposes: to make clothes feel soft and fresh, and to eliminate static cling. The next time you get ready to do laundry, toss a dryer sheet into the clothes dryer. This is a quick, easy and inexpensive solution for static cling. Dryer sheets can be purchased for as little as a couple bucks for an entire box, making this a budget-friendly way to prevent static cling.
Safety Pin
A lesser-known technique for eliminating static cling involves hiding a metal safety pin within the garment itself. So, how exactly does this work? The metal works to discharge the electrical charge that would otherwise cause static cling. Rather than buildup up within the fibers of your garment, the electrical charge will dissipate through the safety pin. Just remember to place the safety pin in a discreet area where it’s not easily seen.
Spray it
Of course, another solution to eliminate static cling is to spray the garment with water immediately after removing it from the dryer. Water allows the electrical charge to dissipate, at which point the garment will no longer “cling” to other fabrics or items. Some people recommend using distilled water for this purpose, but I’ve found that regular old tap water works just as well.
Switch Your Shoes
No, that’s not a typo. Sometimes all it takes to prevent static cling is to change your shoes. If your shoes have a rubber bottom, they will attract and accumulate electricity as you walk. However, leather-bottom shoes do not exhibit this same behavior, making them a better choice for people who deal with static cling on a regular basis.
Install a Humidifier
Last but not least, try installing a humidifier in your bedroom. Humidifiers work by releasing moisture vapor into the air; thus, raising the humidity in the process (hence the name). When there’s ample moisture vapor in the air, static typically dissipates without building up.
