Columnists > Kelly Ann Butterbaugh > ArticlesAugust 20, 2007

By Kelly Ann Butterbaugh

Dryer sheets are relatively cheap items (think bargain stores and generic boxes) which can be used in a variety of ways. Stock up when you find a great bargain on these scented, or unscented, boxes of versatile sheets.

Cleaning

The main purpose for which dryer sheets were invented was to eliminate static cling. Yet, this problem is not exclusive to laundry. Static cling is the reason why the television screen attracts that circular dust pattern before anything else in the room. It's also a great tool for cleaning, as static cling is what makes items like the Swiffer systems work so well.

Use dryer sheets to wipe the dust from the television screen, and it will build up slower the next time. The dryer sheets leave behind an anti-static quality which stops the attraction of the dust.

Use dryer sheets to clean window screens. They attract those small particles that cling to the screen even with a good spray of water. Wash them the traditional way, and then wipe them over with the dryer sheets to grab excess dust.

Use dryer sheets to pick up some pet hair from microfiber fabrics. If it's Paws' favorite chair this might not work, but it will work for lighter jobs.

Repellent

While some people don't like the smell of dryer sheets, thus the unscented varieties, animals really don't like them. Pick up a box of the most powerful smelling sheets you can find and use them to repel unwanted pests from your garden or home. The common practice of using moth balls can be replaced with using dryer sheets which are healthier and safer than the carcinogenic and toxic moth balls (and they smell much better!)

Groundhogs are a constant problem to gardeners, and they're difficult to repel. However, by hanging dryer sheets around a fence or shed the groundhog will resist his urge dig underneath due to the smell. It also works with mole invasions in the garden.

Stuff small basement cracks with dryer sheets to prevent the invasion of mice. The smell of the dryer sheets can also overpower the smell of food, so hang a few outside your pantry cabinets or birdseed storage. Don't put them with the food as the smell can penetrate consumables.

Air Fresheners

The smell of dryer sheets can be used to replace many items that refresh the smell of the home. Place them in clothing that will be packed away for some time; this will avoid the stale smell. Put them in cubby holes or storage areas that are prone to the musty smell of closed areas. Provided you can tolerate the smell of the dryer sheet, this is a better choice than the natural smell of closed areas.

Read More Ideas

• Alternative Uses for Dryer Sheets

About The Author: Kelly Ann Butterbaugh is a freelance writer who regularly contributes to a variety of magazines and has written a history book for middle readers. Visit her website for writing help, lesson plans, history fun, or work for hire at http://www.kellybutterbaugh.com

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