Adding new, clean tennis balls to a laundry load, particularly with bulky items like comforters or down jackets, can improve agitation and airflow within the washing machine. This action helps prevent these items from clumping or becoming unevenly saturated, promoting more thorough cleaning and faster drying times. This practice can also be beneficial for loosening pet hair and lint from fabrics.
This method provides a simple, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative to specialized laundry products or additional wash cycles. It reduces the need for harsh chemicals and saves energy by optimizing washing and drying efficiency. While the exact origins of this practice are difficult to pinpoint, it likely emerged as a practical household solution passed down through generations. The balls’ movement mimics the action of traditional washboards, providing a gentle yet effective form of agitation.
