Laundry List: DIY Dryer Balls

Laundry List: DIY Dryer Balls

BY KATIE MILLARD

ILLUSTRATIONS BY MARISSA GIORDANO

PHOTOS BY BY PROVIDED

In 2022, waste reduction is something everyone is cognisant of. One item on the chopping block is dryer sheets. Since they are not technically necessary, making the switch to go without this landfill-bound item is an easy one. For those who are not willing to give up that wrinkle-limiting, static-dissolving, softening wash and dry, here is how to make DIY dryer balls for the same laundry without the monetary or environmental cost.

Materials Needed:

• One skein of 100% wool, which can be purchased at online or at any local craft store • Scissors • One crochet hook • One old pair of pantyhose

Instructions:

Step 1. Take the yarn and wrap it around a few fingers 10 times. Step 2. Remove the yarn from your fingers and wrap it 10 times around the middle. Step 3. Wrap the yarn tightly around the clump from every angle, repeating 5-10 wraps in the same direction before switching angles. (Note: try to mold the ball into as round a shape as possible). Step 4. When the ball is slightly larger than a tennis ball, cut the yarn. Step 5. Pull the end of the yarn through the ball with the crochet hook. Step 6. Repeat steps 1-5 to make a second wool ball. Step 7. Place the balls into the pantyhose, knotting the pantyhose between each of the balls. Step 8. Run wool balls in the pantyhose through the washer and dryer with loads of laundry until they become solid balls (Note: this will take 3-4 loads). Step 9. Remove balls from pantyhose. Now, you have homemade dryer balls!

Happy Hiking

BY OLIVIA ROHLING PHOTOS BY KALI KNUDSON

There is no better way to appreciate nature and the outdoors than with a hike. While seemingly straight forward, there are some hiking basics that everyone should know to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike. Do not hike alone. If, however, one chooses to do so, they should share their location with a trusted loved one and make sure multiple people know where they are going and when they plan to return. Whether someone is hiking solo, with a friend, or with a whole group, having their location known by a few people back home for safety’s sake is always a good idea. Hikers never know what problems they might encounter out in the wilderness, so being safe is better than being sorry. A successful hike is set up by wearing the correct shoes. Boots or sneakers work best of course, but for those who are feeling extra, there are shoes made specifically for hiking. This may be a given, but bring water. This is possibly the most important tip of them all. Dehydration can happen regardless of the weather. Hikers will want to be comfortable and not parched while navigating the wilderness.

Sunscreen and bug spray are vital. When hiking in the summer, hikers should not forget these unless they want to burn to a crisp or become a mosquito’s next meal. These items might be slightly less important if hiking in colder months, but being prepared can never hurt. Be safe, be smart, and happy hiking!