Use dryer sheets, water mist, or metal to discharge static

Add moisture or ground the electrical charge to instantly neutralize static cling on clothes and hair. These quick fixes use items most people already have at home.

For Clothes

• In the dryer: Toss in a dryer sheet or wool dryer balls to prevent static from building up during the cycle.
• After drying: Lightly mist garments with water from a spray bottle, or run a wire hanger over the fabric surface to discharge the charge.
• While wearing: Rub a dryer sheet over the clinging area, or touch a grounded metal object like a doorknob to release static from your body.

For Hair

• Lightly mist hair with water or run damp hands over flyaways.
• Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner or hair serum to smooth the cuticle.
• Run a dryer sheet gently over the surface of your hair.
• Switch to a metal comb instead of plastic, which generates more static.

Tips

• Synthetic fabrics (polyester, nylon) generate far more static than natural fibers like cotton or wool.
• A metal hanger works because it conducts the charge away from the fabric surface.