How to Use Ice Cubes in the Dryer
Step 1: Choose the Right Clothes
This trick works best on lightweight garments, such as cotton shirts, dresses, or blouses. Heavier items like jeans or thick sweaters may not benefit as much.
Step 2: Toss in the Ice Cubes
Place 2–4 ice cubes directly into the dryer along with your wrinkled clothes. Avoid overloading the dryer so that the steam can circulate properly.
Step 3: Run the Dryer
Set your dryer to high heat for about 10–15 minutes. As the ice melts, it creates steam that removes wrinkles from the fabric.
Step 4: Remove Clothes Promptly
Once the cycle is complete, remove the clothes immediately to prevent new wrinkles from forming as they sit in the drum. Give them a quick shake, and they’re ready to wear!
Tips for Best Results
- Dryer Setting: Use a high-heat setting, as this is essential for turning the melting ice into steam.
- Avoid Overloading: Steam needs space to circulate. Overloading the dryer can make the method less effective.
- Combine with Dryer Sheets: For added freshness and softness, toss in a dryer sheet alongside the ice cubes.
Why Does This Method Work?
The science behind this hack is straightforward: as the heat of the dryer melts the ice cubes, steam is created. This steam acts like a mini steamer inside the drum, relaxing the fibers in the fabric and smoothing out wrinkles. It’s essentially a DIY steam cleaning session for your clothes, but without any fancy equipment!
Does This Work with Washing Machines?
While the ice cube hack is most effective in the dryer, some people have used ice cubes in their washing machines to chill water for delicate items or prevent shrinkage during a wash cycle. However, the primary benefit remains in the drying phase, where steam plays a crucial role in wrinkle reduction.
