How to prevent static cling

Static cling is a common laundry frustration. It can be extremely annoying when your shirts, skirts, or trousers stick to you - and cold, dry winter air often makes it worse. Fortunately, there are several simple and effective methods to prevent static cling and keep your clothing static-free.

Six top tips to avoid static cling

Moisturise

Winter’s lower humidity and the use of indoor heating can make your skin very dry, and dryness is one of the primary causes of static cling. By keeping your skin well moisturised, you can help reduce the buildup of static electricity. Use a good quality moisturiser daily, paying special attention to areas where clothing tends to cling, such as your legs, arms, and torso.

Use fabric softener in your wash

Fabric softeners are designed to reduce static cling in clothing. They work by coating the fabric fibres with electrically charged particles, reducing friction and preventing the buildup of static electricity. If you don’t like to use traditional fabric softeners, you can make your own by pouring about 60ml of white vinegar into your fabric softener dispenser.

Opt for natural fibres

Synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, and acrylic are notorious for static cling. Instead, choose clothing made from natural fibres such as cotton, wool, or bamboo. Natural fibres hold a little more moisture, which helps to neutralise the static charge.

Humidify your environment

You get less static cling in humid environments because the moisture in the air acts as a natural conductor, which helps to distribute excess static charge. If the air in your home is extremely dry, running a humidifier will help to raise the humidity level and reduce static cling in your clothing. Bear in mind that humidity over 60% may lead to condensation and mould, so aim to keep it between 50-60%.

Drip-dry your clothes

When possible, choose to air-dry your clothes instead of using a clothes dryer. The tumbling action of dryers can create static electricity, causing clothes to cling together. Hanging your clothes to dry allows air to circulate around them, minimizing the chances of static buildup. If you prefer to use a dryer, consider using a lower heat setting or adding a dryer sheet to reduce static cling.

Eliminate static with these simple hacks

There are several household items you can use to combat static cling. For example, lightly misting your clothing with water using a spray bottle can help neutralise static electricity. Another option is to rub a dryer sheet or a metal hanger on the fabric to remove static. Some people even claim that attaching a safety pin to the inside of a pocket or seam will remove static cling – but be sure to put it somewhere that won’t hurt if it comes undone!