I add 1 item to my tumble dryer for crease-free clothing and quicker drying-just 33p

After having trouble drying clothing in the colder months of the year, I turned to my tumble dryer. However, they're incredibly energy-intensive and significantly contribute to energy bills. While I didn't want to cut it out completely because it makes my life much easier and my clothes smell fresh, I started looking for ways to speed up drying time in the appliance.

I came across tumble dryer balls, something I'd always seen in the shop but never thought to research or purchase. However, I've been using them for two months now, have got many family members to also purchase them, and I'll never stop using them again.

Tumble dryer balls are small balls often made out of wool that are placed in the appliance. They help to reduce drying time, soften clothes, reduce static and prevent clumping.

Using them is really easy and involves simply placing one to three, depending on the load, into the dryer. Then, add your wet laundry like normal and set it off on its normal cycle.

The balls will bounce around, separating fabric, improving airflow and helping clothes dry faster.

I got a pack of three from The Range for just £1, and I'll tend to use all three if I'm drying bedding or towels.

I've been using them for around two months, and I'll never go back to drying clothes without them.

Although I don't use the tumble dryer often, I've found a huge difference when using the drying balls.

My clothes aren't creased, they dry much faster, and when drying bedding, it stays separated rather than clumped together.

I also sometimes add a dryer sheet into the tumble dryer, which also cuts down drying time and softens clothes.

When paired with the dryer balls, I find the duo work incredibly well, especially on towels and bedding.

They add a lovely fragrance, too, but they are single-use compared to dryer balls, which can be used again and again.

Other ways to speed up the drying of clothes in the tumble dryer include not overloading it and making sure you do an extra spin cycle in the washing machine prior.