Quiltingboard Forums - Dryer Sheets

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I have used used dryer sheets for string quilts for years with no problems.

Not related to quilting. Fabric sheets cause jock itch for men. Not a good situation.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Monroe (Post 5132088)

I started the thread about dryer sheets. I do not recommend using them- used or not- out of consideration for others because of chemicals- not just fragrances. There's no reason to use them because I can use inexpensive interfacing to achieve the EXACT same result for applique. Dryer sheets are just spun polyester mesh or scrim interfacing that is impregnated with chemicals. Interfacing is very cheap. I'm not going crazy and saying don't wash the fabrics and quilts in detergents that might be a problem for someone. They can rewash if needed. I'm just saying don't hide chemicals INSIDE the quilt. It's NOT just about the scent and whether or not you can smell it, and it's hardly an extreme measure. If someone has a chronic headache, eye watering, breathing problem, or itchy skin or rash- who would think it was a reaction to something INSIDE the quilt? Seems like an unnecessary and avoidable risk if you are gifting a quilt meant to make someone feel good. I'm a retired Nurse Practitioner, and have heard agreement from many folks here on the Board. Common sense says go ahead and reuse the dryer sheets for a second load, dusting, maybe wall hanging, etc., not inside a quilt or quilted clothing.

given how many "chemicals" are used to make the fabric, the thread and the batting, why make a quilt at all if you are that concerned about the chemicals? THe Military tested dryer sheets to see when the chemicals went away, as they leave behind a residue on the clothing that can be seen through night vision goggles. After 3 washings the chemicals were gone....SO, take your used dryer sheets, run through a HOT water cycle in the washer and call them useable!

I use used dryer sheets to clean my lint screen for the dryer with each laundry load. For foundation strip piecing, I buy inexpensive muslin at Joannes and cut it into 12.5 or 15 inch squares. I can see where inexpensive bed sheets would be good for that purpose. Some people use newspapers, but I don't like that method because you must remove the newspapers when the squares are done.

Quote:

Originally Posted by GrannyFitz4 (Post 5135326)

This sounds like a great idea. Used sheets are cheap at the thrift stores. Thanks for sharing your ideas.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Candace (Post 5132779)

They belong in the garbage.

I have a stack in my sewing room and when I get some gunk on the iron, I run the hot iron over the used dryer sheet(s). It generally cleans all the gunk and makes the iron shiny again. Then they go in the garbage.

I have never seen the need for using dryer sheets at all, not even to dry clothes. Started out from the days when I was too poor to afford much of anything much less dryer sheets! Now I don't see the need for them at all - just adding chemicals to my clothes and more garbage for the landfill.

Try using gift wrap for a foundation. When I needed 15" squares this worked great. Paper tears off easily. Next year after Christmas buy a cheap roll or two and keep for quilting!

Quote:

Originally Posted by sewmary (Post 5135418)

Try using gift wrap for a foundation. When I needed 15" squares this worked great. Paper tears off easily. Next year after Christmas buy a cheap roll or two and keep for quilting!

Why buy it?
Why not recycle the used paper?

I say use what you have and what you like and what you can afford. If you want them extra clean I bet a wash in original dawn dish soap would remove most of the residue.

I have read on here that they are flammable. That would keep me from using them!