Static cling occurs when positive charges and negative charges on surfaces attract. Fabrics generally acquire static electricity during dry weather conditions, as well as after fabrics are dried in clothes dryers. Static electricity typically causes clothing to bunch up and cling to skin, particularly legs. Because static cling is a nuisance, most people desire to eliminate it. Fortunately, effective methods of discharging static cling are available when laundering and wearing clothing. Promptly eliminate static cling from garments to make wearing them comfortable again.
Laundering Clothing To Discharge Static Cling
Place the electrically charged garment in the washing machine, and set the machine’s water temperature to the appropriate setting for that particular garment. Water temperature specifications are generally listed on a garment’s care tag.
Stop the washing machine during the rinse cycle. Pour 1/2 cup of distilled vinegar into the wash. Vinegar naturally discharges static cling.
Allow the washing machine to finish the rinse cycle. Once finished, transfer the garment to the clothes dryer.
Dampen a washcloth with water. Place the moistened washcloth in the dryer, then set the dryer on the low heat setting. Moist washcloths eliminate static buildup in dryers.
Remove the garment from the dryer after 10 minutes.
Discharge Static Cling From Garments Without Laundering
Rub moisturizing lotion over your body (particularly arms and legs) to eliminate dryness. Moisture quickly discharges static electricity.
Slide a metal garment hanger across your clothing to neutralize any remaining electrical charges on the fabric.
Examine your clothing for remaining electrical charges. If your clothing is still clinging to your body, rub a dryer sheet directly onto your clothing to discharge the remaining static electricity.
Substitute borax for distilled vinegar.
Do not machine-dry synthetic fabrics; the dry heat worsens static cling in synthetic fabrics.