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20 unexpected ways to use dryer sheets

Dryer sheets can do so much more than just make your clothing scented and snuggly. Here are 20 ideas to get more out of your dryer sheets.

Alina Bradford
Alina Bradford has been writing how-tos, tech articles and more for almost two decades. She currently writes for CNET's Smart Home Section, MTVNews' tech section and for Live Science's reference section. Follow her on Twitter.
Alina Bradford
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Pet fur grabber

Just a few quick swipes with a used dryer sheet can remove pet hair from your clothing.

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Cleaning electronics

After you use a dryer sheet, don't throw it away. It makes a great duster for televisions, laptops...

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Cleaning electronics

...gaming consoles and more. It grabs dust and lint while leaving behind an invisible barrier that reduces static electricity.

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Air freshener

If your room is smelling a bit musty, freshen it with a sheet. Remove one of your air conditioning grates and tape a new dryer sheet over the slats.

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Air freshener

When you replace the grate, the air moving through the vent will be pleasantly scented. Remember to change the sheet once a week to prevent dust buildup that can block air flow.

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Sharpen scissors

Have a pair of dull scissors? Don't throw them away. You can sharpen them by cutting up a dryer sheet. It sounds crazy, but it really works!

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Clean up the bathroom

Save used dryer sheets to wipe down your sink, your toilet tank and other areas that need a quick polish.

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The slight texture in the dryer sheets picks up bits of lint and dirt better than paper towels.

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Refresh shoes

Eliminate odors in shoes by placing a new dryer sheet in each shoe before bed. In the morning your shoes will smell great.

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Make cleaning pads

There's no need to buy new cleaning pads for your Swiffer duster or other refillable push duster pad. Load the cleaning pad area with two used dryer sheets. It works just as well and you're recycling.

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Dust ceiling fans

You don't need to climb on a step ladder to clean your ceiling fan with this tip. Simply secure a used dryer sheet around the end of a long-handled paint roller handle with a couple of rubber bands.

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The angle of the paint roller is perfect for cleaning the tops of the blades and the length of the handle keeps you safely on the floor.

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Clean your oven racks

If your oven racks are grimy, fill your bathtub halfway with warm water, add your oven racks and toss in half a cup of dish soap and eight dryer sheets.

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Let them soak overnight, scrub them down with the dryer sheets and rinse.

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Nix minerals in the dishwasher

Hard water can leave mineral deposits in your dishwasher. These can be difficult to remove.

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Remove hard water stains in dishwashers

Use a moistened dryer sheet to scrub away any mineral deposits. Here are more ways to clean your dishwasher.

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Freshen your dresser

Dresser drawers smelling a bit musty? You can freshen them up by adding a dryer sheet or two to each drawer.

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Freshen up a vacuum

Have a stinky vacuum? Pop a new dryer sheet into the canister or bag before you vacuum. Both your vacuum and room will smell fresh.

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Tame flyaways

On low-humidity days, static electricity can make your hair stand on end. Tame your flyaways by running a fabric softener sheet through your hair. Works like a charm.

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Tame your flyaways by running a fabric softener sheet through your hair. Works like a charm.

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Remove a deodorant stain

When you're rushing out the door and realize your deodorant left a mark on your shirt, don't go change. Grab a used dryer sheet and rub it away.

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​Pick up a dry spill

Flour or other dry, powdery substances can be wiped up easily with a used dryer sheet. The particles stick to the fibers.

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Fix a scorched pot

Who hasn't left something on the stove and ended up with a mess of scorched-on food at the bottom of a pot? An easy fix is popping a new dryer sheet in the pot, along with a couple inches of boiling water. Let it soak overnight and the burned food will wipe right off.

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Wipe away grease

Used dryer sheets are also great for wiping oily messes off of oven vents, canisters and other kitchen items.

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A quick wipe-down

After each load, take your used dryer sheet and wipe down the outside of your washer and dryer to keep them looking as clean as your laundry.

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Stash some in the car

Take your fabric softener sheets to the garage. Stash a few under the seats to keep the interior fresh.

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Remove bug guts

While you're at your car, use a moist dryer sheet to remove dead bugs from the windshield. Rinse the window with clean water when you're done.

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