The first trick begins before the sheets even enter the dryer. Instead of transferring your bedding directly from the washing machine in one wet bundle, separate every piece and give each sheet a good shake. Untangle the corners and place everything loosely into the drum. This allows the fabric to begin tumbling separately instead of entering the dryer already twisted together.

Next, avoid overloading the dryer. Sheets need enough empty space to lift, fall, and move freely as the drum rotates. If you’re drying a large bedding set in a smaller machine, consider splitting it into separate loads. You can also dry a troublesome fitted sheet separately so its elastic corners don’t trap pillowcases and other pieces. Closing buttons or zippers on duvet covers can similarly prevent smaller items from becoming trapped inside.

Another useful option is adding wool dryer balls. As they move through the load, they can help separate layers of fabric and improve airflow. A lower heat setting may also help, and if your sheets repeatedly tangle, pause the cycle halfway through, pull them apart, shake them out, and return them loosely to the drum.

The most effective solution is therefore surprisingly straightforward: shake the sheets out, give them plenty of room, and don’t allow a fitted sheet to swallow the rest of your bedding. These small changes can help your sheets dry more evenly and reduce wrinkles while potentially avoiding an unnecessary second drying cycle.

So the next time you open your dryer and discover a giant damp ball of sheets, don’t simply run the machine again. Untangle everything, reduce the load, and let each piece tumble freely. Sometimes the simplest laundry trick can save both time and frustration.