How to Eliminate Static Cling

Static cling arrives when two substances with opposite charges touch. Conditions need to be right for the sparks to fly or the attraction to stick. Dryness causes electrons to travel from one material to another. With electricity, like charges repel, unlike charges attract. With static cling, the attraction occurs when one item has a negative charge while the other positive. Eliminate static cling with a few household items.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric softener sheets
• Hand lotion
• Wire hanger
• Anti-static spray
• Liquid fabric softener
• Measuring cup
• Vinegar
• Humidifier

Instructions

1. Dampen a used fabric softener sheet with water and rub it on your hosiery.

2. Work a small amount of hand lotion on your hands then rub your hands on your pantyhose. This method eliminates static cling on skirts.

3. Use a wire hanger to end static cling on garments by moving it back and forth on material. Squeeze or undo a hanger to better reach inside pant legs and rub the hanger under a shirt, dress or skirt.

4. Buy an anti-static spray like Static Guard from a supermarket or drug store to spray on clothing, hats, combs or brushes. This rids static charged hair and clinging outerwear. Read directions for proper usage on various materials.

5. Pour a cap of liquid fabric softener in the rinse cycle to get rid of electric charges on clothing.

6. Purchase dryer or fabric softener sheets to go with each load of laundry. These smell nice while removing the electric charge.

7. Measure 1/4 cup of vinegar, then add to the washer's rinse cycle.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy a small size can of Static Guard to keep in the car or purse for when you're away from the house.

• Dryer or fabric softener sheets work to eliminate static cling from your car seat. Just rub one across the back and seat areas.

• To reduce static buildup around the house, run a humidifier during the winter months. Some furnaces have these devices build in, but small portable machines work for individual rooms.