How to De-Static Sweatpants

By: Kimberly Johnson

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Few clothing items are as comfortable or versatile as sweatpants. Available in a wide range of styles and fabrics, these wardrobe staples are favorites of both men and women. Unfortunately, static buildup sometimes develops on these clothing items, especially during the winter months when the air is dry. Static develops when naturally occurring charges build up in your clothing instead of dissipating into the air. However, sweatpants lovers do not have to suffer clingy clothing when the solution to removing it requires only a few basic household items.

Step 1

Remove the sweatpants if you are wearing them. Open the door of a dryer and put the sweatpants in the center of the machine. Spread the pants out as much as possible, so that they are not crumpled up in a ball.

Step 2

Moisten a washcloth with water and wring it out to remove as much water as possible. When properly moistened, the cloth feels damp but does not drip water.

Step 3

Add a single dryer sheet and the damp washcloth to the dryer on top of the sweatpants.

Step 4

Set the dryer to the low heat setting and close the door securely. Set the dryer’s timer for 10 minutes and push the start button.

Step 5

Wait until the dryer buzzer sounds, which indicates the drying cycle has ended. If your dryer does not have a buzzer, use a clock to determine when to check the sweatpants.

Step 6

Open the dryer door and remove the washcloth and the dryer sheet. Discard the dryer sheet and set the washcloth in a location with good air ventilation to allow any remaining moisture to evaporate.

Step 7

Don the sweatpants and look at the legs to determine if any static remains in them. If static remains, dampen your hands with water and shake off the excess. Rub your hands lightly down the front and back of the garment legs to eliminate any residual static.