How does a dryer sheet neutralize static electricity?

Question

How does a dryer sheet neutralize static electricity?

Answer 1

When clothes tumble inside a dryer, friction causes an exchange of electrons on the surface of the materials. Items acquiring excess electrons become negatively charged while those losing electrons become positively charged. The items attract and cling together. The electric charge, which by some estimates can be as much as 12,000 volts, is commonly referred to as static cling. Dryer sheets are coated with positively charged substances that rub off on the clothes in the dryer in the presence of heat. With the clothes positively charged, there is no static cling.

Answer 2

Chemicals on the sheet (e.g. quaternary ammonium compounds) conduct electricity (although rather poorly), "bleeding" off some of the static charge. It's also useful for wiping plastic or CRT screens, for the same reason. However, I find these compounds very irritating and put up with the static to avoid allergic reaction.

Answer 3

when laundering add a little, no more than recommended, fabric conditioner to the rinse. If drying in a dryer remove when almost dry, hang and let them air dry completely. Do not let them over dry nor leave them in the dryer. Friction and heat will create static electricity in synthetic fibres. Have you noticed that natural fibre, wool and cotton, never "cling"? A trick to stop clothes clinging to your body is moisturiser. True. If you smooth on moisturiser over your stockinged legs you skirt will not cling.