What is Static Cling?
Static cling is a phenomenon caused by static electricity. When dry materials rub against each other they can exchange electrons, creating an electrical charge. This charge can build up in the form of static electricity and cause static cling which is when two objects, typically clothing, stick or hold together.
When electrons are exchanged, one object will gain electrons, becoming negatively charged, while the other will lose electrons, becoming positively charged. Oppositely charged objects will then become attracted to each other. That is why clothes sometimes stick to each other when they are taken out of a clothes dryer — the electrons in the clothes have opposite charges and are attracted to eachother.
Static cling is not only seen with clothing. Many different types of signs work on the basis of static cling. For example, many car decals, signs, or bumper stickers, are static stickers. Static cling signs are useful because they are easily removed without damaging the surface. They may not be ideal for long term, especially on surfaces like the outside of a car that is exposed to environmental elements.
Static cling can be prevented in several ways. Increasing the moisture of either the environment or the items that are clinging, can help alleviate static cling. One way to increase the humidity in the environment is with a humidifier or by misting the air with water.
Hair that clings to combs or brushes may be a result of overly dry hair. Shampooing and conditioning too frequently can strip the hair of needed oils, allowing it to dry out and cling to things. An ionic hair dryer, which dries the hair while reduces the static charge is also helpful.
The best way to stop static cling of clothing is to wash with a fabric softener or use a dryer sheet in the dry cycle. For those that are sensitive to these harsher chemicals, adding a half a cup of vinegar or borax to the wash can help prevent static cling. Also, avoiding synthetic materials, which create cling more easily than natural materials, is another plan of attack.
To reduce the static cling of clothes presently being worn, use a moisturizer or lotion, both on the skin and on the clothing. Taking a dryer sheet and rubbing it on the clothing can help stop the attraction. Another way to remove static cling is by straightening out a metal clothes hanger and brushing it down the inside of the clothes. There are also specially-made anti-static sprays that are available for purchase as well.
Written by S. Rosier
