Lora Knows Home

I’ll be honest… I didn’t expect to be excited about dryer balls. But here we are. 😄

I started using the Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls as a simple swap for dryer sheets, and they’ve officially earned a permanent spot in my laundry room.

First off, they’re 100% wool, reusable, and you just toss them in with your laundry — no measuring, no liquids, no chemicals. They bounce around in the dryer and help separate the clothes so air circulates better, which can help reduce drying time, wrinkles, and static.

What I noticed right away:
✔ Towels come out fluffier
✔ Heavy loads like bedding dry more evenly
✔ No overpowering “fake laundry smell”
✔ I’m no longer buy fabric softener or dryer sheets

Another bonus? A good set of wool dryer balls can last hundreds or loads, which means a three (2 sets per purchase) will likely stick around for for over a year.

If you like a little scent, you can add a couple drops of essential oil to the balls before tossing them in the dryer. I do this sometimes with lavender or citrus and it gives the laundry a really subtle fresh smell.

Bottom line:
This is one of those small home upgrades that quietly makes life easier — saves money, reduces waste, and works better than I expected. I’ve even given these to a friend and also a few clients in a new home gift basket.

Lora’s Amazon Find Score: 5/5

Daily Happenings, Real Estate

What’s Happening Under Your Home Matters

March 4, 2026March 3, 2026 Lora Knows...

Most homeowners don’t think much about their foundation — until something feels off. But the truth is, your home’s foundation supports everything above it. When issues start underneath, they can affect floors, walls, plumbing, and even resale value.

The good news? Many foundation problems show warning signs early if you know what to look for.

Foundation Cracks
Small hairline cracks can happen naturally as a home settles. However, cracks that are long, horizontal, or wider than about ⅛ inch may signal something more serious. If you notice these, it’s a good idea to have a foundation professional take a closer look.

Uneven Floors
If floors start dipping, separating, or feeling uneven, the foundation underneath could be shifting. In more advanced situations, you might even see porches or decks pulling slightly away from the home.

Sticking Doors and Windows
When a foundation moves, the structure above it can shift as well. One of the most common signs is doors or windows that suddenly stick, won’t close properly, or cracks forming in drywall or ceilings.

Moisture or Leaks
Foundation movement can also affect plumbing or allow water to seep through foundation walls. Signs to watch for include mold or mildew, reduced water pressure, or unexplained increases in your water bill.

Don’t Wait to Address Problems
Foundation repairs are not a DIY project. The sooner issues are evaluated, the easier they are to fix. Minor repairs may cost a few thousand dollars, while major structural repairs can be significantly more — which is why catching problems early matters.

A Little Prevention Goes a Long Way
Good drainage is one of the best ways to protect your foundation. Keep gutters clean, direct water away from the home, and stay on top of regular inspections. Simple maintenance can prevent much bigger issues later.

A home that’s cared for from the ground up stays stronger, safer, and holds its value longer.

If you ever have questions about maintaining or improving your home, I’m always happy to help.
That’s just part of what I do.