As the winter chill sets in and outdoor drying becomes impossible, households across the UK are searching for effective and affordable ways to dry laundry indoors. One savvy social media user has revealed a remarkably simple trick that not only accelerates the process but also helps keep energy bills in check.
The Simple Bedsheet Trick That Traps Heat
TikTok user @bygemmalondon shared her money-saving winter tip in a recent video. She demonstrated that placing a dry bedsheet over the top of a heated dryer rack can trap the hot air inside, creating a mini drying chamber that significantly speeds up the time it takes for clothes to dry. Her caption enthusiastically noted the volume of washing she can get through using this method, claiming it "will save on the pennies this winter!"
Cost Comparison: Heated Rack vs. Tumble Dryer
The financial incentive for using a heated rack with this hack is substantial. Running a heated clothes rack typically costs between 7p and 26p per hour. In stark contrast, a single cycle on a tumble dryer can range from 75p to £1.54.
The initial purchase price also favours the heated rack. Basic models start from around £40, whereas a tumble dryer will usually set you back at least £200, with modern heat pump models—the cheapest to run—carrying an even higher upfront cost.
Expert Steps for Effective Indoor Drying
To maximise the efficiency of your heated airer this winter, follow these key steps:
Pre-spin your laundry: Always give washed items an extra spin in the machine to remove as much excess water as possible before hanging.
Spread clothes out: Ensure garments have maximum contact with the heated bars by spacing them out evenly. Avoid overcrowding.
Turn items regularly: Rotate clothes every few hours to promote even drying and prevent damp spots.
Employ the bedsheet cover: Drape a sheet or a purpose-made cover over the entire airer to contain the warmth, dramatically accelerating drying times.
Choose your location wisely: Place the rack in the smallest room you can, such as a bathroom or utility room, to concentrate the heat. A large, open space will dissipate warmth and be less effective.
Consider a dehumidifier: For even faster results, position a dehumidifier on the floor underneath the airer. It will collect evaporated moisture from the air, speeding up the process and helping to prevent condensation and damp.
Time it right: Hang smaller, quicker-drying items first. As heat rises, you can then move larger, heavier items like towels and jeans to the top racks as space becomes available.
This combination of a simple hack and strategic drying practices offers a powerful solution to the perennial winter problem of damp, lingering laundry, proving that staying on top of the washing pile doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag.
