Damp laundry piling up indoors is a familiar winter woe for many British households, especially for those without a tumble dryer. Even for those who own one, the soaring cost of energy makes its frequent use an expensive luxury.
The 'Burrito' Method: A Game-Changer for Drying Clothes
Thankfully, a simple and effective solution has gone viral on social media, courtesy of a self-proclaimed home expert. On her TikTok channel, Neat Caroline, she demonstrated a clever technique she calls the 'burrito' method.
This straightforward process involves laying a dry towel flat and placing a damp garment, like a shirt, at one end. The key is to then tightly roll the towel and the clothing item together from the bottom up, creating a snug bundle that resembles a burrito.
To force out the excess moisture, Caroline applies firm pressure to the rolled-up towel, even using her knees for extra leverage. Once unrolled, the item is ready to be placed on a drying rack. According to the expert, this method means the clothing 'will dry in one to two hours instead of overnight'.
Supercharged Drying and Professional Laundry Tips
For those in an even greater rush, Caroline suggests a powerful combination. After employing the burrito wrap, use a hairdryer on the garment. She claims this can get your clothing completely dry in an astonishing 'one minute'.
Another laundry professional, Deyan Dimitrov, the founder of Laundryheap, has also shared his advice for drying clothes indoors effectively. His first tip is to position your clothes horse strategically, keeping it away from cold exterior walls.
He recommends placing your drying rack in the warmest part of the house, such as a sunlit room during the day or a room with the heating on. However, he crucially emphasises the importance of good ventilation to prevent mould growth, suggesting a spot near a slightly draughty door or window.
Furthermore, to ensure your laundry dries 'quickly and effectively', always leave sufficient space between each item on the rack. This allows air to circulate freely around the garments, significantly speeding up the evaporation process.
Weighing Up Your Drying Options
While tumble dryers offer a fast solution, they are not suitable for all fabrics and remain a costly appliance to run. These expert-backed methods provide practical and affordable alternatives for anyone looking to tackle their laundry pile efficiently, save money on their energy bills, and avoid the dreaded damp smell that can linger for days.
