As autumn and winter set in, drying laundry becomes a significant challenge for households across the UK. With energy costs a constant concern, the familiar hum of the power-hungry tumble dryer is a sound many are trying to avoid. Fortunately, a straightforward and more efficient method exists to get your clothes dry and fresh without escalating your electricity bill.
The Superior Alternative to Tumble Drying
When temperatures plummet, most people naturally turn to drying racks over expensive tumble dryers. However, the debate often centres on which economical alternative is most effective. Mark Walker, a laundry expert from Denver Wash and Fold, provides a clear recommendation: use a dehumidifier. He strongly advocates for this appliance during the colder months, as it serves a dual purpose.
"Banish mould and mildew for good by introducing a dehumidifier into your winter drying routine," Walker advises. "Not only will it remove moisture from your clothes faster, it'll also make your home into a healthier environment." He suggests placing the device near your drying laundry and watching the tank fill up, a visual confirmation of the moisture being extracted from your home.
Why Dehumidifiers Work So Effectively
Drying washing indoors in December can lead to a significant problem: mould. Damp garments increase the moisture levels in the air, creating the perfect breeding ground for spores to flourish. A dehumidifier tackles this issue head-on. It is highly effective at rapidly drying clothing because it actively absorbs the excess dampness throughout the entire room, preventing mould from developing in the first place.
To maximise the effectiveness of this method, Walker recommends a simple pre-drying step. Put your clothes through an additional spin cycle in the washing machine before hanging them up. This action eliminates surplus moisture, making the dehumidifier's job much easier and faster.
"If you're looking for a more economical alternative to tumble drying, then an extra spin cycle might be the answer," Mark explains. "On average, it takes less energy to spin water out of the load than it does to heat it up and dry it, so go ahead and extract some extra moisture at the end of a wash."
Essential Tips for Faster Winter Drying
The core secret to drying clothes quickly in winter is to minimise their moisture content as much as possible. Beyond using a dehumidifier, ventilation is crucial. Wherever you are drying your laundry, ensure the space has maximum air flow. Open windows throughout the day to help circulate the air.
How you hang your laundry is equally important. Avoid the temptation to bunch items together. Give your laundry plenty of space on the drying rack. This allows air to circulate around each garment, leading to quicker drying times, fresher smells, and fewer wrinkles.
Finally, one common practice should be avoided at all costs. Never dry clothes directly on your radiators. While it might seem practical, this method releases a large amount of moisture into your home's atmosphere and can leave clothes with a stale odour.
"Contrary to popular belief, not only is it a potential fire hazard, it's also a breeding ground for condensation and mould," warns Walker. Instead, he suggests investing in a radiator drying rack. "These space-saving devices are cheap, cheerful and great for speed-drying laundry on a cold day," he adds, offering a safer and more effective solution for keeping warm and getting your laundry dry.
