Drying laundry in a small flat during winter often means choosing between an energy-intensive tumble dryer and a traditional clothes horse that leaves garments damp for days. Heated clothes airers, however, are emerging as a practical middle ground, offering efficiency without the bulk or running costs of a tumble dryer.
These devices are relatively affordable, with many models priced from around £40, and are inexpensive to operate. One model that has proven particularly effective is a three-tier heated airer from Dunelm, which is among the cheapest options available. It has been used for over a year in a small flat, handling everything from towels and bed sheets to underwear, socks and tops.
The airer arrives fully assembled and measures 138cm x 72cm x 78cm. Despite its size, its wings fold downwards, allowing it to slide into an airing cupboard when not in use. The tall but narrow design makes it suitable for compact living spaces, and the long cable provides flexibility in placement.
Performance tests show that smaller items such as socks and underwear dry in about two hours, while T-shirts take around three hours. Larger items like jumpers, jeans, towels and bed sheets can take up to six hours, especially when spread across multiple rails. The device is considered safe for overnight use or while at work, meaning laundry can be left unattended.
Running costs are estimated at roughly 9p per hour, making it a far more economical option than a tumble dryer, which can cause electricity bills to spike. An added benefit is that the airer emits gentle warmth, helping to heat the surrounding area — a welcome feature for those who avoid turning on central heating. For anyone seeking a quick and cheap method to dry clothes in a small flat, this heated airer proves to be a valuable investment.
