For many across the UK, the perennial challenge of drying clothes indoors during the colder, wetter months is a familiar battle against damp, musty odours, and seemingly endless drying times. The constant hum of a costly tumble dryer is often the default solution, but what if there was a more energy-efficient, gentler, and surprisingly effective alternative?
Enter the Lakeland Dry Soon Heated Airer, a product that has garnered a near-cult following for its promise of bone-dry laundry without the energy-guzzling drawbacks. But does it live up to the hype? We put it to the test.
First Impressions & Build Quality
Right out of the box, the Dry Soon feels robust and well-designed. The assembly is refreshingly straightforward, requiring no tools – a simple click-together frame that feels sturdy once assembled. The heated rails are well-insulated and the overall construction inspires confidence that it's built to last, a hallmark of many Lakeland products.
Performance: How Well Does It Actually Dry?
This is where the Dry Soon truly shines. We tested it with a full load of mixed washing—towels, jeans, cottons, and more delicate items. The key to its success is the combination of low-wattage, thermostatically controlled heat (approx. 500W) and good air circulation.
Unlike a radiator which can ‘cook’ laundry, the gentle heat evaporates moisture efficiently. In a reasonably warm room, a full load was dry to the touch overnight. For larger loads or thicker items like towels and jeans, allowing a full 24-hour cycle ensured everything was completely bone-dry.
The three-tier design is a masterstroke, offering ample space for a full 10kg wash load. The cover, while sold separately, is a highly recommended investment. It traps the warm, moist air, accelerating the drying process significantly and preventing the released moisture from condensing on your walls and windows.
The All-Important Cost Saving
This is arguably the Dry Soon's biggest selling point. Compared to a tumble dryer that can consume 2-3kW per cycle, the Dry Soon's 500W consumption is a fraction of the cost. Based on the UK energy price cap, running the Dry Soon for a full 24 hours costs mere pence, making it an incredibly economical choice for households looking to slash their energy bills.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Massive energy savings compared to a tumble dryer.
- Gentle on clothes, helping your garments last longer.
- Large capacity handles a full family-sized wash load.
- Easy to assemble and store when not in use.
- Quiet and safe in operation.
Cons:
- Requires planning as drying is not instantaneous.
- The essential cover is sold separately, adding to the initial cost.
- It takes up floor space, so you need a dedicated spot for it.
Verdict: Is the Lakeland Dry Soon Worth It?
In short, absolutely. The Lakeland Dry Soon Heated Airer is not just another household gadget; it's a genuinely intelligent solution to a common British problem. It repays its initial investment through energy savings in a remarkably short time.
It is perfect for flat-dwellers without outdoor space, environmentally conscious families, and anyone seeking to reduce their utility bills. While it requires a slight shift in routine from the instant gratification of a tumble dryer, the rewards—lower costs, kinder clothing care, and a drier home—make it an indispensable appliance for the modern UK household. A definitive best buy.
