Drying clothes on radiators during winter is not only expensive but can also damage your home and health, according to experts. Instead, a drying rack placed in a well-ventilated room is recommended for efficient drying.
Why Radiator Drying Is a Problem
According to Which?, using radiators to dry clothes is costly and wasteful in terms of energy. An energy expert explained in a TikTok video: "You need to stop drying your clothes on radiators." The expert noted that radiators circulate warm air around the room, but cold and wet clothes act as a barrier to the heat, meaning you could be heating your room for a lot longer than needed. This results in a colder home and bigger energy bills.
Experts at Posh.co.uk, who specialise in radiators, also highlighted six reasons why drying clothes on the radiator can cause more harm than good.
Costly Consequences and Health Risks
Draping clothes over radiators can make the garments heat up, but the room does not, causing the heating system to work harder and potentially increasing energy bills. Additionally, moisture released into the air can lead to dampness, staining, peeling paint, and structural damage over time.
There can also be serious health problems, as dampness and poor indoor air quality can lead to respiratory issues and allergic reactions, which can be particularly hazardous for children. Clothes left too close to hot radiators may ignite, posing a fire risk, and moisture can seep into the metal, promoting corrosion and rust that weakens the radiator. Your favourite garments may also develop stains, weaken, or discolour from direct heat.
Expert Advice and Better Alternatives
Andy Ellis, from Posh.co.uk, said: "It might seem like an easy solution but you should really try to avoid drying your clothes on radiators if you can. It can prove costly in more ways than one." He added that the boiler works harder when the radiator is covered, driving up energy costs, and that indoor air quality can cause mould to grow, leading to health risks such as flu-like symptoms.
Instead, try placing a drying rack in a well-ventilated room, ideally near a radiator or in a space with good airflow. Avoid overcrowding the rack to ensure clothes dry efficiently.
