Consumer group Which? has warned households to stop drying clothes on radiators, saying the widespread winter habit can push up energy bills and increase the risk of mould.
In an Instagram video, Which? said people "need to stop drying clothes on radiators". Expert Harry Kind explained that radiators circulate warm air around the room, and if the heating is set to 20°C, the boiler stops once that temperature is reached. However, cold and wet clothes act as a barrier to the heat being given off, meaning rooms could be heated for much longer than necessary. While clothes may eventually dry, Which? warns that homes will feel chillier even as energy bills climb at the end of the month.
Mould risk from excess moisture
Another concern is the risk of mould taking hold. Drying clothes on radiators dramatically increases the likelihood of damp and mould by releasing litres of moisture into the air, even if done only a handful of times. When this excess humidity comes into contact with cold surfaces such as windows and exterior walls, it condenses into water droplets, creating conditions for mould to flourish. Repeating the habit regularly allows the damage to accumulate over time.
Surface mould on windows is generally not hard to remove if caught early, but leaving the problem to grow can mean the difference between sorting it yourself and needing to call in professionals.
Alternatives and prevention tips
Which? recommends hanging clothes on an airer near the radiator. While it may take a little longer, they note that it "helps the air to circulate around the room". A heated clothes airer offers a faster drying option, with some models consuming very little electricity and costing just pennies per hour to run, though adequate ventilation remains essential to prevent mould.
Opening a window for five to ten minutes several times a day can replace damp indoor air with drier outdoor air, or trickle vents can be left open continuously for steady airflow. Keeping the door shut in the drying room prevents humid air from drifting into cooler areas where it could condense. If opening windows is not practical due to cold or noise, running a dehumidifier alongside a heated airer will draw moisture out of the air before it settles on walls.
