As the chilly, damp British winter sets in, drying laundry indoors becomes a necessary but frustrating chore for millions. But a simple, genius hack promises to slash drying times and banish that lingering damp smell for good, without the need for an expensive tumble dryer.
Property expert Michael Reading from Housetastic has unveiled a remarkably straightforward towel technique that leverages basic science to wick moisture away from your washing at an astonishing rate.
The Simple Towel Trick That Changes Everything
The method could not be easier. Once your washing machine's cycle finishes, simply lay a large, dry bath towel on a flat surface. Place your sopping wet laundry on top of it.
Next, roll the towel and the laundry item together tightly, creating a Swiss roll-like bundle. The key is to apply pressure as you roll, effectively squeezing the excess water out of your clothes and directly into the thirsty, absorbent towel.
After a few minutes of the towel doing its job, unroll it. You'll be amazed to find your clothes are merely damp rather than dripping wet, cutting their subsequent drying time on a clothes airer by more than half.
Why This Hack is a Winter Game-Changer
This isn't just about convenience. Drying clothes indoors on radiators or crowded airers can have serious consequences for your health, your home, and your wallet.
- Fights Mould & Damp: Excess moisture from drying clothes is a primary cause of dampness and mould growth, which can aggravate respiratory problems like asthma.
- Slashes Energy Costs: Using a tumble dryer is notoriously expensive. This hack reduces reliance on it, putting money back in your pocket during a cost-of-living crisis.
- Protects Your Property: Persistent damp can cause damage to walls, ceilings, and soft furnishings, leading to costly repairs.
Maximising Your Drying Efficiency
For the best results, combine the towel trick with these expert-approved tips:
- Spin it Again: Run your washing through an additional spin cycle to remove as much water as possible beforehand.
- Create a Cross-Breeze: Position your airer near a slightly open window and a door to create a draught that carries moisture away.
- Embrace the Heater (Wisely): If using a radiator, place the airer nearby but not directly on top of it, as this can make the room too humid.
- Invest in a Dehumidifier: This is the ultimate solution for indoor drying, efficiently extracting water from the air and making the room feel warmer.
This winter, you don't have to resign yourself to living in a steam-filled laundry room. With one dry towel and a few minutes of effort, you can achieve drier clothes, a healthier home, and lower energy bills.
