With energy costs remaining stubbornly high as we approach 2026, households across the UK are seeking innovative ways to cut their bills. For journalist Samuel Jones, the winter chore of drying laundry indoors became a particular point of financial dread, torn between expensive tumble dryers and clothes-draped radiators.
The Search for a Cheaper Drying Solution
Determined to find a more economical method, Jones had previously settled on using a dehumidifier. However, his attention was caught by the Spring and Spruce Speedi Dry Tower XL, a heated airer advertised to run from just 9p per hour. Priced at £129.99 from HighStreetTV, he decided to put it to the test over the winter of 2025.
The unit itself is substantial, offering 36 heated bars across three tiers, providing over 20 metres of drying space. This allowed him to dry roughly two loads of laundry at once. An adjustable display lets users set a temperature up to 70°C, and a timer function can be set for one to nine hours before automatic shut-off.
Performance and Efficiency Wins
Initially testing the airer without its included cover, Jones found drying times were slow. Adding the cover, however, "sped up the drying time quite considerably." While the process still takes several hours, the results were effective and the energy cost was minimal. The retailer claims it is "eight times cheaper than the average tumble dryer."
The efficiency was so convincing that Jones took a decisive step: he got rid of his bulky tumble dryer, freeing up kitchen space. He also noted advantages beyond cost, including less worry about clothes shrinking or getting damaged, and fewer creases thanks to the hanging design.
Practical Design and Minor Drawbacks
Storage was a initial concern, but the airer's design proved handy. The sections and main frame fold down into a compact size, making it easy to slip under a bed or sofa during warmer months. It's also simple to move between rooms.
However, Jones highlighted a couple of frustrations. The power cable is notably short, limiting where it can be plugged in. He also felt the construction could be more solid for the price, though it reliably held the weight of wet laundry. A reviewer on Yimbly praised its sturdiness and the ability to hang clothes on the top bar.
When paired with his SmartAir Dehumidifier (£179.99 on Yimbly), which has a laundry mode, drying times reduced further, though this increases electricity use slightly.
What Are the Alternatives?
The market for indoor drying solutions is varied:
- A basic, non-heated 3-tier airer can cost as little as £12.95.
- Dunelm sells a three-tier heated airer for £95, rated 4.4 stars by customers.
- Dehumidifiers, like the one Jones uses, remain a popular and effective standalone option for drying clothes cheaply.
The Speedi Dry Tower XL is also available at Tesco for £129.99 and on Yimbly for £149.99. For Samuel Jones, the switch has been a clear win, slashing the cost and hassle of a perennial winter problem.
