UK households can speed up indoor clothes drying and reduce the risk of mould this autumn by placing a bowl of salt under a clothes horse. The mineral's hygroscopic nature pulls in tiny water molecules, making it a surprisingly effective way to tackle lingering damp as colder and wetter weather takes hold.
Condensation is the top source of unwanted damp
The Property Care Association describes condensation as the number one source of unwanted damp in UK homes. If left unchecked, it can stain fabrics, peel wallpaper and grow into mould, which may lead to potential breathing issues.
For families without tumble dryers, the hack offers a low-cost alternative. Those using the trick should find the salt wet or slushy after it has absorbed liquid from the air.
Cost savings compared to tumble dryers
The method could also help households with tumble dryers save money. A 3kg bag of cooking salt costs around £2, compared to the roughly £1.50 cost of a single dryer cycle, and the salt can be left under multiple loads of laundry before needing replacement.
Experts also urge households to keep rooms well-ventilated while clothes are drying, including by leaving windows open.
Alternative moisture absorbers
E-commerce brand Style Degree said: "If you've resorted to leaving your clothes in your living room or bedroom to dry, make sure to keep the room well-ventilated with a fan or open window."
It also suggested leaving a pack of unrefined chalk or a stack of newspapers to absorb moisture in place of the salt, as these will "work to inhibit fungus and mould growth".
