A laundry expert has warned that drying certain items on an outdoor washing line can cause irreversible damage due to UV rays, pollen, and wind. Deyan Dimitrov, CEO of Laundryheap, identified three types of garments that should never be line-dried outdoors: towels, dark-colored clothing, and textured fabrics.
Towels: Wind Can Make Them Rough and Scratchy
According to Dimitrov, while wind can speed up drying and give sheets a crisp feel, it is a harsh opponent for towels, jeans, and hoodies. He explained: "It can leave garments feeling rough, scratchy and less soft. For these items, it's best to stick to a tumble dryer." The abrasive effect of wind on the fibers reduces the softness and comfort of these absorbent materials.
Dark-Colored Clothing: UV Rays Cause Fading and Fiber Damage
Intense UV rays are particularly harmful to dark-colored items such as black, navy, and grey garments. Dimitrov noted that UV light "degrades the dyes" in fabrics, acting as a natural bleach that causes color fading. He added: "Brightly coloured clothes and printed items can also lose their vibrancy when exposed to sunlight for too long." To protect these garments, he recommends drying them indoors or in shaded areas away from direct sunlight.
Textured Fabrics: Pollen Gets Trapped in Surface Pockets
Pollen is another outdoor enemy, especially for those with hayfever. Dimitrov warned: "Pollen loves to stick to absorbent fabrics like cotton, and it can get trapped in the tiny surface pockets of textured fabrics like corduroy and terry cloth." He advises avoiding line-drying cotton shirts, corduroy garments, or towels during peak pollen periods to prevent allergic reactions and fabric contamination.
In summary, while outdoor drying is economical and helps eliminate odors, it poses risks for certain items. Dimitrov's advice underscores the importance of choosing the right drying method to maintain garment quality and longevity.
