Introduction
A tumbler dryer may seem like a convenient solution for drying clothes indoors, but it comes with a hefty price tag and can be costly to operate while also consuming a significant amount of space in your home. During the cold winter months, drying clothes outdoors can be quite challenging. Even when the weather is dry, the temperatures may be too low for effective drying. Consequently, when outdoor drying isn’t an option, we must turn to alternative methods for getting our laundry dry quickly. While drying clothes indoors may not be everyone’s favorite task, it can be done efficiently with the right strategies. Let’s explore some of the best techniques for drying clothes indoors swiftly and effectively.
Preparation for Drying Clothes Indoors
Before you start drying your clothes inside, it’s essential to focus on proper preparation. Begin by reducing the load in your washing machine. Although it might be tempting to cram as much as possible into the washer, doing so can result in clothes retaining more moisture, making them take longer to dry. Remember, you’re drying them indoors.
Secondly, opt for a higher spin cycle on your washing machine. This will help remove excess moisture, significantly reducing drying time. When you take your load out of the washer, you’ll be grateful for this advice.
Where and How to Dry Clothes Inside
There are several effective options for drying wet clothes indoors, but it’s important to follow certain guidelines to ensure the process is quick and doesn’t negatively impact your clothing or living space. Here are some practical methods to consider:
Heated Drying Rack
Best Picks:
1. Concise Home Portable Electric Clothes Dryer 1000W
This compact electric dryer is energy-efficient and takes up minimal space. Its unique design allows clothes to hang in a manner that reduces creasing, minimizing the need for ironing. Clothes can dry in as little as two hours, and it can also help warm the room, reducing the need for radiators.
2. 18 Bars Winged Electric Heated Clothes Airer Dryer
This foldable dryer can be extended for larger loads, accommodating about 10kg of laundry while maintaining low energy consumption.
Heated drying racks can significantly speed up the drying process and are more energy-efficient than traditional tumble dryers. To enhance drying time, consider adding a heated drying cover, which pairs perfectly with the winged dryer mentioned above.
Dehumidifier
Best Picks:
1. Dehumidifier Condensation Remover Moisture Absorber
These specially designed tubs effectively absorb dampness and humidity from the air, lasting between 4 to 6 weeks.
2. UniBond AERO 360° Moisture Absorber
This model works wonders in moisture-heavy areas, like bathrooms, effectively removing excess humidity and neutralizing unpleasant odors, suitable for rooms up to 20m². Replacement refills are necessary every few months.
3. Pro Breeze Dehumidifier 500ml Compact and Portable Mini Air Dehumidifier
This budget-friendly electric option costs around 1p per hour (as of October 2022) and can remove up to 250ml of moisture daily. It is lightweight, compact, and operates quietly.
Using a dehumidifier is an excellent way to mitigate the risk of dampness when drying clothes indoors. It enables you to dry your laundry without worrying about excess moisture, particularly in older homes where dampness and mold can be issues. While dehumidifiers can be pricey, shopping around can help you find a good deal.
Drying Rack
Your trusty drying rack is an invaluable addition to any household, especially during winter. Its simplicity and affordability make it a popular choice, but the placement of the drying rack is crucial for effective drying. Wet clothes can lead to mold growth if left damp for too long. Therefore, identify the best room in your home to set up your drying rack, preferably one with good airflow and sunlight, such as a laundry room, kitchen, or spare bedroom. Ensure there’s sufficient space around the rack to facilitate airflow, aiding in quicker drying.
Coat Hangers
Utilizing coat hangers is an excellent method for drying delicate items like shirts or blouses, especially when space is limited. Even if your drying rack has room, hangers can prevent snagging and promote faster drying, reducing ironing later. You can easily transition clothes on hangers directly from your drying area to your wardrobe, and hanging them in open doorways allows for better air circulation.
Spread Out Clothes
If space is tight, consider spreading wet laundry flat on a hard, dry surface, like a dining room table. Avoid placing wet items on fabric surfaces like couches, as this can lead to damage and odors. Keeping clothes flat can enhance drying speed and make ironing easier. Remember to turn them over as they dry to accelerate the process further.
Further Points to Consider When Drying Clothes Indoors
Here are additional tips to keep in mind while drying clothes indoors:
Don’t Air Dry Garments for Too Long
If your clothes are still damp after a full day of drying, it’s time to rinse them again. Lingering dampness can lead to musty odors, making them unpleasant to wear.
Keep Wet Clothing Out of Your Bedroom and Living Room
Drying clothes in frequently used rooms can raise humidity levels, which may lead to respiratory issues for some individuals. It’s best to place damp laundry in well-ventilated, unused rooms to avoid impacting your living space.
Avoid the Bathroom When Drying Clothes Indoors
Bathrooms tend to be the dampest rooms in a home due to steam from showers and baths. Drying clothes in this environment can compound health risks, making it wise to keep laundry out of the bathroom.
What About a Tumble Dryer?
If you own a tumble dryer, you have a straightforward solution at your fingertips. While they are not the most energy-efficient appliances and can drive up your electricity bill, tumble dryers offer unparalleled convenience for drying clothes indoors quickly. Just be cautious not to overload the dryer, as excess moisture can extend drying times significantly.
FAQs
How do you dry clothes fast inside?
To facilitate faster drying, ensure garments are spaced apart to allow for better air circulation. Position wet clothes near a fan or a heat vent to expedite the drying process.
How long do clothes take to dry indoors?
On a cold day, drying clothes indoors can take longer, but with a heated drying rack, you can achieve dry clothes in around two hours.
What is the iron and towel trick?
This technique involves placing a wet garment on an ironing board and covering it with a clean, dry towel. By heating the iron to maximum temperature and ironing over the towel, the heat is transferred, allowing the towel to absorb moisture from the clothing.
Can I dry my clothes in the microwave?
It is not advisable to dry clothing in the microwave, as this can pose a fire hazard, especially with larger items like jeans or bed sheets.
Conclusion
Drying clothes outdoors is often a straightforward task, requiring little effort. However, there are times when indoor drying becomes necessary. The key is to implement efficient methods that simplify the process and minimize inconvenience. With these tips, you can effectively dry your laundry indoors without compromising on quality or comfort.