A checklist for drying indoors in winter
Short answer: In winter clothes dry slowly, and the air indoors quickly becomes damp. Here is a list that helps you get your washing dry without causing damp problems in your home.
Choose the right place
Place the drying rack in the room where the air is warmest and driest, without blocking heat sources. A room with good ventilation is best. A small, closed room can quickly get high humidity, and that can cause condensation on windows and, at worst, mould. Avoid the bedroom if you can, as you spend many hours there. Set the rack up so air can move around the washing.
Ventilate while the washing dries
When wet washing dries, it gives moisture off to the air. That is why you should ventilate several times a day. Open the window fully for five to ten minutes so the air changes, rather than leaving it ajar all day. Use a dehumidifier if you dry a lot of washing indoors. Keep the door to the room closed so the moisture does not spread to the rest of the home. It makes a big difference to air quality.
Give the washing space
Hang the clothes with space between the pieces, so the air can reach them all. Overfilled racks give slow drying and a risk of smell. Hang large pieces to the sides and small ones in the middle. See bamboo bodysuit and other close-fitting pieces, which dry faster if they hang freely. Turn clothes inside out so seams and thick parts dry better. When the clothes are almost dry, you can turn them over to get the last moisture out.
Avoid the radiator
It is tempting to hang clothes on the radiator, but it is not a good idea. Direct heat can wear fibres and elastic, and the clothes can shrink or become stiff. It also increases the humidity in the room and can block the heat. Use a drying rack near the heat instead, but not on top of it. See Turiform if you want to look at exercise clothes, which often need to dry quickly, but check the brand's care instructions.
Plan your washing
Wash early in the day so the clothes have the whole day to dry. Split the washing up so you do not have too much to dry at the same time. Spin at a high speed if the label allows, as that removes a lot of water. Roll wet clothes in a towel and press, so some of the moisture is drawn out. Small pieces can dry overnight, while large things like bedding need more space and time.
Check that the clothes are completely dry
Before you put the clothes in the wardrobe, check that they are completely dry. Thick seams and elastics dry last. Check by holding the fabric against your cheek: if it feels cold, it is damp. Damp clothes in the wardrobe cause a smell. If you need to dry faster, take relatively few pieces at a time. You can also look at the sale for women if you want to add to your set, so you have more changes to rotate. See the sale for women.
Frequently asked questions
Is it unhealthy to dry clothes indoors
Drying clothes increases humidity, and high humidity can cause mould. Ventilate and use a dehumidifier if you like. If you have symptoms, talk to your doctor.
How long does it take to dry clothes in winter
It depends on the fabric, the warmth of the room and the humidity. Thin fabrics dry faster than thick ones.
Can I use the radiator
It is better to avoid it, as the heat can wear the clothes and block the heat in the room. Use a drying rack instead.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
