Can you dry clothes outside in winter
Short answer: Yes, clothes can dry outdoors in winter, especially on dry and breezy days. It takes longer than in summer, and in frost the water freezes first, but the laundry still dries over time because the ice slowly evaporates.
How clothes dry in the cold
Clothes dry when the water in the fabric evaporates into the air. In winter the air is cold, but it can still be dry, and wind helps carry the moisture away. In frost the water in the clothing freezes to ice and the fabric turns stiff. The ice can, however, turn straight into vapour without melting first. It takes time, but on a cold, sunny and breezy day a load of washing can be almost dry in an afternoon.
The weather makes the difference
Temperature alone does not decide how quickly clothes dry. Humidity and wind matter at least as much. A damp, still day with fog or drizzle is almost impossible for drying, even when it is not freezing. A clear, dry frosty day with a light breeze, on the other hand, is quite good. Check the forecast for humidity and rain before you hang anything out, and bring the washing in if snow or rain is on the way.
Treat frozen clothes gently
Frozen fabric is stiff, and the fibres can be more brittle while they are full of ice. Avoid bending or folding clothing hard while it is frozen. Let it thaw indoors if it has to come in before it is dry, and then hang it up again. Thin items such as a bamboo tank top for men dry quickly, but they still need gentle handling when they are stiff with frost.
Spinning and hanging
The less water left in the clothes when they come out of the machine, the faster they dry. Choose a spin speed that suits the fabric. Bamboo viscose normally copes well with a moderate spin. Shake each garment out before hanging it so it does not dry creased, and give every item space so air can reach it from all sides. Bamboo T-shirts for men dry neatly on a hanger, which helps the shoulders keep their shape.
Benefits of drying outdoors
Many people like the fresh smell of washing that has hung outside, and it uses no electricity. Cold air is also gentle on fibres compared with the high heat of a tumble dryer, which can make viscose shrink. Light clothing and bedding get a thorough airing at the same time. Bear in mind, though, that sunlight can fade dark colours over time, even in winter, so it is worth hanging dark clothing inside out.
When it has to finish indoors
In winter you often end up bringing the washing in before it is fully dry. That is perfectly fine. Hang it on a drying rack in a well ventilated room and air the room a few times, so the moisture does not stay in your home. Avoid laying clothes directly on a radiator, as that can leave stiff patches and marks. The same goes for larger textiles such as throws and cushions from home and homewear in bamboo, which should be completely dry before use.
Frequently asked questions
Does frozen washing ever get dry
Yes. The ice slowly evaporates straight into the air, so the clothes dry, especially in dry and breezy weather.
Does frost damage clothing
Usually not, but frozen fabric is stiff, so it should not be folded or bent hard until it has thawed.
What winter weather is best for drying
Dry, clear days with a light breeze. Damp and still days are the worst, even without frost.
