Tumble dryer against washing line on the same garment
Short answer: The tumble dryer is faster and makes terry softer. The washing line costs no electricity and wears less, so clothes last longer and shrink less. Here is the difference, and why a combination is often the best solution.
The dryer is fast
The tumble dryer dries clothes in under an hour, whatever the weather outside. That is a big advantage if you are in a hurry or have no room to hang laundry indoors. In return it needs electricity and is harder on the fabric than a line, so use it with thought.
What happens in the drum
Heat and movement loosen fibres, and the lint in the filter is fabric that has gone missing from your clothes. It is a natural part of wear, but it means clothes get thinner over time. The more often you dry at high heat, the sooner you notice it in how long clothes last.
The dryer makes terry softer
One advantage of the dryer is that terry gets softer, because the movement lifts the loops up again. A towel from the line can feel stiff, while a tumbled one is fluffy. It is one of the few things where the dryer really improves comfort. See bamboo towels.
The line saves electricity
The line costs no electricity, wears the fabric less and shrinks clothes less. It is the gentlest way to dry, and it suits dresses and other pieces where shape matters. In return it takes from a few hours to a day and needs room that can be aired. See bamboo dresses.
Does clothing shrink in the dryer
Yes, clothes shrink more in the dryer than when line dried, especially at high heat. Fibres pull together in heat and movement, and that is a common reason a garment suddenly fits differently. To avoid it, choose a low temperature or hang the clothes to dry.
The combination
Line dry most of it and give towels a short spell in the dryer at the end. That gives you the softness without clothes drying for half an hour at high heat. It is a simple way to get the best of both, and it saves electricity and wear. See bamboo underwear for men.
Underwear and delicates
Underwear with elastic and delicates are best served by the line. Elastic loses its spring faster in heat, and fine fabrics pull together easily. By air drying you keep the fit longer and spare both clothes and wallet. It is a small habit that pays off over time.
Where to hang clothes
Hang clothes where the air is good and out of direct sun, which can fade colours. Shake them out before hanging so they do not dry in creases. If there is no room for everything at once, hang the thick pieces first, because they take longest to dry.
How to choose for yourself
Ask yourself how much time and room you have and what the clothes are for. Everyday clothes and towels can happily go in the dryer now and then. Delicate pieces and clothes you want to last get the line. There is no fixed rule, only what suits your daily life.
Frequently asked questions
Does clothing shrink in the dryer
Yes, more than when line dried, especially at high heat. Choose a low temperature, or hang the clothes to dry if it is a piece you want to keep its fit.
Where does the lint come from
From your clothes. It is fabric torn loose by heat and movement, and it is a natural part of wear, which means clothes get slightly thinner each time.
What is fastest
The dryer, but it costs both electricity and clothing life. The line is slower but spares clothes and your energy bill, so it suits best when you are not in a hurry.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
