Tumble dryer or washing line
Short answer: A washing line is the gentle option for viscose from bamboo, while a tumble dryer is quick but can wear the fibres and make clothes shrink. Choose the line for most things and the dryer when time is short and the programme is mild.
What heat does to viscose
Viscose from bamboo is a cellulose fibre that is weaker when wet and can contract under high heat and heavy movement. In a tumble dryer the clothes get both heat and mechanical stress, and it is that combination which can wear the fibres and make a garment lose its shape. On the line, drying is slower and without wear. That is why the line is the safe route if you want clothes to last.
Advantages of the washing line
The line is free, kind to the fabric and gives a fresh smell in good weather. Hang clothes in the shade or indoors if the sun is strong, because direct sun can fade colours and dry out fibres. Hang trousers and heavier items by the waistband, or lay them flat, to stop them stretching. See bamboo pajamas for men, which dry well over a hanger or a rail. Garments that dry flat keep their fit best.
When the dryer makes sense
The tumble dryer is practical in rainy weather, if you lack space or if the clothes are needed quickly. If you use it, choose a gentle programme on low heat and stop before the clothes are fully dry, so they can finish drying in the air. Take them out at once and shake them out so they do not crease. A couple of clean socks or dryer balls can shorten the drying time. Always check the care label, since some garments must not go in the dryer.
Drying underwear and close fitting pieces
Underwear and items with elastic lose stretch faster in a hot dryer, because the elastic turns brittle. Let them dry on a line or a drying rack instead. See bamboo underwear for men. It only takes a few hours, because thin jersey dries quickly. Keep clothes away from the radiator, where heat can make the elastic stiff.
Dressing gowns and thicker garments
Thick, towelling or softly knitted clothes dry slowly on the line and can turn heavy and stretch in length if they hang from the shoulder. Hang them over two lines or lay them flat on a rack. See bamboo dressing gown for men. A short spell in the dryer on low heat can make a gown soft again, but use it sparingly. Leave space around the clothes so the air can circulate.
Our recommendation by situation
Choose the washing line for everyday use, for underwear and anything where fit and elastic need to last. Choose the tumble dryer if you are in a hurry and the item is robust and the label allows it, but use low heat. If you have both, air the clothes on the line and finish with five minutes in the dryer to soften them. That combination often gives the best result without needless wear.
Frequently asked questions
Does bamboo shrink in a tumble dryer
It can, especially at high heat. Use low heat and follow the care label to limit the risk.
Can I hang bamboo clothes in the sun
A short time is fine, but long hours in strong sun can fade colours. Dry in the shade if you can.
Why do clothes turn stiff on the line
It may be down to hard water or too much detergent. Shake the clothes when dry and rinse well.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
