Streamlined Laundry Solution: Drying Damp Clothes Indoors Without Tumble Dryers or Dehumidifiers, Eliminating the Need for Ironing
In the pursuit of a greener and more cost-effective laundry routine, many are turning away from tumble dryers and embracing air-drying methods. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your air-drying experience.
Firstly, washing most loads at 20°C for 30 minutes is recommended by sustainable cleaning expert, Catherine Green. This energy-saving approach is not only kinder to the environment but also gentler on your clothes, especially knit materials.
Air-drying clothes is a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to the tumble dryer. Not only does it save energy, but it can also extend the life of your clothes. High levels of heat in a tumble dryer can cause damage to fabrics, particularly knit materials, making air-drying a preferable option.
Hanging clothes out in the sunshine is the best method of drying. Solar radiation is the most effective method of evaporating the moisture in clothes, making it a quicker and more efficient way to dry your laundry. However, in colder months, hanging clothes outside can be just as effective, if not more so, than doing so in the summer.
Washing sheets once a week or every 10 days is suggested by Catherine Green. This frequency helps maintain cleanliness while reducing the amount of laundry you need to do, saving both time and energy.
For those who live in areas with high humidity, the drying time may be longer. In such cases, it's best to check your clothes regularly and move them around to ensure even drying.
For those without access to a tumble dryer or a sunny spot for hanging clothes, Mrs Hinch fans have an easy way to dry clothes inside without a tumble dryer or dehumidifier. Hanging clothes on hangers and drying them indoors is a suggested method to avoid ironing and still achieve a fresh, dry result.
It is a common misconception that clothes can't be dried outside during the winter. While it may take a bit longer, hanging clothes out in the cold can still be an effective method of drying, especially when combined with the warmth of the sun when it does make an appearance.
When it comes to detergent, bio detergent contains enzymes that are good at breaking down tough stains like food, grass, or sweat. However, for those with sensitive skin or allergies, non-bio detergent skips enzymes and may be a more suitable option.
In a recent post on Facebook, Julie Bennett asked for tips to remove flint from a tumble dryer. Her post received over 70 responses with cleaning fans offering help. It's always good to know that there's a community of like-minded individuals ready to lend a hand.
Lastly, it's worth noting that Smol's detergent is effective on a 20°C cycle for a great clean. By choosing a detergent that works well at lower temperatures, you can further reduce your energy consumption and contribute to a more sustainable laundry routine.
In conclusion, by adopting these tips and tricks, you can not only save money but also contribute to a greener planet. Happy washing and drying!
