As the UK weather turns colder, drying clothes indoors can become a real challenge. Without a tumble dryer, many resort to hanging laundry inside due to the unpredictable British weather making outdoor drying unreliable.
With dropping temperatures, people are on the hunt for ways to dry their laundry indoors without the all-too-familiar damp smell. Social media is awash with hacks promising quick drying and odour-free clothes, sheets, and towels.
However, experts caution against one popular method that could cause more harm than good. This hack involves hanging clothes on a drying rack next to a radiator and draping a fitted sheet over the top to create a ‘tent’ of warm air.
Ryan Calvert, a product expert at Hiatt Hardware, warns that this method could potentially foster damp and mould in your home, reports the Express.
He advised: “In winter the weather turns cold and wet, making drying clothes outside difficult and often causing homeowners to bring wet clothes inside. We’d advise against using a “tent” set-up, placing a sheet over a drying rack and radiator can trap moisture, and this could lead to dampness and mould growth. Warm, enclosed spaces promote condensation, especially in poorly ventilated areas, which can damage walls and furniture.”
He further added: “If you’re looking to dry clothes indoors without risking dampness and mould, there are a few measures you should take first. First, use a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air, which speeds up drying.
“If you’re looking for a temporary fix, small moisture traps can also help to reduce excess moisture, preventing mould and protecting furnishings from stale odours.
“These traps are disposable and effective for about 2-3 weeks. Damp traps are easy to find in supermarkets and are affordable as they’re often sold in multiples.”
The expert highlighted that ventilation is also key for preventing mould, so make sure that you keep a window cracked open or use an extractor fan where possible. Placing your clothes airer near a fan can also boost airflow and reduce drying time without causing excessive moisture buildup.
The key is to make sure you don’t overcrowd anything, giving your clothes space to dry evenly, which will help to reduce mould and banish that damp smell.