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Drying Clothes Cheaply
We all know that drying clothes outside is the most natural and eco-friendly option, but sometimes it's just not possible. So what can you do to dry your clothes quickly and cheaply indoors, without causing dampness or mould in your home?
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There are many options available, depending on how much space, time and money you have. Here are some of the most popular ones :
Tumble dryer. This is the fastest and most convenient way to dry clothes indoors, but also the most expensive. There are different types of tumble dryers, such as vented, condenser and heat pump, which have different running costs and energy efficiency. Heat pump tumble dryers are the cheapest to run, but also the most expensive to buy. If you use a tumble dryer, make sure to choose the right settings for your load size and fabric type, and clean the lint filter regularly.
Heated clothes airer. This is a device that looks like a normal clothes rack, but has electric heating elements inside. It can dry your clothes faster than air drying alone, but uses less energy than a tumble dryer. You can also cover it with a bed sheet to create a warm cocoon that traps the heat and moisture inside. Some models have timers and thermostats to control the temperature and duration of the drying cycle.
Dehumidifier. This is a device that removes excess moisture from the air, making it easier for your clothes to dry naturally on an airer or a radiator. It can also prevent condensation and damp problems in your home, and improve the air quality. Some models have laundry modes that boost the fan speed and humidity level for faster drying.
Fan. This is a simple but effective way to circulate the air around your clothes and speed up the drying process. You can use a desk fan or a ceiling fan, depending on where you place your clothes. Just make sure to open a window or two to let out the moist air and avoid mould growth.
Towel. This is a handy trick to remove excess water from your clothes before hanging them up. Just wrap your clothes in a towel and squeeze or roll them tightly. The towel will absorb some of the moisture from your clothes, making them lighter and drier.
Of course, these methods are not mutually exclusive. You can combine them to suit your needs and preferences. For example, you can use a towel to pre-dry your clothes, then hang them on a heated airer with a fan nearby, and run a dehumidifier in the same room.
Whatever method you choose, remember to follow these general tips for drying clothes indoors:
Shake your clothes well after washing them to remove wrinkles and creases.
Spread your clothes evenly on the airer or rack, leaving some space between them for air circulation.
Avoid hanging your clothes directly on radiators or heaters, as this can damage the fabric and cause fire hazards.
Choose a well-ventilated room for drying your clothes, preferably with windows that you can open.
Avoid drying your clothes in bedrooms or bathrooms, as these are usually humid places that can encourage mould growth.
Check your clothes regularly for dryness and remove them as soon as they are ready.
Happy drying!
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