Drying clothes in winter can feel like a never-ending battle. With colder temperatures, less sunlight, and higher humidity indoors, laundry can take ages to dry, and sometimes end up smelling less than fresh. The good news? With a few smart techniques, you can dry your clothes faster, more efficiently, and avoid damp-related issues during the winter months. Here are some practical winter laundry tips to help you master how to dry clothes in winter, even when the weather isn’t on your side.
Don’t Overfill Your Washing Machine
One of the most common laundry mistakes in winter is overloading the washing machine. When the drum is too full, clothes don’t have enough room to move freely, meaning excess water gets trapped in the fabric. By washing smaller loads, your clothes come out less saturated, making them quicker and easier to dry. This simple step can significantly reduce indoor drying time and help prevent musty smells - a key concern when drying clothes indoors in winter.
Give Some Items an Extra Spin
If your washing machine allows it, using an extra spin cycle is a game-changer for winter clothes drying. Heavier items like jeans, towels, and hoodies hold onto more water and can take days to dry without extra help. An additional spin removes more moisture before drying even begins, which means less time on the airer or dryer. It’s an energy-efficient way to speed up the drying process without turning up the heating.
Spread Clothes Evenly Over Your Dryer
Whether you’re using a clothes horse or a tumble dryer, spacing matters. When clothes are bunched together, airflow is restricted, leading to uneven drying and damp patches. For indoor air drying in winter, spread garments evenly and avoid overlapping where possible. Better airflow helps clothes dry faster and reduces the risk of condensation building up in your home.
Invest in a Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier is one of the best investments for drying clothes indoors during winter. As clothes dry, they release moisture into the air, increasing indoor humidity and slowing the process. Using a dehumidifier pulls excess moisture from the air, allowing clothes to dry more quickly and helping to prevent mould and condensation. It also improves overall air quality - a win-win during colder months.
Dry Your Clothes Near a Window
Positioning your clothes near a window can make a surprising difference. Even in winter, natural light and slight temperature variations near windows can help moisture evaporate more efficiently. Opening the window slightly (when weather allows) improves ventilation, which is essential when drying laundry indoors. Good airflow helps prevent damp smells and speeds up drying time.
Utilise Sunny Days
Winter sunshine might be rare, but it’s powerful when it appears. Even cold air can dry clothes effectively if the sun is shining. Take advantage of sunny winter days by drying clothes near windows or outdoors if conditions allow. Sunlight also acts as a natural deodoriser, leaving clothes smelling fresher - a bonus during the winter laundry season.
Flip Each Item Halfway Through the Drying Process
When air drying clothes in winter, one side often dries faster than the other. Flipping clothes halfway through ensures even drying and prevents damp spots from lingering.
This is especially useful for thicker fabrics like jumpers, trousers, and bedding. A quick flip can shave hours off drying time and improve results.
Dry Clothes Fully Before Putting Them Away
It can be tempting to put clothes away once they feel mostly dry, but even slight dampness can lead to unpleasant odours or mildew. Always ensure clothes are completely dry before storing them in wardrobes or drawers. Properly dried clothes last longer, smell fresher, and help you avoid re-washing - saving time, energy, and money during winter.
Drying clothes in winter doesn’t have to be stressful! With the right techniques, good airflow, and a little planning, you can keep your laundry routine efficient all season long. These winter drying tips will help you protect your clothes, your home, and your peace of mind - no matter how cold it gets outside.