In the UK, fascination with weather is no secret, and for good reason: it rains an average of 156 days a year – and sometimes it feels like even more! It poses a challenge for winter laundry, as hanging clothes outside to dry becomes limited. Therefore, many people, especially during the colder months, resort to drying clothes indoors using airers, bannisters, and chair backs.
However, while indoor drying seems like an obvious solution, it creates a more humid environment that can trigger allergies like asthma, particularly affecting children and the elderly.
In this article, we’ve compiled some quick-drying tips for those times when Mother Nature forces us to dry laundry indoors. These clothes washing service tips aim to make the chore of laundry more manageable during the winter season.
Top Laundry Tips For Winter Special
- Consider an Extra Spin
Once your laundry cycle completes, consider giving it an additional spin or opt for a higher-speed setting to further extract water. Materials like bedding, towels, and jeans are typically sturdy enough to handle this extra spin. However, be cautious, as not all fabrics can endure the intensity of a washing machine’s added spin cycle. Always refer to the washing instructions on the label to ensure compatibility. This simple step can significantly cut down drying time with just a little extra spin.
- Shake It Up
Boost your laundry routine with a simple step: give your freshly washed clothes an extra shake. Delicate cycle-washed garments tend to retain excess water. By giving them a good shake before hanging them to dry, you’ll eliminate some of this moisture.
- Tumble Dryer
Optimise your tumble dryer usage by adding tumble dryer balls. These nifty additions can accelerate drying time by as much as 28%. As they bounce amidst the laundry load, they work to soften fibres, prevent tangling, and reduce creases, making your clothes not only easier to iron but also more efficient to dry.
- Electric Heated Clothes Airers
Go with electric heated drying. Airers present a fantastic alternative to traditional tumble dryers. They’re incredibly convenient, energy-efficient, and cost-effective to operate, and they significantly speed up the drying process for your clothes.
- Set a Drying Area
If you’re lucky enough to have a spare or unused room, designate it as a dedicated laundry space for your drying racks. Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows while keeping the door shut, allowing fresh air to circulate effectively.
- Use Hanging Techniques
An effective drying process involves hanging clothes on hangers and suspending them from the curtain rail with a slightly open window. This method surprisingly accelerates drying time while minimising creases, making clothes easier to iron.
- Wash Winter Coat Twice:
Ensure your winter coats remain in top condition during the chilly months. Taking care of them is crucial, and a minimum of two washes throughout winter is recommended. Here’s a simple method: Begin by pouring laundry detergent into cold water and immersing the jacket. Transfer the coat to the washing machine, opting for a gentle cycle lasting around 30 minutes. Before drying, gently squeeze out excess water and use deficient heat.
Pro tip: Consider tossing a few tennis balls into the dryer along with the winter coat; this aids in restoring its fluffiness!
- Steer Clear of Radiators
Avoid placing clothes directly on radiators, as this can strain your boiler and lead to increased heating costs. Professional laundry service near me insists on using radiator drying racks or airers to hang items away from the radiator itself.
- Prioritise Ventilation
Maintain good ventilation by opening windows to allow fresh air to circulate freely. This practice not only prevents moisture-related damage but also creates a more pleasant and fresher indoor environment. It’s especially crucial on days when damp laundry is drying indoors, as fresh air replaces stagnant air, fostering a healthier indoor climate.
- Dehumidifiers
Dehumidifiers are a fantastic addition to drying clothes and reducing allergens at home. Some of the latest models even come equipped with settings designed specifically for drying laundry. Their primary function is to eliminate excess moisture from the air, effectively combating the evaporation that leads to condensation, creating a damp environment in which mould spores and dust mites thrive—a nightmare for allergy sufferers.
- Choose Outdoor Drying:
During cold, sunny winter days, take advantage of the weather by drying clothes outside. Lightweight cotton items like shirts and bedding can completely dry when exposed to the elements, though it may take most of the day. Hanging clothes outdoors keeps them fresh and well-ventilated, preventing moisture from getting trapped in the fabric, which can cause musty odours. Storing clean, aired garments also prolongs their lifespan, ensuring your favourites remain favourites for a longer time. Whenever possible, choose outdoor drying for your winter laundry.
Conclusion:
Mastering winter laundry is crucial for maintaining winter wear. Hello Laundry’s professional services offer expert care, ensuring your garments endure the season. Hello Laundry, a professional laundry service near me offering convenience and quality—a reliable solution for superior winter laundry care.
