Dry clothes quicker without it costing lots of money.
09:25, 22 Nov 2025Updated 09:25, 22 Nov 2025
Ditch dryers and heated airers to dry clothes in winter as there is a much ‘faster’ method(Image: Getty)
Getting your washing dry during the colder months can prove maddening for anyone attempting to slash their energy costs, but there’s a straightforward method to achieve dry and fresh smelling clothes without seeing the energy bills rise.
The majority of households choose to drape clothing on an airing rack when temperatures plunge and drying outdoors is no longer an option. Whilst tumble dryers offer tremendous convenience, they rank amongst the most power-hungry appliances in any property and can see bills rising.
However there’s one home appliance that could be useful instead and dry clothes quicker and still leave them smelling fresh, without costing thousands.
READ MORE: BBC expert says use 8p alternative to ‘demon’ energy hog applianceREAD MORE: Home hack costing just £7.51 will slash your bills this winter
Mark Walker, a laundry expert from Denver Wash and Fold, champions employing dehumidifiers during colder months heading into winter, as they maintain both clothing and properties moisture-free.
A dehumidifier can help to dry clothes at home faster and quicker(Image: Getty)
Speaking to The Express, he said: “Banish mould and mildew for good by introducing a dehumidifier into your winter drying routine. Not only will it remove moisture from your clothes faster, it’ll also make your home into a healthier environment. Place the device nearby and watch the tank fill up while you enjoy a well-deserved hot cocoa.”
Dehumidifiers aren’t just great at rapidly drying clothing, but they also absorb any dampness within a space to stop mould from developing. Another savvy hack to get the most out of drying with a dehumidifier is to ensure you put garments through an additional spin cycle before removing them from the washing machine, as this will eliminate any surplus moisture.
Mark added, “If you’re looking for a more economical alternative to tumble drying, then an extra spin cycle might be the answer.
“On average, it takes less energy to spin water out of the load than it does to heat it up and dry it, so go ahead and extract some extra moisture at the end of a wash.”
The secret to achieving rapid clothes drying during winter months is minimising moisture content, so ensure the space where you’re drying washing has maximum ventilation possible. You should also open windows throughout the day to generate increased air flow. Additionally, separate laundry when hanging to provide ample room for drying.
Dehumidifiers can also help absorb any dampness within a space to stop mould from developing(Image: Getty)
Mark advised, “Give your laundry plenty of space, instead of bunching it all together. Your items will dry much quicker, smell fresher and wrinkle far less.”
Whilst it can be tempting to hang washing on radiators, draping laundry on these can discharge excessive moisture into the atmosphere and cause garments to develop a stale odour.
Mark warned, “Contrary to popular belief, not only is it a potential fire hazard, it’s also a breeding ground for condensation and mould.
“Instead of hanging clothes directly on the radiators, why not invest in a radiator drying rack instead? These space-saving devices are cheap, cheerful and great for speed-drying laundry on a cold day.”