Drying clothes may seem like a simple task, but doing it correctly can make a big difference in how long your clothes last and how fresh they feel. Whether you’re using a dryer or hanging your clothes out to dry, there are a few best practices that can help keep your garments in great condition. Here is your breakdown of key tips to make sure your laundry is dried the right way.

Sort Your Clothes Properly

Before tossing everything into the dryer, make sure you sort your laundry by fabric type. Heavy fabrics like towels and jeans should be dried separately from delicate items such as lingerie or lightweight shirts. This not only protects your delicate clothes from potential damage but also ensures that your heavier items dry faster and more evenly.

Use the Right Dryer Settings

Dryers offer different settings for a reason, and choosing the right one is crucial. High heat can shrink or damage delicate fabrics, while low heat might not be effective for heavier items. Generally: Low heat works best for delicates and synthetic fabrics.

Often: Medium heat is suitable for everyday items like T-shirts and dresses. High heat is perfect for towels, jeans, and heavy cotton items. Make sure to check the garment care label before selecting your heat setting to avoid shrinkage or damage.

Don’t Overload the Dryer

Overloading the dryer is a common mistake that can lead to uneven drying. Clothes need space to tumble and for air to circulate properly. A crowded dryer means longer drying times, more wrinkles, and potentially damp clothes even after a full cycle. Keep it balanced and check your  filled for optimal results.

Use Dryer Balls or Clean Tennis Balls

For those items that tend to clump together, like comforters or blankets, adding dryer balls or clean tennis balls to the dryer can help. These will help separate items, allowing air to circulate better and speeding up the drying process. As a bonus, they also help to reduce static and wrinkles.

Hang Dry When Possible

Certain items like wool sweaters, bras, or swimwear should never be put in the dryer due to their delicate nature. Hang drying is a gentle alternative that prevents shrinkage and damage. If you’re air-drying indoors, choose a well-ventilated area and avoid placing garments directly in sunlight, which can cause fading. For bulky items like sweaters, drying flat on a towel helps maintain their shape.

Gently Untangle Clothes Before Drying

Before you toss your laundry into the dryer, give your clothes a good shake. This helps to prevent clothes from sticking together, which allows them to dry more evenly and with fewer wrinkles. Untangle items like jeans or towels before placing them in the dryer also helps improve airflow and speeds up the drying process.

Check for Dampness Before Ending the Cycle

One trick to avoiding over-drying (and wasting energy) is to check your clothes periodically, especially as the cycle nears its end. Overdrying can lead to stiff clothes and unnecessary wear, while ending the cycle when garments are slightly damp can make ironing easier.

Clean the Lint Trap Regularly

A clogged lint trap is not only inefficient but also a fire hazard. Cleaning the lint filter after every load helps your dryer work more effectively and ensures proper airflow, which can shorten drying times. Additionally, it reduces the risk of overheating.

Avoid Fabric Softener Sheets for Certain Clothes

While fabric softener sheets can help reduce static, they can also coat the dryer drum and your clothes with a thin layer of residue. This residue can reduce the absorbency of towels and athletic wear. For a natural alternative, consider using wool dryer balls, which soften clothes without chemicals.

Store Your Clothes Properly After Drying

Once your clothes are dry, it’s important to remove them from the dryer promptly to avoid wrinkles. If you can’t fold or hang your clothes immediately, consider using the “wrinkle release” function on your dryer for a few extra minutes of low heat tumbling to freshen them up.

Wrapping Up

Drying clothes may seem like a routine chore, but following these best practices can help you prolong the life of your wardrobe and ensure your clothes are fresh and in great condition. Whether you prefer to dry with a machine or air dry, the key is to understand the fabric types and adjust your methods accordingly. With a little extra care, you can keep your clothes looking new for longer.

By practicing these tips, not only will your clothes last longer, but you’ll also save energy and reduce wear on your dryer, making it a win for both your wardrobe and your wallet.