What is the most economical way to dry clothes?

Drying clothes efficiently is a concern for many households, especially as energy costs continue to rise. Whether you live in a small flat or a large house, the way you dry your clothes can have a significant impact on your energy bills and environmental footprint.

This guide explores the most economical methods of drying clothes, from natural air drying to optimising tumble dryer use. By the end of this article, you'll have a clear understanding of how to dry clothes cost-effectively while keeping them fresh and free from damp.

Why Economical Clothes Drying Matters

Before diving into specific methods, it's essential to understand why drying clothes economically is so important.

1. Reducing Energy Bills

Tumble dryers are among the most energy-intensive household appliances. A standard dryer cycle can cost anywhere from £0.30 to £1.50 depending on the model and energy prices. By switching to more cost-effective drying methods, you could save hundreds of pounds annually.

2. Environmental Benefits

Reducing electricity and gas usage lowers your carbon footprint. The more energy-efficient your drying method, the less impact you have on the environment.

3. Extending Clothing Lifespan

Tumble dryers expose fabrics to heat and friction, which can cause shrinkage, fading, and faster wear and tear. Air drying and other gentle methods help clothing last longer.

4. Avoiding Damp and Mould Issues

Drying clothes indoors can cause condensation, leading to mould and mildew growth. Finding the best drying method ensures your home stays healthy and mould-free.

The Best Economical Ways to Dry Clothes

1. Outdoor Line Drying: The Cheapest and Most Eco-Friendly Method

Hanging clothes outside is the most cost-effective way to dry them. It’s free, requires no electricity, and gives clothes a fresh, natural scent.

Benefits of Line Drying

✔ Zero cost – Uses natural air and sunlight.
✔ Prevents damp indoors – No condensation inside your home.
✔ Kills bacteria and odours – UV rays from the sun help disinfect clothes.
✔ Reduces ironing – A gentle breeze naturally softens fabric, reducing wrinkles.

Tips for Effective Outdoor Drying

• Use a sturdy washing line – Invest in a quality rotary dryer or retractable line.

• Space clothes evenly – Good airflow speeds up drying.

• Dry in direct sunlight when possible – Sunlight helps bleach and refresh white garments.

• Turn clothes inside out – This prevents fading from UV rays.

• Secure with pegs – Stops clothes from blowing away on windy days.

What If the Weather Is Bad?

• Dry clothes outside under a covered area (e.g., a carport or gazebo).

• Use an airer near an open window for ventilation.

• Consider a heated airer as a backup option (more on this below).

2. Indoor Air Drying: The Next Best Alternative

If outdoor drying isn’t an option, the next most economical method is drying clothes indoors on an airer. However, it must be done properly to avoid damp and mould.

Best Practices for Indoor Drying

✔ Use a foldable drying rack – These maximise space and airflow.
✔ Place near a radiator (but not directly on it) – Heat speeds up drying but placing clothes directly on radiators increases humidity.
✔ Improve ventilation – Open windows or use a dehumidifier to prevent moisture build-up.
✔ Hang heavier items separately – This prevents them from weighing down other clothes.

Ideal Locations for Indoor Drying

• Spare rooms – A well-ventilated, unused room is best.

• Bathrooms – If equipped with an extractor fan.

• Near open windows – To allow excess moisture to escape.

• On a landing or hallway – Where air circulation is better.

3. Using a Heated Airer: A Low-Energy Alternative

A heated airer (or electric drying rack) is a low-cost alternative to tumble dryers. They use much less electricity, costing around 3p–10p per hour, compared to a tumble dryer’s 30p–80p per cycle.

Advantages of Heated Airers

✔ Much cheaper than a tumble dryer – Uses a fraction of the energy.
✔ Faster than unheated racks – Heat speeds up drying without damaging clothes.
✔ Portable and space-saving – Can be folded away when not in use.

Maximising Efficiency

• Use a drying cover to trap heat and speed up drying.

• Place it in a well-ventilated area to prevent condensation.

• Rotate clothes for even drying.

4. Dehumidifier Drying: A Great Energy-Saving Trick

Using a dehumidifier to dry clothes can be more efficient than a tumble dryer. It costs around 5p–10p per hour, significantly less than a dryer, while also reducing household moisture.

How It Works

• Place the dehumidifier in a small room with drying clothes.

• Close the doors to concentrate the drying effect.

• Clothes can dry overnight with minimal cost.

✔ Cheaper than tumble dryers
✔ Prevents damp and mould
✔ Also improves air quality

5. The Most Efficient Way to Use a Tumble Dryer (If You Must Use One)

Sometimes, using a tumble dryer is unavoidable. If so, follow these tips to make it as economical as possible.

Energy-Saving Tumble Dryer Tips

✔ Use a high spin speed on your washing machine – Removes more water before drying.
✔ Dry similar fabrics together – Thick towels dry slower than lightweight fabrics.
✔ Clean the lint filter regularly – Improves airflow and efficiency.
✔ Use dryer balls – These reduce drying time by up to 25%.
✔ Avoid overloading – Air needs to circulate for effective drying.

Choosing an Energy-Efficient Dryer

• Heat pump dryers use up to 50% less electricity than standard models.

• Look for an A+++ energy rating for the lowest running costs.

Comparing the Cost of Different Drying Methods

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Method?

For maximum savings, outdoor drying is the best option. When that’s not possible, a combination of indoor air drying, heated airers, and dehumidifiers is the next best choice.

If you must use a tumble dryer, make it as efficient as possible by using dryer balls, cleaning the filter, and spinning clothes well beforehand.

By making small adjustments to your drying habits, you can cut energy costs, extend your clothes’ lifespan, and reduce your environmental impact—all while keeping your laundry fresh and dry.