Drying clothes can often feel like it takes forever. Whether you are trying to get a load of laundry ready for the week ahead or need an outfit dried quickly for that evening, slow drying times can be super frustrating. Luckily, there are several tips and tricks you can use to cut down the time it takes for clothes to dry. In this article, we will explore the fastest ways to speed up drying time for your laundry.
Use a drying rack or hanging drying system
One of the easiest ways to cut drying time is to use a drying rack, hanging drying system, or clothesline instead of the dryer. Air drying allows maximum air circulation around each item which helps them dry much faster than being balled up in the dryer. Purchase a sturdy drying rack or retractable clothes line to set up in an area with good airflow. Make sure to space out clothing items so air can fully circulate around each piece. This method alone can cut an hour or more off drying times.
You can also hang clothes on hangers and space them out on doors, shower rods, or banisters. Wherever you have space to hang clothing so it’s not bunched together, take advantage of it when air drying. Just be sure to empty pockets first so you don’t end up with pens, tissues or other items falling out once dry!
Use dryer balls
Dryer balls are another secret weapon for cutting drying time. These lightweight balls are placed in the dryer along with your wet clothes and help separate clothes and increase airflow. The constant tumbling motion of the dryer causes the balls to bounce around your laundry, keeping items from sticking together or balling up. This allows the heated air to circulate fully and dry your clothes much more efficiently. Dryer balls can cut drying time by 25% or more.
Check lint trap and vents
A dirty lint trap or clogged vents are two of the main culprits behind increased drying times. Start by cleaning out your lint trap before every load. Lint buildup will restrict airflow and efficiency. Next, inspect the vent hose that runs from your dryer to the outside of your home. Make sure it is clear of lint and debris. Use a vent brush to clean it out if necessary. A clogged vent hose can add up to 30 minutes to each drying cycle. Keeping both the lint trap and vent hose clear is key for optimal performance.
Use high heat for part of the cycle
Running your dryer on high heat will definitely speed up drying time. However, extremely high heat can damage fabrics over time and increase energy costs. A good compromise is to run the dryer on high heat for 10-20 minutes before dropping it down to a lower setting to finish drying. Those first high heat minutes will rapidly remove moisture and cut initial drying time without the full damage of high heat the whole cycle. Just don’t forget to return it to a lower temp or you risk harming your clothing.
Load size matters
Try drying smaller loads if time is limited. The fewer wet clothes in the dryer, the faster they will dry. Larger loads take more time for the air to fully circulate and remove moisture. If you are in a hurry, only dry the items you need immediately in a smaller load. Return later for larger batches. For optimal speed, only fill the dryer drum halfway rather than completely packed.
Use dryer sheets
Dryer sheets are another handy tool for cutting drying time. These fabric softener sheets reduce static cling which allows clothes to tumble freely instead of sticking together. Dryer sheets help items separate and allow more airflow. Switch to anti-static dryer sheets or wool dryer balls to maximize this effect. Just avoid overly fragrant brands as perfumes can leave residue on the dryer sensor that slows drying.
Check settings
Make sure you are using the optimal dryer setting for what you are attempting to dry. The normal or cotton setting is best for most loads. But more delicate items like lingerie may require a lower temp. While heavy items like towels often dry better on a high heat sanitize setting. Adjusting the dryer setting appropriately can prevent over-drying lighter items and under-drying heavy ones. Both scenarios increase overall drying time.
Clean out dryer
A dirty dryer may run inefficiently or have blocked sensors that decrease drying speed. Clean the inside of your dryer every few months to remove built up lint and dust. Wipe down the drum, vent, and sensors with a microfiber cloth and all-purpose cleaner. Avoid chemical cleaners that could leave residue on the sensors. Finish by running an empty dryer cycle on air fluff/no heat mode to remove any lingering debris. Your dryer will run like new again.
Use dryer balls
As mentioned previously, dryer balls are a cheap but effective way to cut drying times. These balls help break up clothes and maintain airflow instead of letting items clump together. Dryer balls are available in plastic and wool varieties. Wool is best for reducing static. Add 2-3 balls per load and let their motion work magic by spreading out your clothes.
Pre-treat stains
Stained or soiled clothes can take much longer to fully dry because moisture gets trapped in concentrated areas. Pretreat heavily stained and soiled sections with stain remover, enzyme cleaner, or detergent before washing. Use a brush or toothbrush to work it in. This will help lift dirt and stains so moisture isn’t held in those concentrated areas during the drying process.
Avoid overloading
It can be tempting to pack as many clothes as possible into each load. But overloading will only slow down drying time. Clothes need room to tumble freely so air can circulate between each piece. Aim to fill the drum only 2/3 or 3/4 full at most. Less is better for faster drying. Only pack tightly if you are doing a small load of just a few items.
Maintenance
Keep your dryer well maintained for maximum efficiency and drying power. Clean the lint trap before every load without fail. Use a vent brush and hose to clear lint out of the vent pipe annually. Vacuum out the dryer cabinet and wipe down the drum, sensors and interior every few months. And call a technician if you notice any issues like strange noises, longer drying times or hot spots on the drum. Proper maintenance prevents many drying issues.
Fabric softener
While fabric softener makes clothes smell great, it can coat fabric fibers and reduce absorbency. This may cause clothing to retain more moisture and take longer to dry. Use fabric softener sparingly, dilute it, or skip it altogether if you are in a rush. Just realize your laundry may be a bit stiffer without it. Vinegar also works as a natural fabric softener.
Check exhaust
Ensure your dryer has a proper exhaust setup. Gas dryers require outdoor ventilation, while electric models can exhaust indoors or out. Make sure the hose runs directly outdoors or into a vent box kit if venting into the room. Avoid excess bends and kinks that can trap lint and clog the hose. Proper exhaust setup is key for reducing drying times.
Clean lint trap
We can’t emphasize enough how important it is to clean the lint trap before each and every load. Lint buildup is a fire hazard and will slow down the speed and efficiency of your dryer. Make it the first step of your process before adding clothes and starting a cycle. Use a brush or toothpick to dislodge caught lint if needed. A clean trap prevents clogs.
Location matters
Where you locate your dryer can impact drying time. Dryers work best with plenty of room for airflow around them. Avoid cramping your dryer into a closet or non-ventilated area. Position it with a few feet clearance on all sides if possible. Also be sure to elevate on a stand or install above a washer so rising heat isn’t trapped. Proper location encourages airflow.
Use dryer balls
Dryer balls are specially designed balls you throw in with wet laundry to help expedite drying time. As your dryer tumbles, these lightweight balls bounce around clothes breaking up clumps and allowing better airflow. Dryer balls prevent clothes from balling up and trapping moisture. Over time lint can build up on the balls so make sure to remove and clean them regularly for maximum effectiveness.
Clean the sensor
Most dryers have a moisture sensor bar that tells the machine when clothes are dry. If this sensor becomes coated in residue it can give false readings and end cycles prematurely. Wipe down the sensor with rubbing alcohol every few months to remove any buildup. Use a cotton swab to clean the crevices around wires. A clean sensor helps your dryer run accurately.
Check load size
It’s easy to just throw a full load of wet clothes into the dryer out of habit. But for faster drying, try reducing load size. With less clothes, air can circulate better and there’s more room for tumbling action. Heat and airflow will be able to penetrate smaller loads much quicker. Although you may need to run additional cycles, each one will dry faster thanks to less clothing.
Clean the ducts
Lint can easily accumulate in clothes dryer ductwork leading to clogs. Clogged ducts restrict airflow and drying efficiency. Inspect your dryer ducting once a year and use a special duct cleaning brush to remove any built up lint. Flexible ducts are especially prone to clogs. A clean duct system prevents restricted airflow for faster drying.
Use lower heat
Although it seems counterintuitive, using a lower heat setting can sometimes cut down on drying time. High heat can over-dry clothing, harden fibers and seal in lingering moisture. Medium or low heat allows clothes to dry gradually without over-crisping them. Start on high but reduce heat halfway through larger loads. Lower heat with frequent air circulation dries optimally.
Dry similar items together
Like materials and fabric types will dry most efficiently when dried together. Group lighter items in one load and heavier ones like towels in another. Don’t dry a big cotton towel with silk lingerie. The differing materials and thicknesses require different settings. Also avoid mixing extremely soiled items with lightly worn clothes. Similar items dried together finish around the same time.
Check dryer model
Newer dryer models often include sensors and cycles that optimize drying time. Look for options like auto-dry cycles, moisture sensors, steam cycles, and specialty settings for towels, jeans and more. Digital display dryers make it easier to program exact times and settings. If your dryer is more than 5-7 years old, a new model could cut your drying time significantly thanks to improved technology and sensors.
Conclusion
No one wants to be stuck waiting for clothes to dry. Luckily there are many tips you can use to improve airflow, circulation and efficiency and cut down drying times significantly. Try venting outdoors, using dryer balls, cleaning your lint trap and vents, running initial high heat, loading properly and using moisture sensing settings. With a few simple tricks, you’ll be able to get your clothes dried and ready to wear in no time. Implement a few of these suggestions and say goodbye to dripping wet laundry and forever cycles.