Why optimise drying laundry in your flat?
Drying clothes in a flat can be a challenge, especially if you have limited space. It's essential to make the most of your space to avoid damp, unpleasant odours and to keep your clothes in good condition. With a few tricks, you can make this drying more efficient by maximising available space.
The best ways to dry your washing in a flat
Foldable drying rack
A folding clotheshorse is a classic for small spaces. Its compact fold-up design unfolds easily and it can be stored away once your clothes are dry. Remember to choose a vertical model to save floor space.
Hanging clothesline
If you have high ceilings or a balcony, a hanging clothesline can be an ideal solution, allowing you to dry a large quantity of clothes while freeing up floor space.
Retractable clothesline
A retractable clothesline can be installed in the bathroom or another room discreetly, and stored away when not in use. It's a simple solution for efficient drying without taking up space.
Compact tumble dryer
Compact tumble dryers or combined washer-dryers are ideal for flats. They save time, even though their capacity is often more limited than conventional models’.
Tips for optimising laundry drying in your flat
Maximize air circulation
Good air circulation is essential for fast, odour-free drying. Place your clothes near open windows or in well-ventilated rooms to help moisture evaporate.
Use fans or dehumidifiers
A fan or dehumidifier can speed up drying greatly by removing excess moisture from the air, particularly useful in winter or wet weather.
Avoid overloading hanging racks
Make sure your clothes are not too tightly packed on the drying rack. Plenty of space between items allows air to circulate better, which means faster, more even drying.
Pre-dry in the machine
If you have a washing machine with a powerful spin cycle, use it to remove as much water as possible before hanging your clothes out to dry. This will reduce drying time and humidity in your flat.
See also: Laundry care basics: a beginner’s guide
Mistakes to avoid when drying laundry in a flat
Drying clothes in unventilated rooms
Avoid drying your clothes in unventilated rooms, such as closets or windowless bathrooms. Moisture can build up, causing mould and unpleasant odours.
Forgetting to turn the washing
For even drying, remember to turn your clothes over halfway through the drying process. This allows the heat and air to be distributed evenly across the surface of the fabric.
Trying to dry clothes in damp rooms
Avoid drying your clothes in rooms that are already damp, such as the bathroom after a shower. This slows down the drying process and increases the risk of mould growth.