Hang drying clothes is not only an eco-friendly alternative to using a dryer but also a cost-saving method that helps maintain the quality of your clothing. With the average household saving up to $100 per year on energy costs by hanging clothes, this simple technique is becoming increasingly popular.
I went shopping for groceries with some of my friends; we didn’t plan to buy any other thing apart from groceries, that was grocery day!. But on passing by the clothing section, I saw it, the beautiful dress with a bright color. I decided to check it out. I felt the fabric and knew I had to get this dress; the quality was superb! Although the amount was jaw-breaking, I couldn’t let go.
A few weeks later, I found that my expensive dress was losing its quality, and this was due to the traditional dryer I have been using for my clothes’. This disheartening experience is what some people go through when they sometimes use traditional dryers to dry their clothes.
Some others have found the solution to that problem by hang drying their clothes, either by themselves or using hang dry services. Before we consider why you should hang dry or how to hang dry benefits you, let’s understand first what it means to hang dry.
What is Hang Dry?
To hang dry or ‘line dry,’ your clothing article, e.g., your jeans, active wears, and underwear, means to hang your clothes on a clothesline using a cloth hanger or clothespin to secure it and allow it to dry. Hang drying could either be indoors or outdoor, but it is advisable to dry outside so that sunlight, fresh air, and breeze can dry it.
Instead of bringing out those clothes from the washer and tossing them straight into the dryer, learn to hang dry, especially for your home cleaning.
Hang Dry Benefits
Some benefits of drying clothes in the sun include:
- Nature lovers would agree that using the sun and fresh air to dry clothes instead of machines that pollute the environment is eco-friendly and a way of appreciating nature.
- Most traditional dryers need electricity to function and, as such, consume much energy, therefore hang dring is energy-saving and pocket friendly when it comes to paying for the high electrical bills that come with using dryers.
- Clothing materials are made to go through high heat, tossing and tumbling for an extended period in the dryer. This could damage the clothes and make them lose their quality. Dryers can also cause clothing articles to wither and shrink, thereby shortening the life of the material.
- Environmental Benefits: Hang drying significantly reduces your carbon footprint. The energy savings add up quickly, especially in regions where electricity costs are high.
- Longevity of Clothes: Avoid the harsh tumbling action of a dryer that can cause fabric fibers to break down. Clothes last longer and retain their shape when air-dried.
- Health Benefits: Avoid chemicals and fragrances from fabric softeners and dryer sheets by choosing natural drying methods.
Therefore, to hang dry benefits you by preserving clothes and allowing them last longer.
- Some people ask, why do line dried clothes smell good? The sun’s ultraviolet rays also help disinfect clothes, remove stains from clothes, and whiten them.
- Drying clothes in the sun gives you that bright sunny smell and makes your clothes smell good.
Common Mistakes in Hang Drying And How to Hang Dry Properly
Choose the Right Space: Make sure to use a well-ventilated area. A sunny spot speeds up the drying process, while a shaded area helps avoid color fading.
When hanging clothes on the clothesline, some people make the mistake of not leaving any space between the clothing, this would prevent the garment from drying faster. Spacing clothing materials would allow for adequate air circulation and thereby quicken the drying process.
It is also recommended to hang large clothing like bedspread etc. before hanging smaller clothing on managing space and ensuring proper home cleaning.
Use the Right Hangers or Line: Invest in sturdy hangers or drying racks to avoid stretched-out clothes. For heavier items, a thick clothesline is recommended.”
Sun bleaching: The ultraviolet rays from the sun can ruin brightly colored fabrics. It would be best to turn these clothing inside out or hang under a shade, preferably outdoors under a tree. But the UV ray is precisely what your white clothes need to whitten.
Weather Condition: The weather condition should be a determinant of hang drying whether you’re doing it by yourself or using hang dry services. A quick rain shower that comes with dirt particles and leaves or high winds can stain laundry and would require re-washing. It would also be wise to check for pollen counts before hang drying.
Environment: Clothing should not be spread in an environment with a bad smell like animal farm odor, diesel fuel, or chemical and manufacturing plants. This is because these clothing can absorb such odor. Instead, look for an environment with a pleasant scent like a sweet-smelling meadow.
One common mistake is overcrowding the drying rack. Overlapping clothes reduces air circulation and can lead to musty smells. Be sure to leave enough space between garments for optimal airflow.”
Hang dry can be used not only for home cleaning alone; laundry services that value quality over quantity offer hang dry services irrespective of the extra time it takes. At Soji Cleaners, clients can be sure that their clothes are hang dried, and the quality retained.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Hang Drying Clothes
Q: How long does it take to hang dry clothes?
A: The time it takes to hang dry clothes depends on several factors, including the type of fabric, humidity, temperature, and air circulation. In general, lightweight fabrics like cotton can take 2-4 hours to dry, while thicker materials like towels or denim may take 6-8 hours or longer. Hanging clothes outside in direct sunlight will speed up the process compared to indoor drying in a shaded area.
Q: Can I hang dry clothes indoors?
A: Yes, you can hang dry clothes indoors. It’s a good option during colder months or when outdoor drying isn’t feasible. Just ensure that the room is well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold or mildew. Using a drying rack near a window or using a dehumidifier can help speed up the drying process indoors.
Q: What’s the best way to prevent wrinkles when hang drying clothes?
A: To prevent wrinkles while hang drying, make sure to shake out each item before hanging it. Smooth out any creases to help them dry flat. For garments like shirts and dresses, hang them by the shoulders or use hangers to keep their shape. For pants, hang them by the waistband and use clips to prevent sagging.
Q: Is hang drying clothes more eco-friendly than using a dryer?
A: Yes, hang drying clothes is significantly more eco-friendly than using a dryer. By air-drying clothes, you reduce your carbon footprint since it eliminates the need for electricity. Clothes dryers consume a lot of energy, whereas line-drying uses no electricity at all and helps conserve natural resources.
Q: Will hang drying my clothes cause them to shrink?
A: Hang drying is less likely to cause clothes to shrink compared to using a dryer. The high heat of a dryer can cause fabric fibers to contract. When you hang dry your clothes, especially at lower temperatures, the fibers retain their natural shape and size. However, some fabrics like wool or cotton may still shrink slightly when washed if they’re not properly handled.
Q: How do I keep clothes smelling fresh while hang drying?
A: To keep clothes smelling fresh when hang drying, ensure they are fully clean before hanging them up. Avoid overloading your washing machine, as it can leave detergent residue on clothes. If you hang your clothes in a well-ventilated area, this will help prevent any musty or damp smells. You can also use natural fabric softeners like white vinegar or essential oils to add a fresh scent during the wash.
Q: Can I hang dry delicate fabrics like silk and wool?
A: Yes, you can hang dry delicate fabrics, but you should take extra care. For silk, wool, and other delicate fabrics, it’s best to lay them flat to dry or hang them in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight, which can cause fading or damage. Always check the care labels on delicate items to ensure they can be safely air-dried.
Q. What is the best time of day to hang dry clothes outside?
A: The best time to hang dry clothes outside is during the middle of the day when the sun is at its peak, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM. This is when the sunlight and airflow are strongest, which speeds up the drying process. However, if you live in a humid climate, try to hang clothes early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the air is less saturated.
Q: Can I hang dry towels and heavy items like blankets?
A: Yes, you can hang dry towels and heavier items like blankets, but they may take longer to dry than lighter clothing. When drying heavy items, make sure to hang them with enough space between them to allow for proper air circulation. You can also flip them periodically to ensure both sides dry evenly.
Q: How can I speed up the drying process when hang drying clothes?
A: To speed up the drying process, ensure your clothes are spread out evenly and have plenty of space between them. If drying outdoors, try to hang clothes on a clothesline in direct sunlight and in a spot with good airflow. If drying indoors, place your drying rack near a fan or a heater to help circulate air and accelerate the drying time.