Got a date coming up but your favorite outfit is still damp? And to make things worse—it’s pouring outside. If you don’t have a dryer and don’t want to turn your home into a sauna by draping clothes over your radiators, don’t worry. There’s a surprisingly easy trick you can use with your washing machine—even if it doesn’t have a drying function.
Let’s explore how to use your washer as a makeshift dryer and share a few smart tips to dry clothes indoors efficiently, especially when the weather’s working against you.
Why Drying Clothes in Winter Is a Challenge
In the colder months, moisture hangs in the air, and drying laundry outdoors becomes nearly impossible. Rain, snow, and freezing temperatures don’t exactly make for ideal drying conditions. For many people without a tumble dryer, this can turn into a daily struggle.
Using your radiator might seem like a quick fix, but it’s not the healthiest option. Not only does it increase indoor humidity—which can harm your lungs over time—but it also risks creating a breeding ground for mold.
So, what’s a better solution? Believe it or not, your regular washing machine can help.
The Towel Trick: Use Your Washing Machine to Speed Up Drying
If you need to dry your clothes in a pinch, try this clever method:
- Place your damp clothes back in the washing machine.
- Add a clean, dry bath towel—make sure it’s spread out and not bunched up.
- Run a spin cycle on the highest speed setting.
What happens next? The dry towel acts like a sponge, soaking up extra water from your clothes during the spin. Once the cycle ends, your laundry will be significantly drier—and the towel will be the one doing most of the heavy lifting.
Afterward, just hang your clothes up, and they’ll need only a short time to finish drying—perhaps just a few minutes near a heater (if absolutely necessary).
More Handy Tips for Drying Clothes on Rainy Days
Run an Extra Spin Cycle
Right after your regular wash finishes, start another spin cycle. This helps remove even more water and drastically cuts down drying time once your clothes are hung up.
Flip and Space Out Clothes While Hanging
Hang your clothes in a well-ventilated area—away from walls and out of damp corners. After a few hours, turn garments inside out to let the other side dry faster. And make sure each item has breathing room. Overlapping clothes can trap moisture and slow down drying.
Use a Dehumidifier
If you have a dehumidifier, now’s the time to use it. Place it near your laundry rack to pull excess moisture from the air. It not only speeds up drying but also prevents your home from getting too humid—great for your health and your walls!