No tumble dryer? Seven budget-friendly tips for drying your bed sheets fast
Drying your bedding in winter without access to a tumble dryer or washing line can be a nightmare. Sheets and duvets are too large to hang over radiators (if that is even an option), and who wants a home full of cold, damp washing that never seems to get dry?
Ideally you should wash your bed sheets at least every one to two weeks. But what if you are struggling to dry them indoors due to the cold weather? Martin Seeley, sleep expert and CEO of MattressNextDay, shares his top seven budget-friendly tips to tackle this common household challenge.
1) Master the extra spin cycle
The spin cycle is your first line of defence against prolonged drying times. An additional spin can remove up to 30% more moisture from your bedsheets. Just be cautious with delicate fabrics and check the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging your linens.
2) Time your washes
Wash your bed sheets in the morning for optimal drying. Daytime offers warmer temperatures and better natural air circulation. Avoid doing laundry late in the evening when temperatures drop, as this significantly slows down the drying process. Aim to start your sheet wash before midday to maximise drying potential.
3) Make the most of your humid bathroom
Not many people know but your bathroom can be an ideal drying space for bed sheets. If you have a large drying rack, position it near the bathroom’s extractor fan or window. The combination of residual bathroom humidity and air circulation can help sheets dry more quickly.
4) Use your hair dryer
For stubborn damp spots on your bed sheets, a hair dryer can be a strategic tool. Use it carefully on specific areas that remain wet, keeping the dryer moving to prevent fabric damage. This works particularly well for areas like the center of the sheet that tend to retain moisture.
5) Roll your sheets in a towel
Create a quick-dry method by using a clean, dry towel. Lay your damp bed sheet flat on a towel, then roll it up tightly. Press down to help the towel absorb excess moisture. Unroll and then hang near a radiator or warm area to complete the drying process.
6) Buy the right bed sheets
Different bed sheet materials dry at different rate. Cotton sheets absorb more moisture and take longer to dry, while microfiber or bamboo sheets dry much faster. If you’re struggling with drying times, consider investing in quick-drying sheet materials.
For cotton sheets, try spreading them out completely flat on the drying rack, ensuring maximum air exposure. Avoid folding or bunching, which can create damp pockets that take hours to dry.
7) Try the ‘shake and separate’ technique
Before hanging your sheets, give them a vigorous shake. This simple action helps separate the fabric fibers, allowing better air circulation. Shaking also prevents sheets from clumping together, which can create damp pockets that take much longer to dry. It’s a quick trick that can significantly reduce overall drying time.
