Fashion lovers know that preserving the lifespan of your clothing starts with proper laundering. Using a dryer to dry your clothes can cause damage to your garments, so a great solution for drying your clothing without compromising its quality and lifespan is to air dry it. Air drying your clothing is also an eco-friendly alternative that uses the power of nature to reduce energy consumption, prevent shrinkage of clothing and preserve the vibrant colors and delicate fabrics of your garments.

Whether you’re looking to save on your utility bills, make the most of your space, or appreciate the art of air drying, these tips will help you make the most out of this sustainable laundry practice.

Location, Location, Location

One of the most important things you can do when air drying is to select the right location. Look for a well-ventilated area where your clothes can dry quickly and efficiently. Hang garments outside on a clothesline or a drying rack on sunny days. Natural sunlight works to naturally bleach and disinfect fabrics.

Hang Properly

Before hanging your garments, sort them by fabric type and weight. Delicate pieces like lingerie or knitwear should be laid out flat on a clean towel or mesh drying rack to retain their shape. Hang heavy items like jeans or towels on sturdy hangers or clotheslines. This sorting process ensures that garments dry properly without being wrinkled or stretched.

Shake and Smooth

Give your garments a gentle shake to release wrinkles before hanging them to air dry. Smooth the garments with your hands to minimize creases and ensure that your garments have a neater appearance once dried. This will reduce the need for ironing or steaming afterward.

Utilize Hangers and Clothespins

Maintain the shape of blouses, shirts, and lightweight garments with hangers or clothespins. Hang shirts by the shoulders to prevent stretching and allow proper airflow. Use clothespins to secure the edges of delicates, pants, and skirts.

Space Garments Out

Give your pieces enough space to dry without touching or overlapping by spacing them out. This also helps air to circulate freely around each garment and speeds up the drying process, preventing mildew and musty odors. Avoid overcrowding the drying space, especially if you live in a humid environment.

Flip and Rotate

While drying, you should flip and rotate your garments periodically. This is especially important for thicker items like sweaters or towels as it helps to prevent moisture from getting trapped in specific areas. Alternate sides to facilitate quicker drying while maintaining the integrity of the fabric.

Consider the Time of Day

Plan your air-drying routine with the time of day. For optimal drying results, hang your clothes to dry on sunny and breezy days. To avoid fading colors, air dry your clothing in a shaded area or indoors. Be mindful that high humidity can prolong the drying time of your clothing.

Remember that, unlike a dryer, air drying takes several hours and may require drying overnight for completely dried garments. Plan your laundry schedule to avoid last-minute situations. With this method, your garments will maintain their shape and last longer with the added benefit of being eco-friendly.