A decluttering expert shared a ‘secret’ laundry hack which could help you dry your clothes faster
Getting laundry dry during winter months can feel like an endless chore. But one woman’s clever trick could have your washing ready to wear much quicker than you might imagine.
Nicola Lewis, an expert in decluttering, organising, and packing, regularly shares useful tips on her Instagram @thisgirlcanorganise, which has over 200,000 followers. In an Instagram reel, she revealed a ‘secret’ feature on washing machines that could speed up the drying process, even when hanging clothes inside.
Though straightforward, Nicola recommends changing the machine’s setting to ‘Drum/Spin’ and recommends attempting a ‘Double Spin for the Win’. Spin cycles don’t introduce additional water to clothing, but whirl them at high speed to extract moisture. The faster the RPM – revolutions per minute – the more water will be removed from your garments.
The caption of Nicola’s reel from 2023 read: “Double spin your laundry! Your clothes will come out much drier, allowing them to dry quicker. Always give your clothes a quick shake before hanging to dry to remove any creases.”
Her video also detailed the subsequent stages for indoor drying, including deploying a clothes horse alongside a dehumidifier. This appliance works by extracting surplus humidity from the atmosphere.
Using a dehumidifier is also recommended by Mark Walker, a laundry expert at Denver Wash and Fold, who recently told The Express that it can help prevent mould and mildew.
He told the publication: “Banish mould and mildew for good by introducing a dehumidifier into your winter drying routine. Not only will it remove moisture from your clothes faster, it’ll also make your home into a healthier environment. Place the device nearby and watch the tank fill up while you enjoy a well-deserved hot cocoa.”
Nonetheless, he added: “If you’re looking for a more economical alternative to tumble drying, then an extra spin cycle might be the answer. On average, it takes less energy to spin water out of the load than it does to heat it up and dry it, so go ahead and extract some extra moisture at the end of a wash.”
Additionally, Nicola’s video suggested that a fan could boost the circulation of ‘cold air, helping your clothes to dry faster’ as well. She said that any desktop fan could be used, as this is ‘cheaper than putting the heating on’.
Nicola’s post received many comments after it was published, with numerous fans also sharing their own laundry habits. One person wrote: “We’ve just invested in a dehumidifier and it’s b***** amazing.”
Likewise, another added: “No more condensation on the windows and that battle with mould feels like a distant memory!”, as someone else said: “So glad you put this, just ordered that dehumidifier.”
For the latest money-saving tips, shopping and consumer news, go to the new Everything Money website
