You’re not alone if you’ve ever dashed home in a panic to rescue your washing from a sudden downpour. For many Australians—especially the nearly half who don’t own a tumble dryer—winter laundry can feel like a never-ending battle against the elements.
While summer’s sun makes line drying a breeze, the colder months bring a whole new set of challenges: damp clothes, musty smells, and a house that starts to resemble a laundromat.
But don’t despair! With a few clever tricks and some know-how, you can keep your clothes fresh, dry, and free from that dreaded musty odour—all without a dryer. Here’s your ultimate guide to winter laundry success.
Let’s start with the science. That unpleasant, musty smell isn’t just a minor annoyance—it’s a sign that bacteria and mildew have made their home in your damp fabrics.
According to Susan Toft, founder of The Laundry Lady, ‘That musty smell happens when clothes take too long to dry, allowing bacteria and mildew to develop in the damp fabric. The key is maximising airflow and reducing drying time.’
So, here are her top tips for drying clothes indoors.
1. Act fast
Don’t let your washing sit in the machine. As soon as the cycle finishes, get those clothes out! This helps prevent mustiness and reduces creasing, making ironing easier later on.
2. Shake it out
Give each item a good shake before hanging. This separates the fibres, allowing air to circulate more freely and speeding up the drying process.
3. Space it out
Resist the urge to cram everything onto the rack. Make sure clothes aren’t touching each other—airflow is your best friend here. As lighter items (like gym gear or t-shirts) dry, remove them to make more space for heavier pieces like jeans and jumpers.
4. Choose the right spot
Set up your drying rack in your home’s driest, most ventilated part. Avoid bathrooms or other humid areas. If you have a room with a heater, that’s even better!
And if you’ve got an air conditioner with a ‘dehumidify’ setting, now’s the time to use it. A pedestal fan directed at your rack can also work wonders.
Special strategies for towels and sheets
Towels and sheets are notorious for taking forever to dry. Here’s how to speed things up:
- Extra spin: To remove as much water as possible, give towels an additional spin cycle in the washing machine.
- Fluff and hang: Shake towels vigorously before hanging to fluff up the fibres and prevent them from drying stiff.
- Ironing hack: For sheets, try covering the damp fabric with a thin towel and pressing with a medium-hot iron. This removes excess moisture and cuts down on air-drying time.
Get creative with your space
You don’t need to spend a fortune on fancy gadgets. Temporary washing lines can be strung up in hallways, garages, or any room with decent airflow. Think vertically—use doors, shower rails, or even the backs of chairs to maximise your drying space.
If drying outside, consider investing in a cover for your washing line. These keep the rain off in winter and provide shade in summer, protecting your clothes year-round.
Electric heated drying racks are a game-changer if you’re ready to invest a little. For example, the $69 model from Bunnings has won rave reviews for its adjustable temperature and timer settings.
It’s perfect for small loads, sheets, or anyone looking for a budget-friendly alternative to a tumble dryer.
Here’s a cheat sheet on how you can say goodbye to damp clothes this winter season:
And sometimes, the laundry pile gets too high. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember there’s no shame in calling in the professionals.
How do you tackle the winter laundry blues? Have you discovered a genius drying hack or swear by a particular product? Share your tips and stories in the comments below.
Also read: Kmart’s $15 winter dupe becomes a cold-season sensation—will it last?
