In the continuous quest for cost reduction and environmentally friendly solutions, using a dehumidifier for garment drying emerges as a profitable approach. Taking a step away from energy-consuming traditional dryers, dehumidifiers constitute a solution that minimises energy consumption and provides an optimal environment for garment preservation and air quality enhancement.
The best dehumidifiers tried and tested for dry wet clothes include the Pro Breeze 12L/Day Dehumidifier, EcoAir DD122 Desiccant Dehumidifier, Meaco 12L/Day Dehumidifier, DeLonghi Tasciug, and the Inventor EVA ION PRO Wi-Fi 20L Dehumidifier. These dehumidifiers offer varying features such as setting controls, power capabilities, and sizes catered to your specific needs, effectively contributing to an eco-friendly and pocket-friendly lifestyle.
Use a Dehumidifier for Drying Clothes instead of a Tumble Dryer
The use of a dehumidifier for drying garments is an eco-friendly and cost-efficient alternative to traditional dryers. Dehumidifiers work by reducing the moisture content in the air, which consequently quickens the evaporation process of the water in your clothing.
Moreover, the gradual and controlled drying process used by dehumidifiers helps safeguard delicate clothing items as they are less likely to shrink or become damaged due to intense heat exposure commonly encountered in clothes dryers.
In addition to contributing to the preservation of your clothing, dehumidifiers also help maintain the overall quality of your indoor air, ensuring a mould-free and healthier environment in your laundry area.
Further, operating a dehumidifier is highly energy efficient as it utilises less power compared to a traditional dryer. Therefore, substituting your tumble dryer with a dehumidifier not only mitigates the carbon emissions but significantly reduces your electricity bills.
Additionally, a dehumidifier has a greater capacity and flexibility since it is capable of drying several loads at once without the need to sort light and heavy garments. Lastly, unlike laundry dryers that can release a significant amount of heat, using dehumidifiers will not contribute to ensuring your home stays cool during the summer months. Hence, dehumidifiers present a more practical solution for drying garments with benefits that stretch beyond mere energy savings.
How to Dry Your Laundry Using a Dehumidifier
Employing a dehumidifier to dry your clothes is a peaceful process that will not only save energy but also preserve the integrity of your clothes.
- Wash your clothes as usual.
- Instead of using a traditional dryer, hang your clothes up to air-dry in an enclosed space where the dehumidifier is located.
- Spread out the clothes to allow air to circulate freely.
- Place the dehumidifier at a safe distance from the clothes.
- Turn on your dehumidifier. Most of them have setting controls which allow you to set your desired level of humidity, ideally between 30-50%.
- Let the dehumidifier run continuously until the clothes are dry.
- Regularly empty the dehumidifier’s water collection bucket to ensure it operates efficiently.
- Enjoy the benefits of your energy-efficient and cloth-friendly drying process.
How Long Does It Take a Dehumidifier to Dry Clothes
The length of time it takes for this device to dry garments largely depends on several factors including the power of the dehumidifier being used, the relative humidity in the room, the temperature, and the type of clothing material.
Typically, a dehumidifier can dry a typical load of laundry in about 2 to 4 hours. However, denser materials such as jeans and heavy cotton items can take longer, anywhere from 4 to 6 hours. It’s important to note that the process is much slower compared to a traditional dryer, but it’s more energy-efficient and gentle on fabrics.
Furthermore, weather conditions, particularly during colder and more humid days, might also affect the drying period. Hence, the dehumidifier may need a longer time to effectively draw out moisture from the atmosphere and aid in drying your items of clothing.
Remember, the primary function of a dehumidifier is to maintain an optimal humidity level in the room rather than to act as a speedy clothes dryer. But all in all, while operating a dehumidifier for laundry drying may take more time, it certainly offers distinctive advantages worth considering.
Drying Laundry with a Dehumidifier: Is it an Energy Efficient Method?
Yes, it is indeed energy-efficient to dry clothing with a dehumidifier. Traditional tumble dryers use substantial energy to generate heat and turn the drum that tumbles the clothes. Dehumidifiers, on the other hand, work on a different principle by extracting moisture from the air which not only uses less energy but creates an optimal climate for air-drying clothes.
This makes it a much more economical method over time, which becomes apparent when you look at your reduced electricity bills. Plus, dehumidifiers offer the added advantage of improving the environment in your home by preventing dampness and the growth of mould.
So utilising this moisture-removing appliance to dry your clothes is not only an energy-smart choice but also a beneficial one for your home’s overall air quality.
Speaking in numbers a less power dryer uses 1800W which means after the UK price cap Jan 2024 you will have a consumption of £0.52 per hour, on the other hand, a 210W dehumidifier will consume you £0.06 per hour. It seems to be quite a big difference!
Best 6 Dehumidifiers For Drying Clothes
1 Pro Breeze 12L/Day Dehumidifier
This is a compressor dehumidifier that delivers fantastic product reviews for a good reason. It is an energy-efficient dehumidifier, helping you save on energy bills. You can use it to dry huge loads of laundry daily due to its ability to remove 12 litres daily.
You can also transfer this device between rooms because it has four wheels for easy portability. It covers 15 square metres of room space and has an airflow capacity of 80 CMPH, so you won’t need to worry about any extra moisture from drying laundry in one room.
The best thing about this 12L dehumidifier is its built-in humidity sensor, which allows you to set the desired humidity level between 30% and 80%. With a 24-hour timer, you can safely leave this appliance to perform its task and have freshly dried clothes in the morning.
Though it may be a small dehumidifier, the Pro Breeze Dehumidifier has a 1.8-litre water tank and a continuous drainage hose that makes it perfect for long-term use.
2 EcoAir DD122 Simple Desiccant Dehumidifier
If you’re searching for a simple, cost-effective way to reduce humidity in small rooms, the EcoAir DD122 Simple Desiccant Dehumidifier is a fantastic choice. Due to its modest size and low energy usage, it is an excellent option for small homes or apartments. Additionally, it has a straightforward, user-friendly control panel and operates reasonably quietly.
Cons include that it is not as powerful as bigger, more expensive dehumidifiers and might not be appropriate for damp or massive places. In conclusion, the EcoAir DD122 is a fantastic choice for anyone searching for a straightforward, affordable dehumidifier.
3 Meaco 12L/Day Low Energy Dehumidifier
For those seeking a solid and effective dehumidifier with dedicated laundry mode, the Meaco Dehumidifier is a fantastic choice. It has a sizable 12-litre water tank capacity, enabling prolonged use without often emptying it.
The sophisticated control system, which includes a laundry drying function and humidity sensors, enables accurate humidity management and air purifiers. In addition, it is an energy-efficient type of dehumidifier. The appliance’s several fan settings also provide more control over the drying cycle, and an auto-restart feature enables the device to restart after a power loss.
However, compared to other dehumidifiers in its class, it is more expensive, might not fit in a smaller location, and some users have complained that it can be fairly loud when operating. Despite these drawbacks, those who can afford it and require a robust dehumidifier for vast spaces will find it a fantastic value thanks to the sophisticated management system and energy efficiency.
4 DeLonghi Tasciug
If you want to regulate the humidity levels in your house, this smart dehumidifier is a fantastic choice. It is appropriate for larger rooms or spaces because of its substantial 16-litre water tank and rapid extraction rate.
The digital display and straightforward controls make it simple to use and maintain, and the built-in humidistat enables you to adjust and maintain the correct degree of humidity. However, some users have expressed concerns about the unit’s noise level, which could be a problem for people who like a quiet function. Specific buyers have also mentioned the unit’s weight and mobility as complaints.
The DeLonghi Tasciugo Multi 16L Dehumidifier is a strong and effective option for controlling humidity grades. Still, it might not be an essential choice for individuals seeking a portable or silent operation.
5 Inventor EVA ION PRO Wi-Fi 20L Dehumidifier
EVA ION PRO Wi-Fi 20L premium dehumidifier with special laundry mode. It is usually used in big rooms or areas due to its 20-litre water tank and high extraction rate, and its built-in humidistat lets you select and maintain the humidity level you choose.
The gadget can be easily turned on when you’re about to start drying your laundry and off when you’re finished, ensuring that the air is not overly humid. The Wi-Fi connectivity option enables you to control the device remotely using your smartphone or tablet.
This dehumidifier’s built-in air ioniser, which helps to purify the air by removing allergies and pollutants, is one of its main advantages. Due to its ability to lessen the quantity of dust, mould, and germs in the air, it is a fantastic alternative for those who suffer from allergies or respiratory conditions.
The digital display and straightforward controls make it effortless to use and maintain. The Wi-Fi networking feature lets you check on and change the dehumidifier’s settings from virtually anywhere.
The Inventor EVA ION PRO Wi-Fi 20L Dehumidifier is a robust and feature-rich dehumidifier that can manage a lot of moist air, effectively dry clothing, and purify the air. It’s important to note that some users have voiced concerns about the unit’s noise level, which could be a problem for individuals who like a silent function. The unit’s weight and mobility have also been mentioned as complaints by certain users.
6 NETTA 12L/Day Low Energy Dehumidifier
When looking for a dehumidifier that will dry washing clothes fast and effectively, choose the NETTA 12L/Day Low Energy Dehumidifier. With the amount of humidity that this product extracts from the air, your clothes will smell fresher than ever because of the precise elimination of odours. It also has a specific laundry mode for drying clothing, so the dehumidifying capacity is directed towards your wet laundry.
You won’t need to empty it as frequently, thanks to the 2.5-litre water tank. Additionally, it uses little energy, so running won’t cost you anything. It’s straightforward to use, and navigating the controls is effortless. It’s not the most portable device, and it can be a little noisy. Overall, it’s a cost-effective solution that works.
