What type of clothes should you hang to dry?

Not every type of clothing responds well to machine drying. Items made of certain textiles or constructed in a particular way may do better if you hang them to dry– either indoors or (with extra care to avoid direct sun) outdoors.

Always check the label before throwing new clothing items in the washing machine or dryer. In addition to optimal care instructions, it should tell you what the garment is made of. The following textiles should be dried naturally for better longevity and to preserve the shape and fit of the garment.

Synthetics such as polyester or spandex

These textiles generally react poorly to heat. Machine drying can cause fibers to stretch and lose their shape. Underwear often incorporates these fabrics; exert caution when considering machine drying. At the very least, use a cool setting for delicates and a mesh bag for protection. If there’s doubt, let synthetic items of clothing dry naturally.

We’ve also covered special care for silks and how to keep clothes from shrinking.

Denim

Although denim is famous for its durability (it is the original hard work clothing), drying jeans and other denim items in a machine at high heat can shrink them, and wear out the fabric more quickly. They do well hung on a line to dry, indoors or outdoors. If you are in a position to monitor clothes drying, start them in a machine on a cooler setting and then allow the damp garments to dry completely on a clothesline or drying rack.

Wool

Caution must also be exercised when machine washing and drying items made from pure wool as heat and water can cause them to shrink. Most clothing manufacturers suggest hand washing wool items and lying them flat to dry.

Protect your investment

With a little care, your clothes will last a long time. So be sure to check your labels before machine drying.  At Appliance Warehouse of America, we rent or lease state of the art washing machines and dryers that can help protect your investment.