How to air dry clothes to save money - Reviewed - USA Today

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If your family is anything like mine, you do a lot of laundry. Our family of four does upwards of six loads a week—sometimes more. While having a dryer is convenient and fast, each load uses a fair amount of energy (and you may already be feeling the pinch on your latest billing statement). If you’re looking for ways to save money, one option to consider looking into is how to air dry clothes.

While a dryer certainly has its benefits, learning how to air dry clothes at home—indoors or out—may help lower the cost of your energy bill.

We spoke to several experts to find out if you can save money by air drying your clothes. Here’s what they had to say.

How much does a dryer cost to use?

Credit: Reviewed / Kyle Hamilton

An Energy Star certified dryer like the Maytag MED7230HW (pictured) can help cut down on laundry costs.

Dryers typically range from 24 to 72 cents per load, depending on the size and whether it's electric or gas-powered.

That doesn’t include the up-front cost of the appliance or any maintenance and repairs that might be required which, Phi Dang, director of home services company Sidepost, says should absolutely be factored into the cost consideration.

These energy and maintenance costs add up to hundreds of dollars per year for many families. If you have to use a coin-operated machine either at a laundromat or in your apartment complex, then that cost will be even higher.

If air drying your clothes is not an option, make sure to purchase an Energy Star-certified dryer. Appliances with this certification use less energy than their non-certified counterparts.

To keep your dryer working efficiently, make sure to clean to clean the vent and lint trap regularly. Additionally, drying similarly-weighted fabrics together and drying loads back-to-back (to make use of the residual heat) can help cut back on operating costs.

However, there is only so much optimization that can happen—using any appliance will cost money.

What to know about how to air dry clothes

The pros

Credit: Getty Images / Ildar Abulkhanov

Laundry clothes racks and clothes pins can help you quickly dry your things outdoors.

Air and sunlight are free, and any time you don’t have to turn on the dryer, you save some money. But the benefits are much more than just cost savings. Air drying can be “gentler on your clothes and may help them last longer [than using a dryer],” Dang shares.

This is why clothing made from delicate fabrics is typically recommended to air dry. However, the high heat and tumbling from a dryer does damage even sturdier fabrics. In theory, the more wet laundry you hang out to dry, the less damage all of your clothing will take.

In addition to the pure monetary savings that come from air drying, you’ll also be reducing your carbon footprint. Even kilowatt-hour of electricity or therm of natural gas that you use is more energy generated and more carbon poured into the atmosphere.

The cons

Credit: Getty Imgaes / Remedios

A clothes line can help you air dry laundry outdoors but it takes up a lot of space.

The biggest drawback of air drying your clothes is the amount of time that it takes. Rather than simply tossing clothes into the dryer and hitting power, air drying requires carrying them outside and hanging them up individually.

You have to wait hours for them to be dry, with no way to speed up the process. Air drying is not a viable option for anyone who needs their favorite shirt to be ready to wear in an hour.

Air drying also takes up a lot of space. For many people, particularly those who live in apartments or homes with no yard, this is a deal breaker. While there are drying racks, where you can hang your clothes inside, these are not usually meant as replacements for dryers, but merely supplements for delicate clothes.

These space requirements also limit the amount of laundry that you can effectively do at one time. Depending on your setup, air drying may only allow you to finish one or two loads of laundry every day or two.

Finally, and this is a big one, drying your clothes outside subjects them to nature. Sometimes that’s part of the appeal, as the wind and sun are integral to drying.

However, nature also includes bugs, pine needles, pollen, rain, snow, and mud. There’s always the chance of any of these either preventing your clothes from drying or getting them dirty again.

In climates with cold weather, there will be significant portions of the year when drying clothes outside simply isn’t possible, so you need an indoor solution as a backup regardless.

Tips for how to air dry clothes

Credit: Reviewed

Make sure to allow plenty of space between wet items. If they are too close together, they won’t get enough airflow to wick away the moisture, leading to longer dry times.

If you’re drying outside, then chances are there is plenty of ventilation, but when drying inside, keep the air around the clothes moving. Turn on a fan or open the windows to increase airflow.

Poor ventilation in the drying areadrying area can result in excess moisture in the air, which can lead to mildew. Some people may want to even run a dehumidifier to cut down on this issue.

Air drying clothes is often weather dependent, and takes a long time even on warm, sunny, summer days. Keep an eye on the weather and when you’re going to need outfits, towels, or sheets. Nothing is going to make you quit air drying faster than never having the right outfit when you need it.

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So, can you save money by air drying your clothes?

Credit: Getty Images / SolStock

When it comes to costs, air drying is one the cheapest way to get the job done.

Yes, air drying will always be the cheapest option. Unfortunately, it's not for everyone, as you need the time and space to make it work well. If a dryer is your only option, you can still keep costs down.

Heat-pump models are the most energy-efficient but dry slowly and cost more up-front than vented dryers. If you need the speed and lower purchase price of a standard vented dryer, all is not lost, you can keep running costs low with an energy-efficient model.

Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, or Flipboard for the latest deals, product reviews, and more.

Next to heating and cooling, the most energy used in the home is from heating water, followed by using appliances. On average, washers and dryers account for about 5 percent of a household's annual electricity usage, according to Perch Energy. And your individual laundry habits can either cause you to spend more money than necessary or help you save electricity and water.

So, we spoke to experts to find out which laundry day habits could be eating away at our finances. Keep reading to learn how you can save money (and energy) on your laundry cycles.

Choreograph/Getty Images

Avoid spur-of-the-moment laundering

If you hate the sight of dirty laundry, you may start a cycle every time you accumulate a few dirty items. But, according to David Steckel, home expert at Thumbtack, there’s a risk of over-running your machine. “When possible, always wait until there’s a full load that needs washing so as not to double down on cycles,” he says. Spontaneous washing and drying wastes electricity and water, but that’s not all. Over time, you can also prematurely wear out your appliances.

Travis Sewell, field consultant and licensed plumber from Bluefrog Plumbing and Drain in Dallas, Texas, agrees that you can save money by washing larger loads. “This approach not only reduces the frequency of washing, but also maximizes the capacity of the washing machine, which is more efficient," he says. The less often you wash clothes, the more efficient your laundry routine will be, he explains. “Plus, washing larger loads can help ensure that you make the most of your washer's capacity," Sewell adds.

Depending on your type of washing machine, Thomas Dougherty, VP of operations at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, tells us it’s going to use roughly 14-20 gallons of water every cycle, regardless of how many clothes you pull in it. “To get the most out of your washing machine’s usage, make sure you put as many clothes in as possible—but don’t stuff it to the brim.” If the washer is packed too tightly, the laundry can’t move around, so it won’t get thoroughly cleaned. For especially small loads that just can't wait, consider using a portable washing machine instead.

Pay attention to your water settings

Out of habit, you may select the same settings for every load of laundry, but this practice could be costing you money. “You should always change the water level setting on the washing machine to [match] the appropriate load size,” Dougherty says. He says this simple daily habit can lower your water usage and costs.

Choose the right wash cycle

Another way to save money is to ensure that you’re using the right cycle for the load that you’re cleaning. “Sometimes all you need is a quick express rinse rather than a full cycle, so when possible, adjust your settings accordingly and you will end up saving lots of water,” Steckel says. And he recommends that you avoid using those “bulky” or heavy duty settings, since they use a lot of water. “A load of towels will still get a proper wash without needing to bump up the setting and use additional water,” he explains.

Nelly Martinez, Whirlpool senior brand manager, agrees, and tells us, “Some washers also offer a “quick wash” cycle where you can get small, lightly-soiled loads clean in 15 to 40 minutes while using less water and energy than longer cycles.” But with larger loads, Martinez says you will need more water to saturate the clothes and perform an effective wash. 

Use less detergent

Using more detergent doesn’t necessarily result in cleaner laundry. In fact, Martinez says using less detergent can help save money in the long run. “Not only will you purchase detergent less frequently, but using too much detergent can cause longer cycle times with greater water usage—and even damage clothing.” Some washing machines have a "Load and Go" dispenser that automatically dispenses the right amount of detergent for each load, which can help you use detergent and water more efficiently.

Launder during non-peak hours

During peak hours (when electricity consumption is highest) you may pay more for using electricity in some states and with some power companies. (For example, Alabama Power considers Monday-Friday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. to be peak hours from June 1 through September 30. From November 1 to March 31, peak hours are Monday-Friday from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m.) “The easiest way to save money while doing laundry is to run your washer and dryer during non-peak hours,” advises Steckel.  “Ask your utility company when electricity use is lower, and then consider doing your laundry during these off-peak time frames.”

Use cold water

One myth that can cause you to spend more on laundry: believing you have to use hot water all of the time. “Washing clothes in cold water can be a simple yet effective way to save money while doing laundry,” Sewell says.  That’s because hot water uses more energy. “By opting to use cold water instead, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption and, ultimately, lower your utility bill,” Sewell adds.

And even if you’re not prepared to do complete cold-water cycles, Steckel says there’s still a way for you to save money. “I recommend opting for a cold rinse when washing clothes," he explains. "It might seem small and insignificant, but can eventually add up.”

Don’t wash clothes excessively

Washing dirty laundry is obviously important, but Martinez says knowing how often to wash items, can help you use laundry appliances more efficiently. “For example, jeans, sweaters, jackets, and sleepwear can be worn several times before needing to be washed,” she tells us. “Also, if your dryer has a steam cycle option, you can skip a load of laundry and quickly refresh clothing using this function instead.”

Turn off supply hoses

Washing machine leaks can put a hole in your wallet. So, after you finish using the washing machine, Dougherty recommends turning off the supply hoses to avoid leaks. “You may also consider upgrading to auto shut-off connector hoses, which can sense excess water and automatically shut off.” In addition to those small leaks, he says this feature can also come in handy to prevent actual flooding in your laundry room or basement.

Air dry laundry

Once upon a time, air drying laundry was a way of life—and Sewell recommends reviving this practice as a way to save money on laundry by reducing energy consumption. There’s another advantage to air drying your washed items, too: It can keep your clothes in good condition. “Fabrics can shrink or become damaged in the dryer, but air drying naturally helps preserve them, whether you’re hanging clothes outside or on a drying rack,” Sewell says.

Martinez agrees, saying, “If you have the time and the space, or if you run a smaller laundry load than usual, try hanging clothes to dry instead of using the dryer.”

 Conduct routine maintenance

After you finish cleaning your clothes and bedding, don’t forget to tend to your cleaning appliances. “Cleaning your lint filter before every load is essential for dryer efficiency,” says Sewell. “A dirty lint filter can cause your dryer to function less efficiently, which results in higher energy usage and a longer drying time.” For best results, he recommends cleaning the lint filter before every load.

You should also routinely clean your washing machine. “There are washer cleaning tablets that can be used to clean the unit,” Steckel says. “This will remove any mildew smells, and help remove grime residues that build up and make you want to wash multiple times.” Also, leave the washing machine door open after cycles to help it dry out. Steckel says this will prolong the replacement time of your gaskets—and it also helps to avoid mildew and odors.

Upgrade to a new washing machine

Depending on the type and age of your existing laundry appliances, you can save money by replacing them. “New high-efficiency (HE) washers use about 25 percent less energy and 33 percent less water than regular washers,” Martinez says. And she notes that front-load high-efficiency washing machines are the most water-efficient option.

Also, Sarah Armstrong, new product brand manager, Maytag Brand, recommends Energy Star® certified appliances. “An Energy Star washer can reduce water usage by around 6 gallons per load, which can result in savings of more than 2,000 gallons of water every year,” Armstrong says. In addition, she says these appliances remove more water during the final spin cycles, leaving clothes less wet and allowing dryers to use less heat.

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If your family is anything like mine, you do a lot of laundry. Our family of four does upwards of six loads a week—sometimes more. While having a dryer is convenient and fast, each load uses a fair amount of energy (and you may already be feeling the pinch on your latest billing statement). If you’re looking for ways to save money, one option to consider looking into is how to air dry clothes.

While a dryer certainly has its benefits, learning how to air dry clothes at home—indoors or out—may help lower the cost of your energy bill.

We spoke to several experts to find out if you can save money by air drying your clothes. Here’s what they had to say.

How much does a dryer cost to use?

Credit: Reviewed / Kyle Hamilton

An Energy Star certified dryer like the Maytag MED7230HW (pictured) can help cut down on laundry costs.

Dryers typically range from 24 to 72 cents per load, depending on the size and whether it's electric or gas-powered.

That doesn’t include the up-front cost of the appliance or any maintenance and repairs that might be required which, Phi Dang, director of home services company Sidepost, says should absolutely be factored into the cost consideration.

These energy and maintenance costs add up to hundreds of dollars per year for many families. If you have to use a coin-operated machine either at a laundromat or in your apartment complex, then that cost will be even higher.

If air drying your clothes is not an option, make sure to purchase an Energy Star-certified dryer. Appliances with this certification use less energy than their non-certified counterparts.

To keep your dryer working efficiently, make sure to clean to clean the vent and lint trap regularly. Additionally, drying similarly-weighted fabrics together and drying loads back-to-back (to make use of the residual heat) can help cut back on operating costs.

However, there is only so much optimization that can happen—using any appliance will cost money.

What to know about how to air dry clothes

The pros

Credit: Getty Images / Ildar Abulkhanov

Laundry clothes racks and clothes pins can help you quickly dry your things outdoors.

Air and sunlight are free, and any time you don’t have to turn on the dryer, you save some money. But the benefits are much more than just cost savings. Air drying can be “gentler on your clothes and may help them last longer [than using a dryer],” Dang shares.

This is why clothing made from delicate fabrics is typically recommended to air dry. However, the high heat and tumbling from a dryer does damage even sturdier fabrics. In theory, the more wet laundry you hang out to dry, the less damage all of your clothing will take.

In addition to the pure monetary savings that come from air drying, you’ll also be reducing your carbon footprint. Even kilowatt-hour of electricity or therm of natural gas that you use is more energy generated and more carbon poured into the atmosphere.

The cons

Credit: Getty Imgaes / Remedios

A clothes line can help you air dry laundry outdoors but it takes up a lot of space.

The biggest drawback of air drying your clothes is the amount of time that it takes. Rather than simply tossing clothes into the dryer and hitting power, air drying requires carrying them outside and hanging them up individually.

You have to wait hours for them to be dry, with no way to speed up the process. Air drying is not a viable option for anyone who needs their favorite shirt to be ready to wear in an hour.

Air drying also takes up a lot of space. For many people, particularly those who live in apartments or homes with no yard, this is a deal breaker. While there are drying racks, where you can hang your clothes inside, these are not usually meant as replacements for dryers, but merely supplements for delicate clothes.

These space requirements also limit the amount of laundry that you can effectively do at one time. Depending on your setup, air drying may only allow you to finish one or two loads of laundry every day or two.

Finally, and this is a big one, drying your clothes outside subjects them to nature. Sometimes that’s part of the appeal, as the wind and sun are integral to drying.

However, nature also includes bugs, pine needles, pollen, rain, snow, and mud. There’s always the chance of any of these either preventing your clothes from drying or getting them dirty again.

In climates with cold weather, there will be significant portions of the year when drying clothes outside simply isn’t possible, so you need an indoor solution as a backup regardless.

Tips for how to air dry clothes

Credit: Reviewed

Make sure to allow plenty of space between wet items. If they are too close together, they won’t get enough airflow to wick away the moisture, leading to longer dry times.

If you’re drying outside, then chances are there is plenty of ventilation, but when drying inside, keep the air around the clothes moving. Turn on a fan or open the windows to increase airflow.

Poor ventilation in the drying area can result in excess moisture in the air, which can lead to mildew. Some people may want to even run a dehumidifier to cut down on this issue.

Air drying clothes is often weather dependent, and takes a long time even on warm, sunny, summer days. Keep an eye on the weather and when you’re going to need outfits, towels, or sheets. Nothing is going to make you quit air drying faster than never having the right outfit when you need it.

Sign up for our newsletter.

Get the best deals and the best advice dropped right in your inbox.

Thanks for signing up.

You're all set to get the latest from Reviewed. Tell us a bit more about you so we can get to know each other better.

Thank You!

We added you to the list. We'll be in touch soon.

So, can you save money by air drying your clothes?

Credit: Getty Images / SolStock

When it comes to costs, air drying is one the cheapest way to get the job done.

Yes, air drying will always be the cheapest option. Unfortunately, it's not for everyone, as you need the time and space to make it work well. If a dryer is your only option, you can still keep costs down.

Heat-pump models are the most energy-efficient but dry slowly and cost more up-front than vented dryers. If you need the speed and lower purchase price of a standard vented dryer, all is not lost, you can keep running costs low with an energy-efficient model.

Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, or Flipboard for the latest deals, product reviews, and more.

Next to heating and cooling, the most energy used in the home is from heating water, followed by using appliances. On average, washers and dryers account for about 5 percent of a household's annual electricity usage, according to Perch Energy. And your individual laundry habits can either cause you to spend more money than necessary or help you save electricity and water.

So, we spoke to experts to find out which laundry day habits could be eating away at our finances. Keep reading to learn how you can save money (and energy) on your laundry cycles.

Choreograph/Getty Images

Avoid spur-of-the-moment laundering

If you hate the sight of dirty laundry, you may start a cycle every time you accumulate a few dirty items. But, according to David Steckel, home expert at Thumbtack, there’s a risk of over-running your machine. “When possible, always wait until there’s a full load that needs washing so as not to double down on cycles,” he says. Spontaneous washing and drying wastes electricity and water, but that’s not all. Over time, you can also prematurely wear out your appliances.

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Travis Sewell, field consultant and licensed plumber from Bluefrog Plumbing and Drain in Dallas, Texas, agrees that you can save money by washing larger loads. “This approach not only reduces the frequency of washing, but also maximizes the capacity of the washing machine, which is more efficient," he says. The less often you wash clothes, the more efficient your laundry routine will be, he explains. “Plus, washing larger loads can help ensure that you make the most of your washer's capacity," Sewell adds.

Depending on your type of washing machine, Thomas Dougherty, VP of operations at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, tells us it’s going to use roughly 14-20 gallons of water every cycle, regardless of how many clothes you pull in it. “To get the most out of your washing machine’s usage, make sure you put as many clothes in as possible—but don’t stuff it to the brim.” If the washer is packed too tightly, the laundry can’t move around, so it won’t get thoroughly cleaned. For especially small loads that just can't wait, consider using a portable washing machine instead.

Pay attention to your water settings

Out of habit, you may select the same settings for every load of laundry, but this practice could be costing you money. “You should always change the water level setting on the washing machine to [match] the appropriate load size,” Dougherty says. He says this simple daily habit can lower your water usage and costs.

Choose the right wash cycle

Another way to save money is to ensure that you’re using the right cycle for the load that you’re cleaning. “Sometimes all you need is a quick express rinse rather than a full cycle, so when possible, adjust your settings accordingly and you will end up saving lots of water,” Steckel says. And he recommends that you avoid using those “bulky” or heavy duty settings, since they use a lot of water. “A load of towels will still get a proper wash without needing to bump up the setting and use additional water,” he explains.

Nelly Martinez, Whirlpool senior brand manager, agrees, and tells us, “Some washers also offer a “quick wash” cycle where you can get small, lightly-soiled loads clean in 15 to 40 minutes while using less water and energy than longer cycles.” But with larger loads, Martinez says you will need more water to saturate the clothes and perform an effective wash. 

Use less detergent

Using more detergent doesn’t necessarily result in cleaner laundry. In fact, Martinez says using less detergent can help save money in the long run. “Not only will you purchase detergent less frequently, but using too much detergent can cause longer cycle times with greater water usage—and even damage clothing.” Some washing machines have a "Load and Go" dispenser that automatically dispenses the right amount of detergent for each load, which can help you use detergent and water more efficiently.

Launder during non-peak hours

During peak hours (when electricity consumption is highest) you may pay more for using electricity in some states and with some power companies. (For example, Alabama Power considers Monday-Friday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. to be peak hours from June 1 through September 30. From November 1 to March 31, peak hours are Monday-Friday from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m.) “The easiest way to save money while doing laundry is to run your washer and dryer during non-peak hours,” advises Steckel.  “Ask your utility company when electricity use is lower, and then consider doing your laundry during these off-peak time frames.”

Use cold water

One myth that can cause you to spend more on laundry: believing you have to use hot water all of the time. “Washing clothes in cold water can be a simple yet effective way to save money while doing laundry,” Sewell says.  That’s because hot water uses more energy. “By opting to use cold water instead, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption and, ultimately, lower your utility bill,” Sewell adds.

And even if you’re not prepared to do complete cold-water cycles, Steckel says there’s still a way for you to save money. “I recommend opting for a cold rinse when washing clothes," he explains. "It might seem small and insignificant, but can eventually add up.”

Don’t wash clothes excessively

Washing dirty laundry is obviously important, but Martinez says knowing how often to wash items, can help you use laundry appliances more efficiently. “For example, jeans, sweaters, jackets, and sleepwear can be worn several times before needing to be washed,” she tells us. “Also, if your dryer has a steam cycle option, you can skip a load of laundry and quickly refresh clothing using this function instead.”

Turn off supply hoses

Washing machine leaks can put a hole in your wallet. So, after you finish using the washing machine, Dougherty recommends turning off the supply hoses to avoid leaks. “You may also consider upgrading to auto shut-off connector hoses, which can sense excess water and automatically shut off.” In addition to those small leaks, he says this feature can also come in handy to prevent actual flooding in your laundry room or basement.

Air dry laundry

Once upon a time, air drying laundry was a way of life—and Sewell recommends reviving this practice as a way to save money on laundry by reducing energy consumption. There’s another advantage to air drying your washed items, too: It can keep your clothes in good condition. “Fabrics can shrink or become damaged in the dryer, but air drying naturally helps preserve them, whether you’re hanging clothes outside or on a drying rack,” Sewell says.

Martinez agrees, saying, “If you have the time and the space, or if you run a smaller laundry load than usual, try hanging clothes to dry instead of using the dryer.”

 Conduct routine maintenance

After you finish cleaning your clothes and bedding, don’t forget to tend to your cleaning appliances. “Cleaning your lint filter before every load is essential for dryer efficiency,” says Sewell. “A dirty lint filter can cause your dryer to function less efficiently, which results in higher energy usage and a longer drying time.” For best results, he recommends cleaning the lint filter before every load.

You should also routinely clean your washing machine. “There are washer cleaning tablets that can be used to clean the unit,” Steckel says. “This will remove any mildew smells, and help remove grime residues that build up and make you want to wash multiple times.” Also, leave the washing machine door open after cycles to help it dry out. Steckel says this will prolong the replacement time of your gaskets—and it also helps to avoid mildew and odors.

Upgrade to a new washing machine

Depending on the type and age of your existing laundry appliances, you can save money by replacing them. “New high-efficiency (HE) washers use about 25 percent less energy and 33 percent less water than regular washers,” Martinez says. And she notes that front-load high-efficiency washing machines are the most water-efficient option.

Also, Sarah Armstrong, new product brand manager, Maytag Brand, recommends Energy Star® certified appliances. “An Energy Star washer can reduce water usage by around 6 gallons per load, which can result in savings of more than 2,000 gallons of water every year,” Armstrong says. In addition, she says these appliances remove more water during the final spin cycles, leaving clothes less wet and allowing dryers to use less heat.

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