Spin first
Remove as much water as possible before clothes go on the rack.
UK damp and humidity guide
How to dry clothes indoors without causing mould
Drying clothes indoors is sometimes unavoidable in flats, rented homes, winter weather or homes without outdoor space. The trick is controlling where the moisture goes.
Indoor Clothes Drying
Keep air moving around the laundry
Spacing, airflow and moisture removal matter more than simply putting clothes near heat.
Leave gaps
Air needs to reach fabric on both sides.
Check corners
Look at windows, wardrobes and cold walls the next morning.
Choose the right room
Use the warmest, best-ventilated room you can. Avoid small bedrooms with cold external walls if possible.
If you must use a bedroom, keep furniture slightly away from walls and monitor humidity.
Spread clothes out
Packed clothes dry slowly and keep the room humid for longer. Spin clothes well before hanging and leave gaps between items.
Create gentle airflow
Airflow helps moisture leave fabric. Open a window briefly, use an extractor where available, or place the rack where air can move around it.
Use a dehumidifier correctly
Place the dehumidifier near the drying rack, but do not block the air intake or outlet with clothes.
Close the room door if safe and suitable so the unit is not trying to dry the whole house.
Measure humidity
A cheap humidity meter helps show whether laundry is causing a problem. If the room stays above 60–65% for long periods, improve ventilation or extraction.
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