How to quickly dry clothes to prevent odors

Washing clothes is an unavoidable routine, but drying them can take time, especially when the weather is unfavorable. To tackle this issue, there are several methods you can use to dry clothes more efficiently and prevent unpleasant odors.  

From using a washing machine with a drying feature, choosing the right hangers, to drying clothes in well-ventilated areas, these tips will help you. 
 

Why it’s important to know how to dry clothes quickly

Learning how to dry clothes quickly is essential for preserving the quality of your clothes, avoiding musty smells, and speeding up your laundry routine, especially during unfavorable weather or when you need clothes urgently.  

Moisture trapped in clothes can encourage mold growth and cause bad odors. By drying clothes effectively, you ensure they stay fresh and ready to wear on time. 

Also Read: How to organise the inside of your wardrobe in 5 easy steps
 

Factors that affect drying time

When it comes to drying clothes quickly, it's important to understand that several external factors can impact the speed of the drying process. Here’s a look at them! 
 

Humidity

Humidity plays a big role in the drying process. The higher the humidity in your environment, the slower the evaporation of water from clothing fibers. This is because humid air is already saturated with moisture, making it harder for it to absorb additional water from your clothes.  

Thus, during rainy or humid weather, clothes may take longer to dry, especially without the aid of wind or direct sunlight. 
 

Air circulation

In addition to humidity, air circulation is another crucial factor. Moving air helps speed up the evaporation of water from fabric. Without good air circulation, clothes can remain damp for longer.  

Therefore, it’s recommended to hang clothes in areas with good airflow, such as an open space exposed to the wind. Even indoors, using a fan can increase air circulation and speed up drying. 
 

Fabric thickness

Each fabric type has different characteristics when it comes to absorbing and releasing water. Thick fabrics like jeans or jackets take longer to dry than lightweight materials like cotton or linen. 

In urgent situations, choosing thinner fabrics can help reduce drying time. Additionally, drying thick clothes in areas with sufficient heat and wind will accelerate the process. 
 

Quick methods to dry clothes naturally

Although there are many modern tools to help clothes dry faster, natural methods remain a favorite for many people due to being energy-efficient and eco-friendly. Here are some natural methods to speed up drying without using machines: 
 

Hanging clothes in direct sunlight

Sunlight helps clothes dry faster. UV rays from the sun speed up water evaporation and also help kill bacteria or mold that can cause unpleasant odors. 

Also Read: The secrets of minimalist bathroom design
 

Providing extra airflow with a fan

If drying indoors, make sure there is enough airflow. Using a fan near the drying area accelerates the process by increasing the rate of water evaporation. 
 

Using proper wringing techniques

After washing clothes, wringing them out properly to remove as much water as possible is crucial. You can also use a dry towel to help absorb excess water from the clothing. Roll the clothes with the towel, then wring them for a more effective drying result before hanging them on a hanger. 
 

Quick drying methods using tools

For those with access to modern equipment, there are tools available that can help speed up the drying process, even when the weather isn’t cooperative. 
 

Using a dryer

A clothes dryer is a quick and practical solution. By using heat, it can dry clothes in a short amount of time, making it ideal when you need clothes immediately. 
 

Using a room heater

A room heater can help dry clothes indoors. Place the clothes near the heater to speed up the drying process, especially during humid or rainy weather. 
 

Ironing clothes to remove residual moisture

If clothes still feel damp after hanging, use a steam iron to evaporate the remaining moisture. This is a quick trick to ensure clothes are ready to wear immediately. 
 

Common drying mistakes to avoid

Though drying clothes seems simple, there are common mistakes that can actually slow down the process. Here are some things to avoid: 
 

Hanging clothes too close together

Hanging clothes too close to one another blocks air circulation. As a result, the drying process is slower because the air cannot flow properly between the garments. It’s best to leave enough space between each item of clothing to allow for better airflow. 
 

Using too much detergent

Excess detergent not only leaves residue on clothes but also makes them more damp after washing. This residue holds onto moisture longer, slowing down the drying process. Use the right amount of detergent and rinse clothes thoroughly to avoid residue that can hinder drying. 
 

Additional tips and tricks for faster drying

Beyond the methods mentioned, here are a few extra tricks to help speed up drying, especially when time is limited. 
 

Brushing fabric fibers with a special brush

For thick clothing like sweaters, brushing the fabric with a special brush can help open the fibers, allowing air to penetrate more easily and speeding up the drying process. 
 

Using baking soda to absorb moisture

Baking soda can help absorb excess moisture from clothes. This trick is especially useful for clothes that need quick drying, particularly in humid weather. 
 

Effective clothes drying

Drying clothes quickly can be achieved through a variety of methods discussed above. Combining natural methods like drying under direct sunlight or using a fan will yield the best results in speeding up the drying process. 

In addition, functional and high-quality laundry products from IKEA can also help accelerate the drying process. These products are ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, providing more efficient drying.  

To find various laundry and accessory products to better manage your clothes drying, visit IKEA’s laundry and accessory collection. IKEA offers practical solutions that make daily chores easier and more convenient.