Recent research shows that new dryers use significantly less energy to dry most typical loads on low heat than on high heat, even though the dryer runs longer. If you aren't in a rush, let the clothes run longer on low heat. This will save energy and is gentler on clothes.
Dryers are a bit like romantic relationships: A lower temperature for a longer time is more efficient than a hotter temperature for a shorter time, according to a study done for the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy.
It's cheapest to set your dryer to "Air Only", "Fluff" or "No Heat". It may not take much more time. Also: Clean your dryer's lint screen after every load. It's recommended to clean your dryer vent at least once a year.
Use low heat – You'll use less energy with a longer dry cycle at a lower heat setting than with a shorter cycle at a higher temperature.
- Use a low heat or delicate setting. High heat can cause shrinkage, especially for cotton and other natural fibers. - Choose the delicate or gentle cycle if your dryer has this option. This cycle uses lower temperatures and is more gentle on fabrics. - Avoid over-drying.
Gentle on Fabrics: The Delicate cycle is typically designed to be the most gentle option available, making it perfect for fragile items like silk, lace and cashmere.
Delicate or Gentle
On the other hand, delicate settings use the lowest amount of heat and tumbling action, explains Pozniak. This cycle is best for fragile fabrics or laundry pieces that may start to melt, fray, stretch, or fade in high-heat conditions.
“Tumble dry low” means to dry your item in the dryer on a low heat setting or Delicate cycle. Low heat is usually around 125 degrees Fahrenheit and is designed for delicate items like knitwear or sheer fabrics, as well as workout clothes made of high-performance fabric like spandex and lycra.
The Eco Dry setting doesn't use any water and dries clothes at lower temperatures, saving you some pennies and helping the environment at the same time – winner! Meanwhile, the Normal Dry programme shortens the whole cycle, which is great if you're in a rush.
As a result, here are our professional recommendations to dry your natural down insulated jacket: "Dry on low to no heat, this might take a few cycles, but high heat can damage the feathers or the fabric. To help restore the fluffiness of the down, add two or three clean tennis balls to your dryer.
All heat pump dryers meet the criteria for ENERGY STAR Most Efficient. A heat pump dryer works as a closed loop system by heating the air and using it to remove moisture from the clothes, then reusing that air once the moisture is removed.
According to the Spruce, the gentle cycle is best for materials like rayon or silk, permanent press is ideal for your everyday clothes, while the normal setting should be reserved for items like towels, sheets, and jeans.
Choosing the right drying cycle
The cotton cycle uses high heat and is perfect for towels, bedding, and sturdy cotton items. For polyester and mixed fabrics, use the synthetics cycle, which operates at medium heat. Delicate items benefit from the low heat of the delicates cycle.
When drying your clothes, you should use a low-medium heat setting on your dryer. It reduces the risk of shrinking and helps maintain the quality of your fabrics. If possible, consider line-drying your delicate items to avoid any heat damage.
As a general rule, higher temperatures are best used for heavy items, like towels, jeans and jackets. Low to medium heat settings are ideal for sheets, blouses and undergarments, while no-heat settings are designed for heat-sensitive fabrics or garments containing rubber or plastic.
As you might've guessed, the delicate (or gentle) cycle is for your most delicate items. This dryer setting uses the lowest heat and a longer time to dry items. “The lower heat is good for more delicate fabrics, like rayon and chiffon, or items with embellishments or embroidery,” says Wang.
Use Automatic Dry for best drying results. Use Timed Dry for the occasional damp load that needs more drying time.
Airers are generally cheaper to buy and run, but take longer, so for large loads, a tumble dryer may work out cheaper.
Regular/Heavy: Fastest and hottest setting of your dryer. It's best to use this setting when you're drying white or light-colored clothing. Delicates: Low heat, so drying time will be longer. It is best to use this setting to use for delicate fabrics.
Does putting a dry towel in the dryer help? If you are putting soaked clothes in the dryer, tossing in a towel with your load may help absorb moisture and can possibly help speed up drying times.