The dryer is a thing of beauty. Especially during winter when it can take days for your clothes to dry on the line.
Watch: How to make your laundry work harder for you
But did you know there are some things you should never put in the dryer, no matter what!
You might like: Our top picks of the best dryers to take for a (gentle) spin
What you can’t put in your dryer
Here are seven things you should avoid putting in your dryer.
Misusing your dryer can not only damage the dryer but could even cause a house fire. Which is the last thing anymore needs or wants.
1. Anything with plastic or rubber on it
While this might seem like a no-brainer, it does happen. Plastic or rubber caught in the vents could lead to a fire—for example, lined rain jackets, rubbed-back bath mats or rugs. Just because something says it’s machine washable doesn’t mean it can go in the dryer. Always check the label.
2. Stuffed toys
Anything with stuffing or padding shouldn’t be put in the dryer. As well as stuffed toys that could include puffer jackets and sleeping bags.
4. Items with oil and chemical stains
Any clothes splashed with oil, or chemicals must be cleaned entirely before putting them in the dryer. It’s possible for the heat in the dryer to cause the oils in the fabric to combust. If you aren’t sure, skip the dryer and hang them on the line.
5. Metal studs or wire
As mentioned, the dryer can get very hot. So anything with metal studs or wire could become a problem. If they get loose, they could also damage your machine.
6. Pet Hair
If you think putting your clothes in the dryer is a quick way to get rid of excess pet hair, think again! Clogging up your filter with pet hair is asking for trouble. Get rid of as much pet hair as you can before washing and drying your clothes to reduce the build-up in your dryer.
7. Clothes that are soaking wet
Can you put soaking clothes in the dryer? A dryer is an outstanding appliance that saves you loads of drying time, but that doesn’t mean you should put sopping wet clothes in there. Run a rinse and spin cycle on your washing machine first. Or try to wring out as much water as you can by hand.
More washing tips
- If your clothes feel crunchy after washing them, there’s a perfect reason. You’re using too much detergent.
- If you don’t have a dryer and want to dry your clothes faster, pop an extra spin cycle on your washing machine, and your clothes will dry in half the time.
- Once your clothes are in the dryer, pop a dry towel or a dryer ball in to speed up drying times.
Which is the best dryer?
Unlike purchasing a humble clothes horse, a dryer is a purchase that comes with a higher price tag.
And with a higher price point, we need to ensure we’re putting our money into something that will last.
Here are our top picks of the best dryers to take for a (gentle) spin
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