When we are not fortunate enough to have a large garden to spread our wet laundry in the sun, we find ourselves forced to dry it on indoor racks that invade our living space. Moreover, this isn’t the only downside to this often unavoidable practice.
According to a study conducted by Scottish researchers and reported by Presse-santé, indoor laundry drying could also pose numerous health risks. By examining the washing habits of residents in a social housing complex in western Scotland, scientists noted that indoor drying presents environmental, economic, and health issues.
Why You Shouldn’t Dry Your Laundry Indoors?
Beyond the financial impact, it can foster mold, microbes, and mites in poorly ventilated spaces, potentially triggering respiratory issues like asthma. The risk intensifies with fabric softeners, which may release harmful chemicals into the air. Rethinking our drying habits is crucial for both health and sustainability.
How to Safely Air Out Your Clothes?
Ideally, if you have no choice but to dry your laundry indoors, you should place it in a well-ventilated room, whether by a window or a mechanical ventilation system that can be opened or activated to refresh the air. Preferably situate your laundry near a south-facing window; it will benefit from sunlight and natural warmth, which are more effective in combating bacteria growth.
Indoor drying increases energy use and heating costs, especially in winter when heaters are on full blast. This not only raises bills but also impacts the environment. Rethinking our habits is essential for a greener, more energy-efficient home.
This article first appeared on grazia.fr – Author: Luce Picat
