7 Benefits of Hanging Clothes Outside to Dry
During the warmer summer months, using a tumble dryer to dry your clothes may seem illogical. Why waste money and generate needless heat (did you know that dryers can account for up to 12% of your household consumption?) when you have a free alternative at your disposal? That's right - we want to discuss the advantages of hang-drying your clothes. Even if you don't have a garden or a washing line, you can still hang-dry your clothes in a way that utilizes the fresh outdoor air. Place your indoor drying rack outside, on the balcony, or near an open window. If you're wondering why you should go to the trouble, here are a few reasons to consider. We should also note that some municipalities prohibit clotheslines, so it's important to check beforehand!
1. Promotes freshness and helps remove odors
There's no denying the refreshing quality of fresh air. Clothes that are dried outside on a line have a noticeably fresher scent compared to those that have been dried in a machine. Dryer sheets and fabric softeners, which are still chemical-based, are often added to the dryer to enhance the scent, but opting for a natural alternative can be a better choice. This is especially beneficial for individuals who are sensitive to fragrances and perfumes. By choosing to dry clothes outside, you can avoid exposure to these chemicals and enjoy the natural scent of fresh air.
2. Gentle on Clothing
Using a dryer to dry your clothes can be risky as it may damage your garments in multiple ways. Clothes can get snagged, leading to torn seams and zippers. Additionally, the high heat can cause irreversible harm to the fabric, leaving your favorite sweater in shreds. Apart from knitwear and other delicate fabrics that require flat drying, the clothesline is a safer option. It eliminates the risk of snagging and minimizes the heat exposure, keeping your clothes in excellent condition.
3. Helps to Prevent Fires
Tumble dryer fires are a genuine hazard that should not be ignored. On average, Vancouver experiences around 18 such incidents per year, while Toronto witnesses 39. These fires can occur suddenly and cause significant damage, making it crucial to take precautions and avoid using the dryer whenever possible.
4. Increases Physical Activity
It's fascinating to learn that hanging laundry on the line for as little as 15 minutes can burn approximately 68 calories. Of course, this doesn't mean you should replace your regular gym routine with hanging clothes, but it's a small yet welcome contribution towards your daily physical activity.
5. Helps relieve stress
Spending some time outside can work wonders in reducing our stress levels. Even if it's just a few moments spent hanging your clothes, it can provide a valuable break that allows you to soak in the fresh air, bask in the warmth of the sun, and listen to the sweet melody of birds chirping. If you find yourself struggling to take out time for meditation or relaxation, doing laundry could be the perfect chance to pause and rejuvenate.
6. Saves Money
While we've already touched upon this point, it's worth reiterating its importance. With the ever-increasing cost of living, any opportunity to save a few bucks is worth considering. Opting to air dry your clothes not only benefits the environment but also helps you save money by cutting down energy usage by up to 12%. Considering that the dryer is one of the most energy-consuming household appliances, this reduction is significant and can lead to noticeable savings over time.
7. Promotes energy conservation
Given the high energy requirements of dryers, even a small reduction in usage can make a significant difference in lowering personal fossil fuel consumption. If we all make such changes together, it can lead to a substantial reduction in the nation's carbon footprint. It's essential to take initiative and play our part in protecting the environment. Considering these points, it's worth contemplating whether you will be using a clothesline to dry your clothes this summer. It's a small but impactful step towards a more sustainable lifestyle.