How to Hang Dry Clothes: Inside & Outside

How to hang dry clothes? Yes, that’s even a question! Laundry day does not mean to deal with the guzzling dryers. Why not do it the old way? The practice of hanging clothes to dry is a kind way, to both your wallet and to mother earth.

Well, it depends from person to person—whether you are hanging clothes to dry for reducing carbon footprint, or to save money and to extend the life of your favorite clothes. And in some cases, to simply enjoy the freshness and scent of sun-kissed clothes. Whatever your reason is, it is totally up to your preference but hang drying is no less than an art.

Hanging clothes to dry is a simple act to a healthier and greener lifestyle. Yes, it comes with a number of environmental benefits; but it also preserves the life of top-quality shirts and fabrics.  If you are new to the concept of hanging clothes to dry; and you have no idea where to start—keep on reading.

In this blog, we will explore everything related to hanging clothes to dry. Not to worry, we will explain both indoor and outdoor approaches for your understanding. Let’s bask your clothes in the sun or give them a gentle warmth in an indoor space.

Let’s Hang your Clothes Outside!

First things first. Gather your supplies; prepare yourself for drying out the clothes in the sun.

You will needing:

• Drying rack, clothesline will work too.
• Pegs to hang the clothes.
• Hangers (This is much needed item)
• Stain remover just in case.

Step 1:

Choose a clean spot in your backyard, a place where the sunlights come directly for most of the day. Try to hang dry your clothes during day time; as in this way your clothes will dry faster and also prevent mildew growth.

Moreover, you have to be careful while hanging clothes to dry outside to be mindful about the sun timings; otherwise if there is no sun there is a chance that an odd smell will come out of your clothes.

Step 2:

Next is to set up your clothesline. Now it totally depends upon whether you want to traditionally hang your clothes or to use a drying rack. Both methods are good and work well. If you are using a traditional clothesline; make sure to use a wall mounted bracket or use a sturdy support. However, if you are using a drying rack; place it on a level surface.

Step 3:

Before washing and after washing, sort your laundry into groups. Yes, this is extremely important or otherwise your white clothes can take on the color of other fabrics.

Divide and rule—whites, colors and darks. This will minimize the risk of color bleeding and will also give you a peace of mind.

Step 4:

Now for the most important step, hanging your clothes securely. Take your clothing item from the bucket and give it a shake; this will remove wrinkles from the fabric.

Hang heavy items such as jeans, towels, bed sheets to the lower line. And undergarments and lighter items to the upper line. With the help of a clothespin or pegs secure the clothes; and pin the fabric from the hem to prevent stretching.

Tips and Tricks on How to Hang Dry Your Clothes Outside:

• Maintain spacing to allow the airflow. There should be some space between the two items.
• Rotate as the day progresses, in this way all the sides will get equal exposure to sun and air.
• Keep the towels unfolded and hang them to the vertical sides of the clothesline.
• Hang your jeans by the leg cuffs, the heaviest part i.e waist will get more airflow; and your pants will dry faster.

Let’s Hang your Clothes Inside!

To hang your clothes for drying inside; you will need the following:

• Drying rack or clothesline
• Clothespins/pegs/hangers

Step 1:

To hang dry your clothes inside, it is extremely important to choose the right room. You must have a well-ventilated room with proper windows. There should be airflows and fans to prevent mold and musty odors.

If your drying room is not well-ventilated; you will end up having a bad odor in your clothing items and you will have to redo it all over again.

Step 2:

How to hang dry clothes inside shouldn’t be your main focus; but your main focus should be about the location. Place your drying rack in a location where it won’t get disturbed by the foot traffic. Your drying rack or your clotheslines must get good air circulation.

Step 3:

Prepare your laundry for drying, sort it out like you would do in the outdoor setting. Divide it into groups: whites, darks and colored. Shake the clothing items to remove wrinkles, and use hangers if needed.

Tips and Tricks on How to Hang Dry Your Clothes Inside:

• The room should have good ventilation and low humidity.
• Circulate air to remove moisture.
• Turn on the fans for air circulation.
• You can use a chair or table to dry your clothes, spread them evenly over a chair.

Wrapping up:

Hanging clothes to dry is a sustainable and cost-effective way to care for your clothes and the environment. Whether you're basking in the sunshine of an outdoor clothesline or making the most of indoor drying on a rainy day, the result is fresh, crisp, and eco-friendly laundry. So, why not give it a try and enjoy the benefits of hang-drying your clothes?

FAQ’s:

Is it okay to hang dry clothes outside?

Yes, ofcourse. Infact, it is a great way to save time and energy. Hanging clothes to dry outside is a first step towards a greener lifestyle. Your clothes will have a more refreshing scent, and drying clothes outside extends the life of the clothing item.

Can I hang my clothes to  dry inside?

Without any second thoughts you can hang your clothes to dry in an indoor space. All you need is a well-ventilated room with constant air flow circulation, a clothesline and pegs.