Experts warn that drying clothes in poorly ventilated rooms in winter can lead to the growth of mold, fungi and bacteria.
According to Homecure Plumbers, hanging wet clothes is one of the most common reasons people find condensation and mold in their homes. It may be cheaper than using a washer-dryer, but drying clothes on a radiator, for example, takes about a third of the moisture in the air.
“Wet clothing releases moisture into the air as it dries; if not adequately ventilated, it can condense on cold surfaces and lead to mold and mildew,” says Lee Devlin, CEO of Homecure Plumbers. “If possible, dry wet clothes outside or use a dryer. Not only do they help dry clothes faster, but they also prevent moisture from building up in the home.”
If you can’t dry your clothes outside (especially when the temperature drops), we recommend placing your wet clothes near ventilation and opening your bedroom window for at least 15 minutes every morning. Cold temperatures increase the chance of overnight moisture build-up, so it’s important to address the situation quickly.
“It’s best to have a humidifier or dehumidifier nearby to help reduce moisture in the air,” he adds. “In the morning, wipe windows, frames, and countertops with a paper towel or cloth to remove excess, heavy condensation.”
Elsewhere, recent figures from GOV.UK found that 463,866 homes in the UK are affected by mold and condensation, while renters are four times more likely to report mold and condensation than homeowners.