Simple washing machine tip that could help clothes dry faster

Drying laundry throughout the winter can feel like a difficult task. Yet, one clever woman’s technique could have your clothes ready to wear much faster than anticipated.

Nicola Lewis, an expert in decluttering, organisation, and packing, regularly shares practical tips on her Instagram account @thisgirlcanorganise, which has amassed over 200,000 followers. In a past Instagram reel, she revealed a ‘secret’ feature on washing machines that could speed up drying time, even when hanging clothes indoors.

While straightforward, Nicola recommends switching the machine’s setting to ‘Drum/Spin’ and suggests implementing a ‘Double Spin for the Win’. Spin cycles don’t add water to garments; they simply rotate them at high speed to remove moisture. The greater the RPM – revolutions per minute – the more water will be stripped from your clothes.

According to the Mirror, the caption of Nicola’s reel read: “Double spin your laundry! Your clothes will come out much drier, allowing them to dry quicker. Always give your clothes a quick shake before hanging to dry to remove any creases.”

Her video also outlined various steps for indoor drying, including using a clothes horse alongside a dehumidifier. This device functions by removing excess moisture from the air.

Employing a dehumidifier is also suggested by Mark Walker, a laundry specialist at Denver Wash and Fold, who recently told The Express that it can help prevent mould and mildew.

He said: “Banish mould and mildew for good by introducing a dehumidifier into your winter drying routine. Not only will it remove moisture from your clothes faster, it’ll also make your home into a healthier environment. Place the device nearby and watch the tank fill up while you enjoy a well-deserved hot cocoa.”

However, he similarly added: “If you’re looking for a more economical alternative to tumble drying, then an extra spin cycle might be the answer. On average, it takes less energy to spin water out of the load than it does to heat it up and dry it, so go ahead and extract some extra moisture at the end of a wash.”

Besides this, Nicola’s video suggested that a fan could boost the circulation of ‘cold air, helping your clothes to dry faster’ as well. She said that any desktop fan could be used, as this is ‘cheaper than putting the heating on’.

Nicola’s post received many comments after publication, with numerous fans also sharing their laundry habits. At the time, one person reportedly wrote: “We’ve just invested in a dehumidifier and it’s b***** amazing.”

Likewise, another added: “No more condensation on the windows and that battle with mould feels like a distant memory!”, as someone else said: “So glad you put this, just ordered that dehumidifier.”

For the latest money-saving tips, shopping and consumer news, go to the new Everything Money website