Due to busy schedules, many families choose to wash and dry their clothes at night. Typically, they hang their clothes on the balcony or by the window… but some even hang them outside.
On the blog In The Wash, which specializes in tips for clothing care, the question of whether it is advisable to dry clothes at night occasionally comes up for discussion among members.
Late morning to early afternoon is the ideal time for drying clothes – (Photo: WSJ).
According to experts, if the weather is dry, warm, and breezy, drying clothes overnight isn’t a terrible option. However, generally, night is not an ideal time for drying clothes.
In high humidity areas like Vietnam, the night dew can leave clothes damp, and they may also collect pollutants that are harmful to fabrics. Over time, garments can develop mold and become dirty, which is particularly concerning for wearers, especially young children who have sensitive skin.
Additionally, clothes dried at night are at risk of being infested by insects. These pests can leave eggs, droppings, and secretions on the fabric, which can be harmful to our skin when worn later.
So when is the best time to dry clothes? Experts suggest that the best time is from late morning to early afternoon when sunlight is at its strongest. Sunny weather combined with a light breeze helps fabrics dry quickly and sanitizes them better.
“Sunlight contains ultraviolet rays, a type of radiation that can kill many harmful bacteria. This way, clothes are disinfected,” explains Professor Elena Karpova from the University of North Carolina (USA), who specializes in sustainable textiles.
In some regions, clothes dried during the day can also be infused with the fresh scents of nature, especially in spring.
“It’s advisable to bring clothes inside before sunset to prevent them from developing odors. Dew that falls after sunset can cause your freshly washed clothes to smell and feel damp,” laundry expert Sarah Dempsey notes in Daily Express (UK).
