'Best time' to hang clothes outside to dry so as best avoid rain

09 March 2024 , 13:58

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Drying laundry outside is so much easier (Stock Image) (Image: Getty Images)

Sometimes, it can seem like an impossible task to get your washing dry, but with the weather brightening up, it may be time to hang clothes outside again.

Not only does this reduce cost, but it also reduces that damp smell that can occur when drying clothes inside, and can even reduce the likelihood of mould within the home, which will be a relief to many.

But when is it the best time to hang your clothes out on the line to ensure they dry quickly? Experts have recommended anywhere between 10am and 4pm would be a good idea - between late morning and early afternoon.

Jo Farrow, a senior forecaster from Netweather has explained that of course, it's common sense not to hang your washing out to dry while it's raining - but there are other things to factor in too, the Express reports.

"Not only does it need to be dry, but a breeze is key for good drying. It's not all about bright, warm sunshine. A fair, non-humid day with a breeze will work well, slightly better than a still, quite warm, sunny one", Jo explained. The slight breeze removes the moisture from the air, so sun and breeze are the perfect combination, but Jo shared that often these days can bring showers that "sneak up."

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She also reminded people that different fabrics take different amounts of time to dry, so while something lightweight like cotton may be ready to fold and put away quickly, denim will not.

She recommended not drying clothes outside on a day that's misty and foggy. "What you don’t want is fog or mist as that forms in still, calm conditions and is essentially your clothes sitting in a cloud, a mass of suspended water droplets", she said.

To get clothes to dry more quickly, maximise the clothes' exposure to the natural elements, and do not fold towels over. Also, ensure that zips are open or buttons undone so items can dry efficiently.

And, if the weather isn't so good outside, Jo recommended "an airer inside" and it "could be a safer bet but it can cause damp if not well-ventilated." She also said it's a good idea to keep your eye on the weather forecast to check when showers will occur.

Danielle Kate Wroe