Expert warns against putting wet bedsheets on a radiator - even in cold weather

03 March 2023 , 10:18

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Cleaning bedsheets can be a pain in cold weather (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images)

Bedsheets are one of the biggest laundry items many of us need to wash on a regular basis, and getting them dry can be a real nightmare when they take up so much room.

Ideally, we'd be able to hang them on the line to dry in the sun, but there's still a wintry chill in the air and there's even more cold weather on the way next week, so putting anything outside to dry seems like a bad idea.

But if you're trying to conserve energy and cut down your tumble dryer use, there aren't many options left - as experts say you should also never put your bedsheets on the radiator.

Line drying is ideal, but not practical unless the sun's out (stock photo) (Getty Images)

According to a bed expert, you should keep wet sheets away from radiators as much as possible, as the damp conditions can be a magnet for mould growth.

Speaking to The Express, Steve Hamblett, owner of Sofabed.co.uk, said: "Hanging wet items on radiators can encourage mould to thrive, leading to a fungal condition called Aspergillosis."

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Instead, Steve recommends finding a large area where you can spread your bedsheets out, such as the bannister in your hallway, or in a spare room with a window open to allow for good air circulation.

He added: "The best way to dry your bedding indoors is to aim for a large surface area to allow the fabric to fully breathe.

"If you're able to, drape your damp sheets over the bannister so you can make use of the full length of your stairwell to dry them in a straight and upright position. Do the same with doors.

"However, make sure to keep the door open whilst the item is drying to allow maximum airflow and to stop your sheets from getting damaged."

Meanwhile, one mum recently discovered she could get her bedsheets to dry in just one hour without using a tumble dryer - because of the material her sheets were made from.

Heidi Ondrak claimed that duvet covers made from a fleece material dry faster than cotton ones, and after putting her sheets in the washing machine for an extra spin cycle, they came out practically dry already.

Then, she simply had to leave them to air dry for an hour before they were ready to be put back on her bed.

Zahna Eklund