The short answer: in winter the air is colder and more humid and there's less sun, so laundry takes longer to dry, and the longer it stays wet, the more likely it is to smell damp. The fix comes down to three things: less water in the clothes as they come out of the machine, air moving around them, and never folding until they're completely dry.
Why does laundry take longer in winter?
- Lower temperatures, so water evaporates more slowly.
- Higher humidity, so the air can't take much water from the clothes.
- Shorter days and weaker sun, and more drying indoors.
6 steps to faster drying
- Use a higher spin speed if the label allows. The less water left in the clothes, the shorter the drying time.
- Smaller loads. An overloaded machine leaves clothes heavier and more creased.
- Take the laundry out as soon as it finishes, and shake out each item before hanging.
- Leave space between items on the line or rack, and hang shirts on hangers.
- Heavy items on the outer edges, jeans inside out, and turn them after a while so the pockets and seams dry too.
- Only fold when completely dry. Moisture trapped between layers is what makes a wardrobe smell.
If you dry indoors
- Choose a spot with airflow, next to a slightly open window or in a room with a fan running.
- Avoid a closed room, because the humidity stays in that room.
- Don't dry on a heater or right next to one. It's a hazard and can damage the fabric.
- If you have a tumble dryer, use it only for items whose label allows it.
And softener scent in winter?
Softener gives clothes a lovely scent, but it won't cover a damp smell caused by slow drying. Fix the drying first, and then the scent comes through as it should. If the smell still isn't right: Why does your laundry smell damp?
RAWAQ fabric softener comes in two scents: Cotton Fresh for everyday clothes and sheets, and Soft Florals if you like a noticeable scent as you fold.
Frequently asked questions
Can I dry laundry in the bedroom?
Better not, especially with the door and window closed, because the humidity stays in the room. If you have to, open the window a little or run a fan.
Why do jeans take so long?
The fabric is heavy, and the pockets and seams hold water. Turn them inside out, hang them by the legs, and turn them again after a while.
How do I know clothes are completely dry?
Feel the thick parts: the collar, pockets, seams and the edges of towels. If you feel any coolness or damp, give them a little longer.
In short
In winter: a higher spin, smaller loads, space between items, moving air, and no folding until clothes are dry. That keeps laundry smelling clean all season.
For the whole process from start to finish: The home laundry guide.
RAWAQ fabric softener is coming soon. Join the waitlist and pick your scent.
Bottle images are illustrative designs; products and scents are still in development.
