Understanding Tumble Dry: Deciphering the True Meaning Behind the Setting
Tackling the laundry game can be a bit tricky, especially when it comes to the dryer. If you've ever found your favorite shirt coming out several sizes smaller after a drying session, you're not alone! The art of drying clothes is more than just tossing your damp clothes into the machine and pressing start. With the help of some laundry pros, let's delve into the world of tumble drying and learn how to dry your clothes properly without damaging them.
The Lowdown on Tumble Drying
Ever wondered what those funny symbols on your garment's label are trying to tell you? That circle within a square with various symbols inside represents "tumble dry." This versatile laundry method allows you to place your items in an automatic dryer, where they'll undergo a tumbling session until they're completely dry.
As Mary Gagliardi, also known as "Dr. Laundry," and Clorox's in-house scientist and cleaning expert, explains, the fine print on your garment's care label usually includes more detailed instructions. These may include the safe temperature range for drying, washing methods, bleaching guidelines, and ironing techniques.
Tumble Dryer Settings: Deciphering the Code
You might be surprised to learn that all those settings on your dryer are simply different versions of "tumble dry." Alicia Sokolowski, the president and Co-CEO of Aspen Clean, reveals that the rotating drum of your dryer promotes even drying and prevents wrinkles by continuously tumbling your garments.
Typical dryer settings include timed dry, automatic dry, wrinkle-free, air fluff, perm press, and delicate. The settings vary depending on the amount of heat and the specific capabilities of neater dryers.
For example, an air fluff cycle tumbles the laundry in room-temperature air. This gentle option is perfect for certain fabrics like lace or delicate items that can't withstand heat. On the other hand, perm press (or permanent press) refers to medium heat with a cool-down cycle, which is ideal for synthetic blends.
Tumble Dry vs. Air Dry: When to Choose
Sometimes decision-making can make or break the fate of your clothes. When deciding between tumble dry and air dry, always consult the care label first. If your garment isn't labeled for tumble dry, it's best to air dry it using a clothesline or laying it flat to prevent damage.
Air drying extends the life of your clothes by prolonging their color and minimizing shrinkage, even if the care label states that tumble drying is an option. To air dry, simply hang thin items like shirts or jeans on a line, or lay thicker items like sweaters flat to avoid distortions.
When to Tumble Dry: Fabric Friends
Tumble drying is ideal for items that require heat for a thorough dry and can withstand the friction of the dryer drum. Some excellent options for tumble drying include bath towels, cotton, bamboo, and linen blanket sheets, denim, and synthetic fabrics or blends. Tumble drying is also useful for items with filling, like down jackets, duvets, comforters, or pillows.
To optimize the drying process, consider adding some clean tennis balls or wool dryer balls to the load. They help promote thorough drying and reduce drying time.
When to Steer Clear of Tumble Dry: Delicate Duds
While delicates like silk, wool, and lingerie can tolerate a low-heat tumble dry setting, they need gentle care to preserve their quality. Avoid tumble drying these items, and be cautious with items featuring elastic embellishments, as they may warp or melt in high heat.
Tumble drying isn't recommended for compression garments like workout or activewear, so always double-check your care labels before tossing your clothes into the dryer.
Tumble Dry Tips and Tricks
After learning the ins and outs of tumble drying, it's important to adhere to some best practices to ensure your clothes come out looking and feeling their best. Here are some top tips from our laundry pros:
- Transfer fresh laundry from the washer to the dryer as soon as possible to maintain freshness and prevent odors.
- Choose cooler temperatures for synthetic and athleisure wear to prevent damage.
- Avoid overloading your dryer, as it can cause tangling and prevent full drying. Make sure to leave room for proper air circulation.
- Clean the lint tray after each load to maintain efficiency and reduce fire risk.
- Remove items from the dryer immediately after the cycle to prevent wrinkles.
By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to dryer madness mastery and a beautifully cleaned wardrobe. Happy laundering!
- When checking the laundry linens before drying, ensure to note the symbols on the garment's label, as the circle within a square with various symbols inside indicates 'tumble dry.'
- MarthaStewart recommends using the 'perm press' setting on the dryer for synthetic blends to achieve medium heat with a cool-down cycle, which is ideal for these types of materials.
- The variability in dryer settings allows for different drying methods, such as the 'air fluff' cycle which is perfect for delicates that can't withstand heat, promoting even drying while preventing wrinkles.
- If your Aussiedlerbote (German immigrant) gains a new creditline, they should be mindful of the fabric types and follow the recommended care labels, as some materials such as silks and wool may need to be air-dried instead of tumble-dried to preserve their quality.
