We’ve all been there—rushing to dry a last-minute outfit or a week’s worth of laundry, only to end up with wrinkled clothes or even shrunken items. While your clothes dryer can be a real time-saver, a few common mistakes could be sabotaging your laundry routine. Here are 10 common clothes dryer mistakes and how to avoid them to keep your wardrobe looking fresh, wrinkle-free, and in great shape.
1. Overloading the Dryer
It may seem like a good idea to cram as many clothes as possible into the dryer, but this can actually be counterproductive. Overloading your dryer reduces airflow, which results in longer drying times and clothes that come out wrinkled. Stick to smaller loads to ensure your clothes have space to tumble and dry properly.
2. Skipping the Lint Trap Clean
One of the most common yet overlooked mistakes is forgetting to clean the lint trap. Lint buildup reduces airflow, making your dryer less efficient and even creating a fire hazard. Make it a habit to clean the lint trap before or after every load to boost efficiency and keep your home safe.
3. Drying Mixed Fabrics Together
Different fabrics dry at different speeds. Tossing delicate fabrics like silk in with heavier items like jeans or towels can lead to shrinkage, fabric damage, or even clothes that come out still damp. Keep similar fabrics together and always check care labels to prevent these issues.
4. Ignoring the Drying Time Settings
Using the same dryer setting for every load? That could be a problem. Over-drying can wear out fabrics, while under-drying leaves clothes damp. Learn your dryer’s settings and adjust them according to your load type—heavier fabrics need more time, while lightweight clothes require less.
5. Neglecting to Clean the Dryer Vent
When was the last time you cleaned your dryer vent? A clogged vent reduces efficiency and may even cause your dryer to overheat. Cleaning your dryer vent every few months can help prevent these issues, keep your dryer running smoothly, and even save energy.
6. Not Checking for Leftover Objects
We’ve all been guilty of forgetting to empty pockets before tossing clothes into the dryer. Leftover items like tissues, coins, or pens can wreak havoc—staining clothes or leaving a mess. Always double-check pockets before drying to avoid unwanted surprises.
7. Not Using Wool Dryer Balls
Avoid tangled sheets and stuck clothes by adding Wool Dryer Balls to your routine. These balls help separate clothes, reducing wrinkles and cutting drying time by absorbing excess moisture. Wool dryer balls are especially handy for mixed loads with varying fabric types and sizes.
8. Leaving Clothes in the Dryer for Too Long
Leaving clothes in the dryer after the cycle ends leads to wrinkles, making clothes harder to fold. Try to remove your clothes as soon as they’re done and give them a quick shake to avoid those pesky creases.
9. Forgetting to Maintain Your Dryer
Routine dryer maintenance is key to keeping it running efficiently. In addition to cleaning the lint trap and vent, check hoses and ducts periodically. An annual inspection can help catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs.
10. Using the Wrong Dryer Settings
Make sure you’re using the right dryer settings for the fabric type. High heat can cause shrinkage and damage delicate fabrics, while lower heat settings are better for items like wool or silk. Always refer to clothing labels for the best drying instructions.
By avoiding these common clothes dryer mistakes, you can extend the life of your dryer, save energy, and keep your clothes looking their best. Want more tips? Check out our viral TikTok here for even more laundry hacks!
