Air drying clothes is simple, saves energy, and reduces wear on fabrics. 

Energy Use and Carbon Footprint

The amount of energy used to dry clothes in a dryer depends on several factors, including the type of dryer, its efficiency, the load size, and the moisture content of the clothes. Electric dryers typically use 2 to 6 kWh per load and gas dryers use about 0.25 to 0.5 therms of natural gas per load, plus a small amount of electricity. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, on an annual basis, this amounts to about ~700–900 kWh per year for electric dryers and ~75 therms per year for gas dryers. For electric dryers, the carbon emissions per load is on average 0.8 to 2.4 kg CO₂. For gas dryers, the carbon emissions per load is on average  1.3 to 2.7 kg CO₂. Assuming around 200 loads per year, Annual Emissions (CO₂) are ~160–480 kg CO₂ for electric dryers or ~260–540 kg CO₂ for gas dryers.

• Efficiency: ENERGY STAR dryers use about 20% less energy than standard models.
  
• Load Size: Drying small loads is less efficient; large, full loads are more energy efficient.
  
• Drying Time & Settings: Using “auto dry” or moisture sensors reduces energy waste.
  
• Spin Cycle: Clothes that are better wrung out in the washer take less time (and energy) to dry.
  

Fabric Wear & Tear

While dryers are convenient, they do cause significant, gradual fabric degradation on clothing. Frequent drying can cut garment life in half compared to air drying. For example, a T-shirt washed and dried weekly may wear out in 1–2 years.

1. Mechanical Agitation. Clothes tumble and rub against each other and the drum, which causes fiber breakdown, pilling, stretched seams, and worn areas.
   
2. Heat Exposure. High temperatures weaken elastic fibers (e.g., in underwear, leggings), fades colors, and can shrink natural fibers (like cotton or wool).
   
3. Lint = Lost Fabric. The lint trap collects actual fibers from your clothes. Over time, this means thinner, weaker fabric. A dryer load can shed up to 0.5–1.0 grams of fiber—tiny, but cumulative. 

Air Drying 

Air drying is much gentler and extends clothing life—especially important for high-quality or delicate garments. Air drying can extend the life of T-shirt to 3–5 years, depending on fabric quality. Here are some tips to do it effectively:

1. Use a Drying Rack

• Collapsible racks are great for small spaces.
  
• Place in a well-ventilated area (near a window, heater, or fan if possible).
  
• Spread clothes out to maximize airflow and avoid overlap.
  

2. Use Hangers or Shower Rods

• Hang shirts or dresses on plastic or wood hangers.
  
• Use the shower rod for towels or pants.
  

3. Speed Up Drying

• Turn on a fan or dehumidifier.
  
• Open windows to reduce moisture buildup.
  
• Spin clothes thoroughly in the washer to remove as much water as possible first.
  

4. Drying Time

• Indoors: 4 to 24 hours depending on humidity, airflow, and item thickness.
  
• Outdoors: 1 to 4 hours in sunny, breezy conditions.
  

5. Tips to Avoid Stiffness

• Shake garments before hanging.
  
• Add a little white vinegar to the rinse cycle to soften.