As the temperature drops and festive preparations take centre stage, winter brings a mix of cosy moments and practical challenges. From tackling endless laundry piles to keeping your home fresh and welcoming for guests, the colder months can put extra strain on daily routines.
Drying clothes indoors, dealing with musty smells, and prepping your home for festive hosting can feel like a juggling act. With this in mind, Ciara McGurk, Co-founder of luxury laundry shampoo and conditioner brand, Tallow + Ash, shares five tips to simplify your laundry routine, save energy, and prepare your home for hosting this season:
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Make the most of indoor drying
“Drying clothes indoors can be effective and energy-efficient when done right. Hang clothes on a drying rack with plenty of space between each item to allow airflow. Avoid hanging clothes on radiators, as this can cause excess moisture and lead to damp or mould in your home.
“Even something as simple as opening a window can make a significant difference. Drying clothes inside increases indoor humidity, so crack a window open or run a fan to prevent musty smells and keep dampness at bay.”
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Embrace outdoor drying
“Drying clothes outside during winter might seem unusual, but it’s a great way to save energy. Cold air, though less efficient than summer sun, can still pull moisture from fabrics, especially on a dry, breezy day.
“Space your clothes apart on the line to maximise airflow, and bring them in promptly to avoid frost. This method is completely cost-free and can significantly reduce your energy bills.”
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Master heated clothes airers
“Using a heated airer is a better alternative to a tumble dryer, as it’s gentler on fabrics and more energy-efficient. Whilst a popular solution during winter, they can be surprisingly inefficient if not used correctly.
“One of the biggest mistakes people make is overcrowding their airers. When clothes are packed together, the warm air can’t circulate, which leads to slower and uneven drying. Leaving small gaps between items and rotating them halfway through drying ensures faster, more consistent results. For thick items like towels or jeans, draping them loosely or drying lighter clothes first works best.
“Nevertheless, ventilation is also important as moisture released from drying clothes can lead to condensation and even mould. Always keep a window slightly open or use a dehumidifier to maintain air quality and help clothes dry more quickly.”
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Saving time and energy with extra spins
“Adding an extra spin cycle to your washing routine can make a big impact on drying times, especially during winter when air drying takes longer.
“An additional spin helps remove more water from clothes than the standard cycle. It’s particularly useful for heavy items like towels and blankets, which retain a lot of moisture. Compared to running a heated airer or tumble dryer, an extra spin uses minimal energy, saving both time and money.”
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Preparing your home for festive hosting
“Ensure guest bedding and towels are washed and freshened before visitors arrive. For festive linens or decorations stored away for months, a quick wash or airing out will remove musty smells. To create a welcoming atmosphere, choose naturally scented candles or fragranced laundry shampoos and conditioners for a cosy, seasonal scent.
“Planning laundry loads efficiently during the busy hosting season is also crucial. Wash full loads to save energy but avoid overloading your machine, as this can prevent proper cleaning. Use your washing machine’s eco-setting to balance thorough cleaning with energy conservation.”
To find out more information about laundry care or Tallow + Ash, please visit: www.tallow-ash.com/blogs/the-laundrylab-1