Expert lists seven reasons why you should never dry your clothes on a radiator
Experts from British Gas have advised against drying your laundry on your radiators because of its risk to your heating system, home and well-being.
Whilst it might seem convenient, boiler experts have warned that it could be negatively impacting your boiler efficiency and energy bills.
British Gas Service and Repair Engineer Joanna Flowers has warned that this seemingly harmless habit could be having a harmful effect on your home health.
Flowers said: "Drying clothes on radiators might seem convenient, but the hidden costs and risks to your home, health, and heating system outweigh the benefits."
Why drying clothes on heaters is problematic
1. Overworking your boiler
Radiators heat your home efficiently by distributing warmth evenly, but by draping wet clothes over them, you disrupt this process. Your clothes act as a barrier, causing your radiators to work harder to heat the room and causing your boiler to pump out more energy to compensate.
Flowers said: "Over time, this strain can reduce the efficiency of your heating system, potentially leading to costly repairs or even shortening your boiler’s lifespan.
"Additionally, radiators’ thermostatic controls may detect localised heat increases caused by obstructed airflow and shut down prematurely, leaving some areas of your home cold and forcing you to raise the thermostat unnecessarily."
2. Reduced Heating Efficiency and Increased Costs
Similarly to the above, blocking radiators with wet laundry prevents heat from circulating effectively. This forces your boiler to consume more energy to maintain a comfortable temperature, which in turn increases utility bills and leaves some rooms colder than others.
Flowers warned: "While drying clothes on radiators might seem cost-effective, it often leads to a spike in heating costs due to the increased pressure on your system."
"Homeowners frequently respond by turning up the boiler temperature, compounding energy waste. To optimise heat flow, consider using an airing rack placed in front of a radiator, rather than directly on it."
3. Condensation, Damp, and Humidity Problems
Wet clothes release moisture into the air when exposed to heat, especially from radiators. This humidity can settle on cold surfaces such as walls and windows and cause condensation.
Flowers said: "Over time, this can cause damp patches, peeling paint, stained walls, and even structural damage like wood rot."
4. Mould Growth
Drying clothes indoors can cause a damp environment, which in turn provides is a breeding ground for mould. Mould can form on walls, ceilings, or behind furniture, causing stains and structural damage. that could weaken plaster and wallpaper.
Concerningly, mould releases airborne spores that can exacerbate respiratory issues, asthma, and allergies.
Flowers warned: "In severe cases, exposure can lead to fungal infections like aspergillosis. Avoiding radiator drying and ensuring proper ventilation are key to preventing these risks, and you could consider using a dehumidifier."
5. Clothing Damage
Direct heat on your clothes can shrink fabrics, warp fibres, and cause discoloration. Delicate and dyed garments are especially vulnerable to this damage, which can make their lifespan shorter.
Flowers said: "Prolonged exposure to intense heat can also create stiff textures or leave fabrics with heat stains, which may require additional cleaning or render the clothes unusable. For better results, use an airing rack that allows for even airflow around your clothes."
6. Fire Risks
Whilst unlikely with modern heating systems, drying clothes directly on radiators can increase the likelihood of fires in your home. Space heaters or older heating systems without modern safety features are especially susceptible to this.
Flowers commented: "Dust accumulation on radiators can also become a fire hazard when exposed to excessive heat, particularly when combined with synthetic fabrics.
"To reduce fire risks, avoid drying clothes directly on any heating appliance, and ensure your radiators are clean and functioning properly."
7. Unpleasant Odours
Flowers warned that drying clothes on radiators can cause moisture to become trapped, leading to musty odours. These odours often require additional cleaning at a dry-cleaners to fully remove.
She said: "To prevent this, ensure adequate ventilation and allow airflow around drying clothes by avoiding direct contact with radiators. Using a drying rack near, rather than on, the radiator will help clothes dry more evenly and efficiently."