State pensioners told there's one item 'everyone' should own after £300 Winter Fuel Payment cut

State pensioners have been issued a warning over the item "everyone" should own as we head towards Christmas. After losing the £300 Winter Fuel Payment from the new Labour Party government, state pensioners have been warned over the Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) change.

The experts at Utility Bidder have offered expert insight on the effectiveness of the lauded laundry item - and whether they are a better alternative to other electrical drying appliances. James Longley, managing director at Utility Bidder, said: “As temperatures turn colder, it is becoming less and less possible to effectively dry your washing outside. However, there are effective alternative appliances that can help.

“Heated airers can offer energy-efficient drying, making them an eco-friendly choice when - and like normal clothes airers, they're space-saving and easy to use. Heated airers can be a more cost-efficient way to dry washing during winter.

READ MORE:UK issued alert over -5C snow which 'will last for 72 hours'

READ MORE:BBC Strictly results show star Alfie Boe's 'scary time' with 'really debilitating' health condition

READ MORE Met Office issues three-word update over snow battering UK within days

“Given that a 9kg heat pump tumble dryer, although a speedier option and one of the most cost-effective types - uses 2.16 kWh for a full load. As a result, you’ll be spending over 50p per cycle. A 300-watt heated airer, on the other hand, would cost more between 30p and 40p to use for five hours under the current energy price cap.”

He said: “Many may turn to radiators to dry their clothes, and although radiators may appear to be a cost-friendly alternative for drying your clothes, that is not their purpose. Wet clothes being placed on radiators could result in moisture being spread in the air and over time, mould build-up in the room.

“So even though drying your clothes on a radiator is an option, and may feel more comfortable for you in the short-term, realistically this will lead to the onset of more bills around the home. We also believe that it is important to be aware of the dangers of drying clothes on radiators, including the risk of ignition due to flammable materials being placed on a heat source. Also, the build-up of lint, dust, and fluff could further develop such fire risks.

“In order to compare appliances, this formula can help you calculate expenditure: Cost = power (kilowatt) × time (hour) × cost of 1 kWh (pence).”