December 1, 2022, 12:04 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
Outside, the thermometer drops below freezing, while inside, the drying rack takes up a lot of space. Additionally, high humidity promotes mold growth. Can you hang laundry outside even in subzero temperatures?
In winter, hanging laundry can quickly become a challenge. However, it is still possible to dry clothes in the fresh air during the cold season. In fact, they can dry better in the cold than at higher temperatures. Additional benefits: You avoid excessive humidity indoors and prevent mold, save space, and also conserve energy.
Hanging Laundry Outside in Winter–What to Consider
It’s best to hang laundry outside in light subzero temperatures with a bit of wind. It’s important that the individual pieces are not too close together–otherwise, it takes longer for them to dry. Additionally, you must ensure there is no fog, rain, or snow on that day. The air must be dry, as emphasized by experts from Forum Waschen.
Also of interest: How to Avoid Mold in Your Home During Winter
Why Ventilating in Winter Can Be Bad for Us
What to Watch Out for When Drying Laundry Indoors
Why Laundry Dries Outside Even in Winter
The principle by which laundry dries in the cold is called sublimation. This is a process from thermodynamics: A solid substance transitions into a gaseous state without first becoming liquid. For laundry, this means it initially becomes stiff when drying. Once it thaws, it returns to its normal state and is as soft and flexible as usual.
Do Not Dry Laundry Outside in Extremely Low Temperatures
If temperatures drop significantly below zero, laundry should not be left outside. Otherwise, it would freeze. If laundry does freeze outside, it should not be removed from the line immediately. Otherwise, the fabrics could break. It’s best to bring the rack inside and wait until the laundry has thawed. After that, you can take it down as usual.