How to Dry Clothes Faster in the Dryer

Common Reasons Your Tumble Dryer Isn’t Drying Clothes Properly

If your tumble dryer isn’t drying your clothes properly, there are several things to check as a start, such as correct dryer loading, filter blockages and drying sensor condition.

There are a variety of reasons why your tumble dryer may not be drying clothes as fast as it should. One of the most common issues is blocked filters. If lint builds up on the filters, drying performance will be reduced.

Overloading the machine is another culprit—when the drum is too full, clothes have less room to tumble and dry evenly. Likewise, under-loading may affect your tumble dryer’s sensors and prevent them from detecting the dryness of the laundry.

Incorrect settings can also lead to issues, especially if you're using a cycle that's not suited for the fabric or load size. To ensure you’re drying your clothes on the appropriate setting, check out our guide on how to select a program.

Different types of tumble dryers may cause specific issues. For example, condenser tumble dryers often require additional maintenance and can struggle with drying clothes if the condenser unit is clogged with lint or debris. Here is how to clean your condenser to optimise performance.

By identifying these issues, you can address them and significantly reduce drying times.

How to Troubleshoot a Tumble Dryer Not Drying Clothes

If your tumble dryer isn’t drying clothes properly, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem. Start by checking the lint filter and condenser (if you have a condenser dryer). A blocked lint filter or clogged condenser can restrict airflow and reduce drying performance. Clean the lint filter after every load, and ensure the condenser is free of lint and debris by rinsing it under tap water every month.

For vented tumble dryers, the issue might be with the vent hose. Check for any blockages in the hose that could be stopping air from escaping. Poor ventilation can cause moisture to linger, resulting in clothes staying damp.

You should also review the cycle settings you’re using. Some fabrics require specific settings, and using a high-heat cycle on delicate items, for instance, won’t necessarily speed up the drying process and may damage your clothes.

If these steps don’t solve the issue, it may be time to call a technician to inspect the heating element, sensors, or other internal components that could be malfunctioning.

Regular Maintenance Tips for Faster Drying

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your dryer running efficiently. Cleaning the lint trap after each load is the most basic step, but don’t forget to also clean the vent and ducts periodically.

If you have a heat pump tumble dryer, make sure to clean the evaporator every six months for optimal performance. Certain Beko tumble dryer models feature a warning symbol on the digital display that appears when this needs attention. To make sure you clean the evaporator properly, follow our step-by-step guide.

If your dryer has a moisture sensor, give it a clean every few months. Lint can accumulate on the sensor and prevent it from accurately detecting moisture levels, which can lead to extended drying times.

Follow these steps to clean your drying sensor and speed up drying times:

1. Locate the sensor bars behind the lint filter, inside the door opening.
2. Allow the machine to cool down if it’s still warm from a recent cycle.
3. Gently wipe the sensor bars using a soft cloth. If needed, dampen the cloth with a bit of vinegar for better cleaning.
4. Avoid abrasive cleaners to protect the metal surfaces.
5. Dry the sensor bars completely with a clean, soft cloth before using your dryer again.
6. Clean the drying sensors every three months to maintain optimal performance and faster drying times.

Loading the Dryer for Optimal Performance

How you load your dryer can have a significant impact on drying times. Avoid overloading, as it restricts airflow and prevents clothes from tumbling freely. Clothes should be able to move around in the drum so that hot air can circulate properly. On the other hand, underloading your dryer isn’t recommended either, as it can waste energy.

Using dryer balls is another trick to help clothes dry faster. These handy accessories separate garments, improving airflow and reducing drying time. For the best results, try adding a couple of dryer balls to each load.

Selecting the Right Dryer Settings

Selecting the correct dryer settings for your laundry can make a world of difference. For large, bulky items like towels or bedding, use a high heat setting to speed up the drying process. For delicate fabrics, use a lower heat setting, as too much heat can damage them. Many modern dryers have sensor drying cycles, which adjust the time based on the moisture level in your clothes. These cycles are not only energy-efficient but also reduce the risk of overdrying, which can waste energy and lengthen your laundry routine.

Additional Tips for Faster Drying

There are a few tricks you can try to dry your clothes faster. One option is to pre-dry your clothes in the wash cycle by selecting a high spin speed. This removes excess water and reduces drying time, especially for heavy fabrics.

You can also break large loads into smaller batches. While it may seem counterintuitive, drying smaller loads often gets the job done faster because the dryer can circulate air more effectively. If you’re in a rush, consider air-drying part of the load while drying the rest.

Upgrading Your Tumble Dryer for Better Efficiency

If your dryer still isn’t performing despite troubleshooting and regular maintenance, it might be time for an upgrade. Newer models are designed with energy efficiency in mind and advanced features that significantly reduce drying time while using less energy.

Heat Pump Tumble Dryers are particularly effective at drying clothes faster while being kinder to the environment. Upgrading to a modern appliance can make your laundry routine much easier, and many of the latest models include sensor drying technology and multiple cycle settings to suit various fabric types. Explore our top-rated energy-efficient dryers here.

FAQs

Why is my tumble dryer not drying clothes properly?

Your dryer may not be drying clothes properly due to reasons such as a clogged filter, an overloaded drum, or incorrect cycle settings. Regular maintenance like cleaning the lint trap and ensuring proper airflow can help resolve these issues.

How can I reduce drying times in my dryer?

To reduce drying times, make sure you’re not overloading the machine, use the correct dryer settings, and consider adding dryer balls or a dry towel to the load to absorb excess moisture.

What dryer setting should I use for faster drying?

For faster drying, choose a high-heat setting for heavy items like towels and blankets, but make sure to read your garment’s care label beforehand to avoid damaging your clothes.

Use sensor drying cycles for an energy-efficient and time-saving solution that automatically adjusts based on moisture levels.

Does cleaning the lint trap help clothes dry faster?

Yes, cleaning the lint trap after every load helps improve airflow and ensures your dryer operates efficiently, which can lead to faster drying times.