As Britain shivers through another winter, households are sealing windows and turning up the heating to stay warm. However, this cosy strategy has a hidden downside: it traps excess moisture indoors, leading to rampant condensation and creating the perfect environment for mould to thrive.
The Critical Mistakes That Hinder Your Dehumidifier
Dehumidifiers are a powerful tool, not just for drying laundry indoors but for actively removing unwanted damp from the air in living rooms, bedrooms, and storage areas. To get the most from your appliance, consumer experts at Which? have issued crucial guidance on where to place it for maximum effect.
In a recent social media update, Which? demonstrated that strategic positioning can dramatically boost a dehumidifier's performance. The core principle is to place the unit centrally within a room. Crucially, there are two items you must keep it away from at all times.
Which? advised against placing the dehumidifier directly against walls or furniture, as this restricts airflow and hampers its ability to process air evenly. Instead, position it in the centre of the space or ensure it is at least 20cm away from any surface.
Furthermore, the experts issued a second vital warning: never position the device near a heat source like a radiator or an air vent. The proximity to heat can severely impact the unit's sensors and its overall efficiency, making it work harder for less result.
Slash Laundry Drying Times by Nearly Half
For those relying on dehumidifiers to tackle damp washing, correct placement is even more impactful. Which? conducted a comparative test using two identical loads of wet laundry. One load was dried with a dehumidifier placed strategically nearby, while the other was dried without.
The results were striking. Using a dehumidifier correctly cut the drying time by nearly half. The experts recommend hanging wet washing inside and placing the dehumidifier directly underneath or beside it. In their test, the appliance extracted around two litres of moisture from the air.
Removing this volume of water does more than just dry clothes faster; it actively reduces the risk of damp and mould developing in your home. This is particularly vital during cold, stormy periods like the recent Storm Goretti, when homes are sealed tight and moisture builds up rapidly.
Health Risks of Indoor Drying
The dangers of incorrect drying extend beyond property damage. Research indicates that drying clothes in frequently used rooms like bedrooms can pose health risks. Laundry specialists at In The Wash caution that moisture-laden laundry doesn't just encourage mould and damp.
It can also exacerbate or lead to respiratory issues, and wet laundry often develops an unpleasant, musty smell. Given that the bedroom is where people spend a significant portion of their time, it's a critical area to keep dry and well-ventilated.
By avoiding simple placement errors—keeping your dehumidifier away from walls, furniture, and heat sources—you can ensure it operates at peak efficiency. This will protect your home from mould, safeguard your health, and significantly reduce the time and energy needed to dry laundry indoors this winter.
