Prevent Mold While Drying Laundry Indoors, Tips & Measures

Drying laundry indoors requires some important strategies to avoid mold growth and excessive humidity. Here are the most important tips:

Creating Optimal Conditions

• Choose a warm room with a temperature of around 20 °C to prevent the formation of mold.
• Place the drying rack with its top side facing the open window to improve air circulation and reduce humidity.
• Avoid direct sunlight, as this can cause discoloration and make materials fragile.

Efficient Drying

• Use the highest spin speed when washing to minimize residual moisture. Less moisture means a lower risk of mold growth.
• Hang clothes with space between them to allow better air circulation and reduce the risk of humidity and mold growth.
• Use hangers for some clothes to save space and optimize drying time.

Ventilation and Indoor Climate

• Ventilate several times a day for about 10 minutes, preferably with cross ventilation, to minimize excess moisture and the risk of mold growth.
• Open two opposite windows to improve air circulation, creating a drier indoor climate that leaves no room for mold.
• Turn down the heating while ventilating to save energy.

Additional Measures

• Use a dehumidifier to keep the humidity level consistently low and reduce the risk of mold infestation.
• Consider using a fan to support the drying process and distribute the moisture more effectively.
• For delicate clothing, the "towel trick" works well: roll the garment in a towel and press gently to remove excess moisture.

If you notice mold in your home despite these measures, you should perform a mold test or a professional mold analysis to identify the exact causes. Such a test can help determine the type of mold and take targeted steps to combat it.

Note that drying laundry indoors is generally allowed, even if the rental agreement tries to forbid it. If you experience persistent problems with high humidity or visible mold, contact your landlord to find a solution together.