Preventing Mould When Drying Laundry Indoors – Tips & Measures

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

Create optimal conditions

• Choose a warm room with a temperature of around 20 °C to prevent mould.
• Place the drying rack with the head side towards the open window so moisture can escape more easily.
• Avoid direct sunlight to prevent discolouration or material damage.

Efficient drying

• Use the highest possible spin speed when washing – less residual moisture means a lower risk of mould.
• Hang clothes with space between them to allow air circulation.
• Use hangers for shirts or blouses to save space and shorten drying time.

Ventilation and indoor climate

• Ventilate several times a day for around 10 minutes, ideally with cross-ventilation, to effectively remove moisture.
• Open windows on opposite sides of rooms to create efficient airflow.
• Turn down the heating while airing to save energy.

Additional measures

• A dehumidifier helps to keep humidity consistently low.
• A fan can improve air movement and speed up drying.
• For delicate fabrics, try the “towel trick”: roll the garment in a dry towel and gently press out excess moisture.

If mould appears despite these measures, it’s recommended to perform a self-test for mould or get a professional analysis, such as an indoor air mould test or a swab analysis. This way, the contamination can be accurately identified and targeted measures can be taken.

Good to know: Drying laundry indoors is generally permitted – even if your rental contract excludes it. In cases of persistently high humidity or visible mould, you should inform your landlord to find a solution together.