The dryer setting you should never use

Dryers make laundry easier, but the wrong settings can quietly ruin clothes. Most people load the machine, press start, and never think twice. Yet, one setting in particular is responsible for shrinking, fading, and wearing out fabrics faster than anything else: high heat. Many busy households stick with London laundry services to avoid these mistakes, but if you’re drying at home, here’s why you should rethink that setting.

Why High Heat Is a Problem

High heat might dry clothes quickly, but it does so at a cost. Fabrics exposed to extreme temperatures break down faster. Elastic loses its stretch, fibers become brittle, and colors fade prematurely. Clothes may feel warm and dry, but the long-term damage is unavoidable.

The Shrinkage Issue

Nothing ruins a favorite outfit faster than shrinkage. Cotton, wool, and many blended fabrics tighten when exposed to high heat. That perfect-fit shirt can easily become too small in just one cycle. Once fabric shrinks, it’s nearly impossible to reverse.

Damage to Elastic and Sportswear

Workout clothes, leggings, and anything with stretch rely on elastic fibers. High heat weakens those fibers, leaving clothes saggy and misshapen. Air-drying or using a low-heat setting preserves shape and performance.

Fading Colors Faster

Heat accelerates fading, especially in dark clothes and vibrant fabrics. If your favorite jeans or bright tops look dull after a few months, the dryer is likely to blame. Low heat or air-dry options keep colors bold for longer.

Extra Wear on Delicate Fabrics

Silk, rayon, and lace should never touch high heat. These delicate fabrics lose structure quickly, and even one cycle can ruin them. Always read care labels—when in doubt, air dry.

The Better Alternatives

Instead of high heat, use these options:

• Low heat: Safe for most fabrics, though drying takes longer.
• Air dry setting: Uses room-temperature air, perfect for delicate items.
• Line drying: Zero energy, gentle on fabrics, and adds freshness.
• Moisture sensor cycles: Many modern dryers stop automatically when clothes are dry, preventing over-drying.

Why People Still Use High Heat

High heat seems faster and more efficient, but the savings are an illusion. Clothes wear out faster, leading to higher replacement costs. Longer-lasting clothes save more money in the long run.

Tips for Safer Drying

• Dry towels and bedding on medium instead of high to protect fibers.
• Separate loads—light fabrics dry faster and don’t need extended heat.
• Clean the lint filter after every load to improve airflow and efficiency.
• Remove clothes while slightly damp and let them finish drying naturally.

Final Thoughts

The high-heat dryer setting may seem convenient, but it’s secretly one of the most damaging options. Switching to low heat, air dry, or line drying extends the life of your clothes, keeps colors brighter, and saves money. For even more laundry care advice and practical hacks, check out Hamlet Laundry’s Facebook page, where people share real solutions that actually work at home.