UK households urged to stop drying clothes indoors - 'could be damaging'

UK households are being warned that drying clothes indoors could harm both their health and their homes. Experts say that hanging wet laundry over radiators or racks inside can release large amounts of moisture into the air, creating the perfect conditions for mould to grow.

Clothing specialists at Ready Steady Supplied said even one load of washing can add up to two litres of water into a home's atmosphere. That moisture often settles on cold surfaces such as windows, walls and ceilings, leading to condensation and mould. A spokesperson for the company told the Express: "People often think mould is just about stains on the wall or a musty smell, but it goes much deeper than that. It's a serious health risk, especially when caused by repeated indoor drying without ventilation."

Mould releases tiny airborne spores which can be breathed in. Over time, this can cause eye and skin irritation, blocked noses, coughing, sneezing and even respiratory infections.

Children, older people and those with asthma or allergies are particularly at risk, but even healthy people can develop symptoms without realising what's causing them.

The warning comes as many households avoid using tumble dryers to save money on energy bills. But experts say the long-term cost of fixing mould can be far higher.

Once mould spreads, it can get into walls, behind wallpaper, across ceilings and into soft furnishings.

In severe cases, professional removal can cost more than £3,000 if plaster, insulation or wooden structures have to be replaced.

"Mould is more than just a surface problem," the spokesperson said. "It causes real damage to homes and real risks to health."

To reduce the risk, the advice is to dry clothes outdoors wherever possible. If that's not an option, steps can be taken to reduce the impact indoors.

Opening windows while clothes are drying can improve airflow, while a dehumidifier can help remove moisture from the air.

Airers should be placed in well-ventilated rooms away from cold walls, and drying directly on radiators should be avoided.

Some households may also benefit from heated drying racks with covers, which trap steam and stop it from spreading around the room.

The experts say these small changes could help protect both health and finances.

"Indoor drying might seem like a harmless or budget-friendly solution, but over time it can cause serious problems," they added. "

Mould doesn't just ruin your paintwork, it can damage your lungs and your bank balance too."