Tumble dryers heat up the air inside them to dry the laundry. This helps prevent clothes and textiles from being damaged due to moisture.
Ventilated tumble dryers require a vent to let out the heated air. This is essential to ensure that your tumble dryer functions efficiently and effectively.
Newer heat-pump operated models don't need a vent, but they do still require regular supply of cool air to function properly. This will allow them to run more efficiently and decrease the energy consumption.
Low temperatures
The setting with the lowest heat is used to shield delicate fabrics and delicate materials from extreme heat. The setting works by spinning the garments to eliminate excess water instead of using the high heat that dryers use when running the spin cycle. You can alter the settings for your tumble dryer using the knob to select the program.
Examine the label of each item prior to putting it in the dryer. Certain fabrics are not able to handle the heat. Fabrics intended for dry cleaning should not be placed in the dryer. The heat can cause them to lose their shape and be damaged. Other fabrics can be dried using a tumble dryer, however the temperature needs to be lower than that typically used for cotton garments.
Gentle cycle or low heat are great for delicate fabrics such as sheer, lace, and chiffon fabrics. This setting uses a very minimal amount of heat which helps prevent the fabric from shrinking and warping and also reduces static. This setting is great for clothing made of spandex or other elastic fabrics. They tend to stretch and melt when dried at high temperatures.
Another setting for heat is the permanent wrinkle or press resistant setting. This setting produces a medium temperature, which is sufficient for the majority of fabrics to stay dry without causing damage. This is a great option for cotton fabric such as cotton bath towels as well as cotton t-shirts. It can also be used on other cotton items which would otherwise break if heated to high levels.
Some tumble dryers also have an 'cotton setting', or "cotton dry" option that is designed for heavy cotton fabrics such as sheets, bed sheets and other linens. While this setting can be used for clothes made of cotton that will not easily shatter, it is usually recommended to stick with an 'extra delicate or tumble dry low' cycle for these garments.
Medium heat
The medium heat setting has a lower level of intensity than the high heat, so it is suitable for most fabrics. Certain fabrics might shrink if dried at this temperature. So, make sure you check the care label or the manufacturer's instructions to determine what temperature is recommended.
This setting will stop shrinkage of cotton clothing, towels and bed sheets, while preserving their quality, texture, and color. The setting for medium heat is also safe for most synthetic clothing, such as those made from polyester. However, it's best to avoid drying these fabrics on this setting if they come with specific instructions for washing and drying which recommend the use of a low or no heat setting.
Other fabrics, including silk and wool, could be damaged by the extreme temperatures of the medium heat setting. Use a mesh laundry bag and follow the care instructions on the garment when using this setting. This will safeguard delicate fabrics during the tumble drying process. Additionally, if the fabric contains any embellishments or other decorations that could potentially melt or degrade during the drying process it is recommended to select a lower heat setting.
Another type of material that requires the use of a tumble dryer with a low heat setting is spandex, as well as other workout clothes, which can be stretched or damaged by high temperatures. This is why the "sportswear" setting on many appliances is perfect for these kinds of clothes because it helps keep their shape and texture while saving energy.
Based on the brand and model of your dryer depending on the model and brand of your dryer, the automatic and timed settings will require a different amount heat than the setting for medium heat. This is because the timed dry option lets you set how long you'd like your clothes to stay in the dryer, whereas the regular or automatic cycle will use a moisture sensor to determine when they're ready.
Some tumble dryers offer an option called 'cotton settings' that can be used to dry cotton clothing such as t-shirts and underwear. This setting is not recommended for delicate fabrics because it can cause them to shrink and lose their shape as well as increase the chance of causing damage to other kinds of fabrics.
High temperatures
Many tumble dryers come with an extremely high temperature setting that is ideal for heavier cotton fabrics. This setting helps dry items faster and prevents wrinkles, but it's not recommended for delicate or delicately washed clothes as the high heat can cause them to shrink, fade or lose their shape. For instance wool sweaters or silk dress shouldn't be tumble dried because the high temperatures can damage them. These fabrics should be dried by air to prevent any shrinkage or damage and to preserve their softness and smooth texture.
Another popular tumble dryer setting is the low heat setting, which is perfect for delicate fabrics. The setting for low heat is more gentle on fabrics than the medium temperature setting, and helps reduce wear on the fabric. It also helps to keep colors intact and reduces fading. It is a great option for lingerie and knitwear as well as spandex workout clothes and sheer fabrics like chiffon or lace. The lower temperature settings can also help reduce allergens, such as pollen and pet dander, which can cause irritation or allergies.
The setting for medium heat is perfect for synthetics, shirts and polyester. It's also a great choice for robes, sheets, towels and winter coats. It is important to check the labels on these clothes because some may require lower heat settings than others.
The heavy-duty cycle is made for heavy items that can endure higher temperatures. This includes comforters, blankets and jeans. Also towels, robes, towels and winter coats. While this setting is ideal for the majority of fabrics, it's recommended to use mesh bags or a pillowcase for drying these items to protect expensive or delicate clothes. Some manufacturers also recommend installing a filter in the dryer vent to stop warm air from being blown directly onto your clothes.
No heat
Tumble dryers heat air to move and remove moisture from clothes. Dry air is either vented outside or absorbed by a condenser or heat pump or tumbler with a vent outside.
Each type of tumble dryer has its pros and pros and. While all three types are efficient at drying laundry, it is important to understand the differences between high, low and no temperatures so that you can choose the right one for each load of clothes.
The highest temperature setting of your dryer is usually the high tumble setting, which is 130oF (52.2oC). This is great for items that require additional heating to dry quickly, like beach towels or cotton sweatshirts from your vacation. It's also the best option for if you want to dry heavy items, like bulky sweaters or jeans. The high setting is perfect for towels and bedding, as they can easily manage the high temperatures.
The low tumble dry setting typically is around 105oF (48oC) and is great for delicate, lightweight fabrics like knitwear or sheers and workout clothes made from stretchy fabrics like spandex and lycra. It is an excellent choice for lingerie or bras that are susceptible to being damaged by heat. It can help prevent fraying, fading and stretching.
heat pump tumble dryers come with a no heat tumble dryer setting, which is typically room temperature and often called an air fluff setting on your machine. This is not the best option for most fabrics, as it's intended to refresh and slough off bedding and other bulky items like winter coats in between washes. It's not recommended for fabrics that cannot withstand heat as they will likely be damaged or wrinkled up due to the absence of heat.
Certain tumble dryers provide an anti-allergy option which operates at a slightly warmer temperature approximately 110oF (43oC). This is an excellent option for those that have sensitive skin, since it can help eliminate excess dust particles and other allergens from your clothes. It's also a good choice for people suffering from respiratory problems, as it can help to reduce coughing or wheezing associated with allergy and asthma symptoms.
