There’s something undeniably nostalgic and refreshing about the scent of sun-dried laundry fluttering in the breeze. But for many people, this experience is limited to the warmer months of the year. As winter sets in, we often turn to indoor drying methods out of necessity — but at what cost?
While drying clothes indoors might seem harmless, it can actually compromise your health in surprising ways.
The Damp Truth About Indoor Drying
When you hang wet clothes on a rack or radiator inside your home, the moisture from the fabric doesn’t just disappear — it evaporates into the air. A single load of laundry can release up to two liters of water, raising indoor humidity by as much as 30%.
This excess moisture creates the perfect breeding ground for mold spores and dust mites, both of which can have serious implications for respiratory health. Those with asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems are particularly at risk.
What the Research Shows
Studies in the UK have examined the health effects of drying laundry indoors. Professor David Denning of the National Aspergillosis Centre in Manchester shared a concerning link with the Daily Mail:
“Most people have immune systems strong enough to handle exposure to this fungus,” Denning said.
“But for individuals with asthma, it can cause increased coughing and breathing difficulties. And for those with compromised immunity — such as cancer patients on chemotherapy, people with autoimmune diseases, or individuals living with HIV/AIDS — the fungus can lead to a serious condition called pulmonary aspergillosis, which can cause permanent or even life-threatening lung and sinus damage.”
Understanding Pulmonary Aspergillosis
Pulmonary aspergillosis is part of a group of illnesses caused by the Aspergillus mold, which thrives in damp environments — like homes where clothes are dried indoors.
This condition typically affects the lungs, airways, and sinuses, and symptoms often mimic those of asthma or chronic sinus infections. These may include:
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Wheezing
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Persistent coughing
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Shortness of breath
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Fever
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Chest pain
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Coughing up blood
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Unintended weight loss
In severe cases, Aspergillus can spread to other organs and become life-threatening. While the illness isn’t contagious, it can be dangerous for people with weakened immune defenses and usually requires antifungal treatment.
One Family’s Wake-Up Call
Take the story of Craig Mather, a 43-year-old father of three from Bolton. Craig had battled asthma since childhood and had a history of tuberculosis. Over time, he developed a chronic lung infection believed to be linked to the habit of drying wet clothes in his bedroom.
“I started feeling better after my doctor diagnosed chronic pulmonary aspergillosis and prescribed antifungal treatments,” Craig shared.
“But I noticed my symptoms worsened whenever I dried laundry in the bedroom.”
With his doctor’s guidance, Craig stopped drying clothes indoors and noticed a marked improvement in his breathing and overall health over the next year.
How to Dry Laundry More Safely
Professor Denning advises avoiding indoor drying whenever possible. Here are some safer alternatives:
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Hang clothes outdoors when weather permits — sunlight naturally kills many microbes.
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Use a tumble dryer, ideally vented to the outside.
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Choose a well-ventilated room for indoor drying, preferably one not used for sleeping or long periods of sitting.
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Open windows during or after drying to allow moisture to escape.
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Use a dehumidifier to control indoor humidity.
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Ventilate bathrooms and kitchens after showers or cooking to reduce overall dampness in your home.
The Bottom Line
Drying your laundry indoors may seem like a small convenience, especially in colder months, but it can come with significant health risks — especially for those with respiratory conditions or weakened immune systems.
With simple changes like improved ventilation, using a dryer, or even just opening a window, you can protect your lungs, reduce the chance of mold growth, and improve your home’s overall air quality.
A fresh scent is nice — but fresh, breathable air is essential.