Why You Shouldn't Dry Bath Towels On A Radiator
If you don't have access to a dryer or you're trying to save money by drying your towels on your radiator, you may be doing more harm than good. When towels are hung over a radiator and left to dry, they often become stiff and develop a rough texture, and trying to dry off with them afterwards could feel uncomfortable. Because of the way the water from freshly-washed towels left on a radiator evaporates, the fibers of the towels stick together, creating that scratchy texture.
Using a radiator to dry towels or clothes can also end up costing you more money. Since radiators are designed to keep your home at a set temperature, covering them with a wet towel will make them produce heat for longer. This will increase your electric bill, and your house won't be able to heat properly. If you love to wrap a warm towel around yourself after a shower, investing in a heated towel rack is the safest bet.
Harms of drying laundry on a radiator
Besides raising your electric bill, drying laundry on your radiator can cause a host of other problems. When the water from the laundry is evaporated by the radiator, it doesn't disappear. It creates dampness and condensation, which can lead to mold growing in your home. Exposure to mold can cause health issues, including respiratory problems. Drying your clothes on the radiator can also lead to the development of aspergillus fungal spores, which can be dangerous, especially for those with conditions like asthma. Over time, the moisture can also cause damage to your home, such as rotten plaster and peeled wallpaper.
Radiators with an electric baseboard can pose a risk of fire. This is because electric radiators are more likely to overheat than other types of radiators. But, even so, no radiator (electric or not) is intended for anything to be laid over it.
Alternatives to drying towels on a radiator
Air drying your laundry is a great way to save money and help the environment, and there are plenty of methods that shouldn't cause mold or damage to your home. If you'd still like warm towels but want to avoid the radiator-related issue, towel warmers are a great alternative. It is best to use them in places with good ventilation, like near an open window, to avoid issues with condensation. If you find this still causes your towels to be rough after drying, you can try adding a ½ cup of white vinegar to your washing machine. The vinegar can help to keep the color of your towels vibrant and can also eliminate any extra detergent or fabric softener that's making your towels stiff.
Another good option is hanging your towels on a clothesline outside (if the weather permits). When air drying your laundry inside, whether you're hanging your towels on a rack or laying them flat, it's always a good idea to make sure that room has good ventilation. Ditching the radiator method of drying can help you save money and prevent you from dealing with costly repairs, potential health issues, and stiff towels.