Tumble Dryers Heat Air to Dry Clothes
The tumble dryers heat the air inside them to dry the laundry. This prevents clothes and textiles from becoming ruined due to moisture.
Ventilated tumble dryers require a vent to let out the heated air. This is essential to ensure that your tumble dryer will function efficiently and effectively.
Newer heat-pump operated models don't need a vent however they require a steady supply of cool air in order to function efficiently. This will help them run more efficiently and decrease the energy consumption.
Low temperatures
The low heat setting is used to shield delicate fabrics and sensitive materials from extreme heat. The setting uses spinning of the fabric to eliminate excess water rather than using the high temperature that dryers use when running a spin cycle. You can select the settings for your tumble dryer using the knob for program selection.
Certain garments might not be able to withstand any kind of heat, so you should always verify the care label on each piece of clothing before placing it in the dryer. Fabrics intended for dry cleaning should never be placed in the dryer. The heat can cause them to lose their shape and eventually become damaged. Other fabrics can be dried in a tumble dryer, but the temperature must be lower than that used for cotton clothes.
A low heat setting or gentle cycle is perfect for delicate or sheer fabrics, as well as for lace and chiffon. This setting uses a very small amount of heat which helps prevent the fabric from shrinking or warping and also reduces static. It's also a good option for activewear or workout clothes made of spandex or other elastic fabrics, since they are susceptible to melting and stretching when dried at higher temperatures.
Another heat setting to consider is the permanent press or wrinkle resistant setting. This setting creates a moderate temperature that is sufficient for most fabrics to be properly dry without inflicting damage. This is a great choice for cotton fabrics, like cotton t-shirts and bath towels, but it can also be used for other cotton items that would otherwise shatter in high temperatures.
Certain tumble dryers feature an option for a cotton setting' or cotton dry', that is designed for heavy cotton fabrics such as sheets and linens. This setting is appropriate for cotton clothing that won't easily shatter. However, it's typically recommended to use a 'delicate cycle' or a tumble-dry low cycle.
Medium heat
The medium heat setting is less intense than the high heat setting, which makes it suitable for a wide range of fabrics. Certain fabrics may shrink when dried at this temperature, so make sure to check the care label or the instructions of the manufacturer to determine the temperature recommended.
This setting will stop shrinkage of cotton clothes, towels and bed sheets, while preserving their texture, color and quality. The medium heat setting is also safe for most synthetic clothing, such as ones made of polyester. It's best not to dry these fabrics on this temperature if the fabric has specific instructions for drying and washing that recommend low or no temperature.
The high temperatures generated by the tumble dryer's medium temperature setting can damage other fabrics, including silk and wool. If you're using this setting, be sure to adhere to the instructions for care of the garment and use a mesh laundry bag to protect delicate fabrics from snags during the tumble. In addition, if the garment is embellished or has decorations that may be destroyed or melt during the drying process, you'll want to use a lower heat setting.
The high temperature of a tumbler can stretch or damage spandex and other workout clothes. The "sportswear" setting on many appliances will be suitable for these items as it helps maintain their shape and texture while saving energy.
Based on the dryer's brand and model, the automatic and timed dry settings can utilize different amounts of heat than the normal heat setting. The timed-dry option lets you choose how long your clothes should be dried in the dryer. The automatic or regular cycle uses a moisture sensor that determines whether the clothes are dry.
Some tumble dryers offer an option called 'cotton settings' that can be used to dry cotton garments like t-shirts and underwear. This setting is not recommended for delicate fabrics because it could cause them to shrink and lose their shape. It can also harm other types of fabrics.
High heat
Many tumble dryers have an extremely high temperature setting that is ideal for heavier cotton fabrics. This setting helps dry items faster and helps to prevent wrinkles, however it isn't recommended for delicate or delicately washed clothing since the high temperatures can cause them to shrink, fade, or lose their shape. For instance wool sweaters or silk dress should never be tumble dried because the high temperatures can damage the fabric. These garments should be dried with air to avoid shrinkage or damage and to preserve their softness and smoothness.
Another setting that is popular with tumble dryers is the low heat setting which is ideal for more delicate fabrics. The setting with the lowest heat is gentler on fabrics than the moderate heat setting and aids in reducing wear on fabrics. It also helps to preserve colors and minimizes fade. It's a great option for lingerie, knitwear, or spandex exercise clothes as well as sheer fabrics like chiffon and lace. The lower temperature settings can reduce allergens like pollen and pet dander, which can cause irritation or allergies.
The medium temperature tumble dryer setting is typically used for synthetics and shirts such as polyester. It's also a great choice for sheets, robes, towels, and winter coats. However, it's essential to read the care labels of these items because some might require a lower heat setting than others.
The heavy-duty cycle was designed for bulky items that can stand up to higher temperatures. This includes blankets, comforters and jeans. Also, towels, robes and winter coats. While heat pump tumble dryer is suitable for all fabrics, it's recommended to use a mesh bag or a pillowcase for drying these items to safeguard expensive or delicate clothing. Some manufacturers also suggest using a filter on the dryer vent to prevent hot air from hitting your clothes directly.
No heat
Tumble dryers use heat to stir and eliminate moisture from clothing. The dry air that is produced is either vented outside or gathered by a condenser or heat pump or tumbler with an external vent.
Each type of tumbler dryer has its pros, and cons. While all three types are effective at drying laundry, it's crucial to know the distinctions between low, high and no temperature settings to ensure you pick the right one for each load of clothing.
The highest temperature setting for your dryer is typically the high tumble setting, which is 130oF (52.2oC). This is ideal for clothes that require more heat to dry more quickly like cotton sweatshirts and beach towels from a family vacation. This is also the best setting for drying heavy items such as jeans and bulky sweaters. The high setting is ideal for bedding and towels which can handle the heat.
The setting for low tumble-dry typically is approximately 48oC (105oF) and is great for delicate, light fabrics such as knitwear or sheers. It is also great for workout clothes made of stretchy fabrics like spandex and Lycra. It's an excellent choice for bras and lingerie that are susceptible to being damaged by heat. It helps prevent fraying, fading and stretching.
Some tumble dryers have the option of not heating. This is usually at room temperature and is commonly referred to as an air fluff cycle. This is not recommended for most fabrics as it's specifically designed to help fluff up bedding and other bulky items such as winter coats in between washings. It's not advised for fabrics that aren't able to stand up to heat, as they will likely be damaged or wrinkled up by the lack of any heat.
Certain tumble dryers come with an anti-allergy mode that runs a bit warmer, at around 110oF (43oC). This is a great option for those with sensitive skin, as it helps to remove the dust particles and allergens. It's also a great option for people suffering from respiratory problems as it can assist to reduce wheezing and coughing caused by asthma and allergy symptoms.