An expert has urged homeowners not to dry clothes on a radiator – as tempting as it can be, it can cause a whole host of issues and fire safety is just one of them
Experts have warned people to not put wet clothes on radiators to dry – as although it may be a quick fix, it could be causing damage to our health.
Drying clothes in winter can be a struggle, especially if you don’t have a tumble dryer to use, so popping them over the radiator while hot can be tempting. However, Nancy Emery, radiator expert at Only Radiators warned it can cause all whole host of issues as the levels of condensation will rise.
Not only will it become a breeding ground for mould, but it can cause flu-like symptoms too. She said: “The problem with drying clothes on radiators is that it leads to higher amounts of condensation due to the lack of airflow from having your radiators covered, which leaves moisture lingering in your rooms, and that’s when the issues start to arise.
“All of that water will then ride along an air current until it sticks to the first cold surface it meets, creating the perfect environment for mould to grow. She explained how it will increase the amount of condensation inside due to the wet clothes releasing moisture, and highlighted that the “amount of water can be equal to litres”.
As the moisture is released, it has to go somewhere and can form into nasty mould growth. Because of this, it can bring on flu-like symptoms, something we all try and avoid in winter.
Mould can become harmful if it’s not treated, and Nancy explained: “You may also experience a runny nose, irritated skin and red eyes. Worryingly, for those feeling particularly tired with developing flu-like symptoms, it’s possible that they could have mould-induced aspergillosis hiding inside their respiratory system and not even know.”
Those with respiratory issues already will be affected by mould growth as it can make health issues worse. The radiator pro stated that it affects people with “pre-existing conditions” such as asthma because of the “mould-producing allergens”, “irritants” and “toxic substances” that are present.
It can be frustrating when it feels impossible to get clothes to dry in winter. As you can’t just leave them outside to dry, Nancy urges people to “take steps inside” to stop the risk of mould and condensation growing. She suggests keeping windows open for ventilation, and if you have to put something on the radiator to dry, she advises it should be a radiator under a window “to prevent mould”.
The expert shared that a good resolution for drying clothes inside can be with an extractor fan. She further detailed: “Well-maintained and cleaned extractor fans will ventilate a room beautifully. An extractor brings fresh air from outside into an enclosed space, it works like a window to aid circulation. Often found in kitchens and bathrooms, ventilators can be fitted in any room with the help of a professional.”
