As we move into the colder months, many of us will now be moving our washing indoors and using tumble dryers to ensure our clothes and linens stay warm and dry.

Across the UK, tumble dryers have become an indispensable appliance, with 62 per cent of British households now owning a machine, but have you ever wondered how long it takes for a tumble dryer to dry your clothes efficiently? 

In this article, we’ll be answering this often-asked question, exploring the factors that influence drying time, why your dryer might take longer than expected, and giving some tips to help your appliance work more efficiently.

How long does a tumble dryer need to dry clothes?

The time it takes for your tumble dryer to completely dry your clothes will vary depending on a number of factors.

The size of the load, the type of fabric and the dampness of the clothes are all significant contributors. 

The average drying cycle is between 30 to 45 minutes, but it can extend to an hour (or longer) if you are drying a larger load, such as bedding or thicker fabrics, such as towels. 

On the other hand, more delicate fabrics will take as little as 15 minutes to dry, as any longer risks damaging them. 

The best way to estimate how long a tumbler dryer will take is to check the dryer's user manual. 

Most manufacturers provide guidelines for achieving the optimal drying time with different load sizes and fabrics.

Why does my dryer take two hours to dry clothes?

If you’re finding that your tumble dryer is consistently taking longer than you’d like to dry your clothes, the problem could be one of the following:

Overloading 

One of the most common reasons people find themselves waiting longer for their clothes to dry is from overloading the machine. Too many clothes can restrict the airflow, making it harder for warm air to circulate efficiently. 

Blockages

If your lint filter or exhaust vent is clogged, the airflow may be obstructed, reducing the dryer’s efficiency. By following the manufacturer's instructions, regularly cleaning the filters and ensuring the vent remains clear, your dry time should decrease.

Incorrect setting

By using the wrong setting, your drying cycle can accidentally be extended. Always check the manufacturer's instructions and use the correct setting for your load size and fabric. 

Old or malfunctioning dryer

In some instances, your dryer may be experiencing technical problems due to its age or a malfunction. If this happens, your dryer can sometimes take longer to dry clothes, so it is important to check your warranty, have it serviced, and, if needed, consider upgrading to a newer model.  

What helps a tumble dryer dry clothes faster?

If you are looking to decrease your drying time, there are steps you can take to help your tumble dryer work more efficiently:

Separate laundry

Spending a few extra minutes sorting through your laundry and separating loads into similar fabrics can help your dryer work more efficiently. 

Similar fabrics will have similar drying times; by separating them, you won’t find yourself sorting through a mixture of dried and damp clothing. 

Dryer balls

Dryer balls are a tried and tested way of dramatically reducing drying times. As they circulate through the dryer, they agitate clothes so they aren’t moving around in one damp ball. This helps to improve airflow and reduce drying time. 

Find out more about our tumble dryers

If you’re looking to buy a new tumble dryer or upgrade your current machine to make your laundry routine more efficient this winter, why not explore our range available at Home Feeling?

Since 2023, we have been proud to provide high-quality household appliances to customers across the UK and have a selection of tumble dryers to cater to your needs and preferences.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact our team today on support@homefeeling.co.uk or give us a call on 01543 228622.