Guide

Using a dehumidifier for drying clothes indoors

A dehumidifier can be a practical middle ground between air-drying and using a tumble dryer, especially if you can keep the laundry in one room and let the machine remove the moisture properly. The setup matters as much as the appliance.

Last reviewed: 16 April 2026 - UK-focused practical guide

Choose The Best Next Step

Use the route below that matches what is still unclear after reading the guide.

Check the costI want to know what the setup costs to runUse the running-cost calculator when the main unknown is daily or weekly dehumidifier cost.Compare methodsI am choosing between two lower-cost drying routesMove into the comparison page when the real decision is heated airer versus dehumidifier rather than setup technique.Check capacityI think the unit may be the wrong sizeUse the size guide when weak results may be caused by room volume or an undersized machine.

Plain-English summary

This works best when you treat it as a room setup, not just an appliance. Close the door, give the clothes breathing space, and expect slower drying in colder rooms.

What helps most

  • one closed room
  • space around the clothes
  • steady room temperature
  • the right unit size for the job

Where it can disappoint

  • large open spaces
  • very cold rooms
  • overloaded airers
  • expecting tumble-dryer speed

When it may still be worth it

Even when drying is slower, the gentler treatment for clothes and the lower running cost can still make it the better fit for many homes.

Best room examples

A spare bedroom, utility room or box room often works better than a large open-plan living area because the dehumidifier can control a smaller air volume and keep the moisture concentrated where it can remove it.

  • Closed door usually helps.
  • A small fan can help airflow around the clothes.
  • The rack should not be packed too tightly.

When another option may be better

If you need a big family load dry quickly for the next day, a tumble dryer may still be worth the extra cost. If you just want a low-cost way to help one rack of washing along, a heated airer can be simpler than setting up a dehumidifier.