Clothes Dryers: Pros, Cons, and Maintenance Tip

Many people consider that it’s essential to own a clothes dryer, and it’s not hard to see why. These appliances help you dry a significant amount of laundry. 

And while the initial investment is noticeable, people who use them find it hard not to cherish their new “toys”. But for all intents and purposes, there are a few aspects regarding clothes dryers that you should note if you already have or plan on purchasing one in the future.

The Pros of Owning a Clothes Dryer

Right now, let’s focus on the good things that a clothes dryer can achieve. It’s important to put things into perspective so that you can judge for yourself if the benefits outweigh the downsides or vice versa.

Dries Anything Fast

The main attraction of getting a tumble dryer is its ability to dry any piece of laundry in a couple of seconds. 

It brings so much convenience to the table that many people couldn’t even imagine their life without one. Furthermore, the ability to wash clothes any time of the day and be able to wear them right as they get out from the dryer is extremely appealing.

Reduces Waiting and Effort

If you like to keep busy with housework and other tasks, a tumble dryer helps you focus on the things you have to do.

Also, speaking of effort, clothes that were dried in the machine are far easier to iron than laundry that has been air-dried.

Offers More Space

Do you constantly find yourself filling up the soiled clothes basket or having to arrange pieces of clothing in a certain way on a wire dryer?

If so, a tumble dryer might be just what you need. Since there’s no more effort involved in the process of drying clothes, you might find it easier to wash a few loads per day and get rid of all the dirty laundry in an instant.

The Downsides of Owning a Clothes Dryer

Now let’s get to the nitty-gritty of things. Clothes dryers, like all appliances, have certain cons that might want to make you rethink your buying decision. 

It’s important to be aware of these cons to prevent the regret of buying something that doesn’t hold up to your expectations.

It costs a lot

The main reason why you won’t find a tumble dryer inside every household is the price. Even cheaper models are still pretty expensive for a significant portion of the population.

But is the cost worth it? Not for everyone, as you can imagine. Some people prefer to air dry their laundry because it allows their clothes more breathability and keeps the detergent’s fragrance intact for longer. This brings us to our next point:

Air Drying Is Much More Gentle

It’s not uncommon for tumble dryers to tear into a piece of clothing’s fabrics. Air drying, on the other hand, doesn’t present this issue.

Even if you own a dryer, it’s far better to leave embroidered dresses on a wire dryer. You should also consider your dryer’s manual to see which fabrics the producer doesn’t recommend putting inside.

Tumble Dryers Require Maintenance

Like with all appliances, you have to be prepared for that dreadful day when the dryer will require maintenance.

Fortunately, you can save money by choosing to fix it yourself. But even so, some people might prefer to leave the handy work to a professional.

Clothes Dryer Maintenance Tips

You should remove the screen from your dryer, wipe away the lint with a soft fabric, and put everything back in place before or after a drying cycle.

On a monthly basis, wipe down the dryer’s interior even if there are no visible signs of dirt or sediment.

Clean around the dryer every three months because moisture, dirt, and lint accumulate more quickly than you might think.

Inspect and clean the vent system at least once per year, especially if you have pets that leave fur all over the place.

The Bottom Line

Choosing a clothes dryer should be far easier now that you know all the pros and cons of the appliance. Good luck!