A recent study suggests that drying clothes indoors is not healthy; it causes excess humidity in the air.
We all face different types of risks to our health when we follow our daily schedule. Things like to engage in home activities, flying in planes, being exposed to climatic factors, and driving in cars all constitute different levels of risk. Some of them can be avoided while some you need to do otherwise would limit your ability to lead your lives the way you want. Moreover, you avoid some risks if you have an alternative option. Indoor air pollution is one of the most common risks to our health that you should do something about.
Also Read: Everybody should learn how to treat asthma
Those people who don’t have terrace, gardens, or even balconettes are forced to turn their lounges into laundry rooms. These families are putting their health at risk by drying clothes inside. In fact, the asthma society of Ireland has issued a warning letter about doing so.
According to recent studies, drying laundry in the home can be very harmful, especially if you have asthma. It has been found that clothes that put on drying frames or draped over warm radiators increase the moisture levels in the house up to 30%, which sparks dust mite and mold spore growth, posing a threat to asthma sufferers and those with weak immune system. This condition can cause potentially fatal lung infections.
According to Professor David Denning, who carried research with his team at the National Aspergillosis Center in Manchester suggests, one load of wet washing carries almost two liters of water, which is set free in the room in the form of moisture. He states, some people have a sufficiently healthy immune system to fight against fungal infections that grow in these humid conditions, while some are immune to these fungal infections. If we talk about asthma patients, then the problem can cause coughing and wheeze whereas, in people with other health problems like as cancer and AIDs, the fungus can cause pulmonary aspergillosis (a condition that causes damage to the lungs and sinuses).
Experts say, if possible, dry clothes outside, if not, then dry clothes in a tumble dryer in a well ventilated indoor space. Make sure that the place should be away from the bedroom and living areas.
Tumble drying tips include:
- While choosing a tumble dryer, make sure that you get one which uses less energy.
- Always switch to spin speed of your washing machine, you want clothes to be as dry as possible, so they need very less time in the tumble dryer.
- Before putting your clothes in the dryer, untangle everything as large knots of washing takes more time to dry.
- Make sure that you clean the filters regularly as blocked ones stop hot air from circulating properly which makes clothes longer to dry.
- It is necessary that you keep your tumble dryer in a well-ventilated area of your house leaving your bedroom and living room to prevent it from overheating.
- It is always best to buy a washing with tumble dryer along with a sensor that indicates when your clothes are dry and when to stop. This prevents the continuous use of the machine when there is no need.
Also Read: Understand allergy induced asthma for better treatment
Other tips include:
- While washing clothes, use a mix of water, vinegar, and soap.
- Do not store clothes in damp cupboards or avoid packing them too tightly in wardrobes
- Your home should be ventilated especially after cleaning, cooking, showers, and using the dishwasher. Make a habit of opening windows as often as you can to keep your home well ventilated.
Following these simple and useful tips could make a huge difference to your health.
