Plus all of the everyday items you should never put in the dryer.
Well, at least we thought.
Getting Started
Read the manual before getting started.
Credit: Hero Images/Getty Images
As with any home appliance, options can vary slightly by make and model.
For dryers, it’s critical to learn the heat levels and timing options unique to your machine.
Check the lint filter before starting a load.
Loading the Dryer
Shake out each piece before placing it in the dryer.
This is the first line of defense for a wrinkle-free load.
Don’t overload the dryer.
Consider drying different fabric types in different loads.
If you’ve washed different types of fabrics together, they may need to dry separately.
Undergarments and hand towels, for example, may need different dryer parameters.
Add a dryer sheet.
Drop in a sheet to add softness and remove static cling.
They can also add a nice, fresh scent to your clothes.
Select a proper dryer cycle and start the dryer.
While this will depend on your specific dryer’s controls (remember that manual we told you to read?
), keep in mind that not everything needs high heat.
It can lead to dull colors,shrinkage, and general damage.
Consider a regular cycle if cotton makes up most of your load.
If you have mostly synthetic or permanent-press fabrics to dry, a permanent-press cycle may be your best bet.
Avoid snags and shrinkage, not to mention a tangled mess, by air-drying.
Wool.Blankets and sweaters made from wool will shrink and lose shape if subjected to excessive heat.
Check your garment tag for proper cleaning and drying instructions.
Head to the dry cleaner with your velvet pieces.
Don’t set yourself up for a snag or tear.
High heat can also set in wrinkles on delicate fabrics that are extremely difficult to remove.
There’s little that’s more useless than a shapeless bra.
Subjecting these undergarments to high heat can cause the fabric to lose form.
Purses, bags, and backpacks.
Unless the bag is completely made from cotton, avoid tossing it in the dryer.
High heat can warp or melt your bag.
You’ve probably paid a pretty penny for running shoes with the right support and cushioning.
Throwing them in the dryer can destroy this cushioning while weakening adhesives and shrinking rubber soles.
Keep all of the mesh and padding intact by avoiding a heated tumble.
Let these pieces air dry.
This is especially true if your pillows have delicate embellishments.
Try hanging these to dry instead.
Hang or fold promptly to avoid wrinkles that can set in while fabrics are warm.
