6 Things You Never Knew Your Dryer Could Do
Your dryer isn’t just for drying clothes; it’s a secret multitasking machine! While most people think of it as a one-trick appliance, it actually has some surprising uses that can make your life easier. From tackling wrinkles without ironing to fluffing up pillows and even freshening up smelly shoes, your dryer is capable of much more than you realize. Get ready to unlock its full potential with these six unexpected dryer tricks!
Fluff and Refresh Pillows
If your pillows have gone flat, your dryer can help bring them back to life. Toss them in on a low or air-dry setting along with a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls. The movement will help redistribute the filling, making your pillows feel fluffy and comfortable again.
This method also works well for removing dust mites and odors. Just be sure to check the care label first, as some pillows, like those made of memory foam, shouldn’t go in the dryer.
Remove Wrinkles Without Ironing
Hate ironing? Your dryer can be a lifesaver when it comes to getting wrinkles out of clothes. Toss a wrinkled shirt or dress into the dryer with a damp washcloth or a couple of ice cubes and run it on medium heat for about 10 minutes. The steam from the moisture will help smooth out wrinkles, leaving your clothes looking fresh and ready to wear with no ironing board required.
This trick works wonders for last-minute outfit fixes, especially when you’re short on time. It’s also a great way to refresh clothes that have been sitting in a drawer or suitcase without needing a full wash.
Speed Up Drying for Other Items
Need to dry something in a hurry? Your dryer can help speed up the process for wet towels, jeans, or other thick fabrics. Throw in a dry bath towel along with the damp laundry and run the dryer as usual. The towel helps absorb moisture, cutting down drying time significantly.
This trick is especially handy when you need to dry clothes quickly before heading out. Just remove the towel about halfway through to prevent it from adding unnecessary bulk.
Deodorize Smelly Shoes
Nobody likes stinky shoes, but your dryer can help freshen them up. Place a couple of dryer sheets inside each shoe, then put them in the dryer on a low heat or air-dry setting for 10–15 minutes. The heat and fragrance will help eliminate odors, leaving your shoes smelling much fresher.
For an even deeper clean, try placing your shoes inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to prevent them from tumbling too hard. This works best for canvas or fabric shoes; avoid drying leather or suede to prevent damage.
Remove Lint from Sweaters
Your lint roller isn’t the only tool for tackling lint-covered clothes. If your sweater or dark clothing is covered in pet hair or lint, toss it in the dryer with a dryer sheet for about 10 minutes on a no-heat or air-dry cycle. The movement will help lift off excess fuzz, leaving your clothes looking cleaner.
This hack is perfect for freshening up coats, scarves, and other items that tend to attract lint but don’t need a full wash. It’s a simple way to keep your wardrobe looking polished without extra effort.
Warm Up Clothes and Blankets
Nothing beats the comfort of warm clothes or a toasty blanket on a cold day. Your dryer can be your best friend when it comes to adding a little extra coziness. Toss your outfit or a blanket into the dryer for a few minutes on low heat, and enjoy the warmth when you put them on.
This trick is especially nice on chilly mornings when you don’t want to leave the comfort of your bed. Just be careful not to overheat delicate fabrics by sticking to low or medium settings to avoid damage.
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Your dryer is more versatile than you might think! From removing wrinkles to refreshing pillows and speeding up drying time, these simple hacks can make everyday tasks easier. Next time you’re in a pinch, remember that your dryer can do more than just dry clothes; it can help you solve all sorts of household challenges with minimal effort.
Charlie Golsley
