The Challenge: Air-dry your laundry using a clothesline or drying rack instead of a tumble dryer.
This small change supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, which aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. By reducing the use of energy-intensive appliances at home, you contribute to global energy conservation efforts and help lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Why It Matters
Tumble dryers are among the highest energy-consuming appliances in households. Air-drying your clothes can make a significant difference:
- A typical electric dryer uses about 3.3 kWh per load.
- Air-drying can save around 1,000 kWh annually for an average household.
- That translates to a reduction of approximately 700 kg of carbon dioxide emissions per year.
Air-drying also protects your clothes. It reduces wear and tear from heat, keeping fabrics stronger and lasting longer.
Spring and Summer Advantage
As the weather warms up, spring and summer offer the perfect opportunity to air-dry clothes outdoors. Longer daylight hours, warmer temperatures, and natural breezes make drying faster and more efficient. Sunlight even acts as a natural disinfectant—great for freshening up linens and clothes without extra chemicals or energy.
If you live in a region with mild spring conditions, start by drying lighter garments like shirts or pillowcases outdoors, then gradually expand. Summer’s consistent sun can handle heavier loads like towels and jeans with ease.
One Small Action You Can Take
- Set up a clothesline in your yard or balcony, or use a foldable drying rack near a window indoors.
- Hang clothes promptly after washing to prevent wrinkles and make drying more efficient.
- Choose sunny, breezy spots whenever possible to speed up drying time and enjoy that fresh, clean smell.
Caution and Considerations
- If you live in a humid climate, be sure to dry clothes in a well-ventilated space to avoid dampness or mildew.
- For those with pollen allergies, be cautious when drying clothes outdoors during high pollen days—check the local pollen forecast and opt for indoor drying as needed.
Take the Challenge
This week, try skipping the dryer. Start with just one or two loads and air-dry them instead. As the seasons change, so can your habits—spring and summer are the ideal times to embrace this energy-saving lifestyle shift.
By making this easy switch, you’re reducing household energy use, cutting emissions, and extending the life of your clothes—all while supporting SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy.
