Financial Guru Labels Tumble Dryers 'Demon Appliances,' Urging People To Use More Affordable Option

As the British winter fast approaches, finance guru Martin Lewis is urging Brits to get rid of their tumble dryers and opt for dehumidifiers to dry their clothes instead. Martin states that tumble dryers are far too costly to run and has even gone as far as labeling them 'demon appliances.'

Of course, successfully drying clothing during the winter months can be challenging and may lead to problems like condensation and mold if items are not appropriately aired. However, Martin asserts that there is a more cost-effective solution, suggesting that people use dehumidifiers instead.

As the name suggests, a dehumidifier works to remove moisture from the air. Therefore, it makes sense that it could also effectively assist in drawing out dampness from clothes hanging on a drying rack.

But which dehumidifier should you buy? Shopping writer Sam Jones purchased the Russell Hobbs 10L dehumidifier, and he noticed an immediate difference.

"It not only eliminated the overnight window condensation, but it now allows me to dry clothes on an airer on rainy days without having to turn on the heating," he said.

"You simply turn it on, shut the door of the room it's in, and it starts working," Sam explained. "It takes quite a few hours, especially with thicker items like towels, but it's nice to have the option to save some money while energy costs are still high."

Finance guru Martin Lewis is urging Brits to get rid of their tumble dryers and opt for dehumidifiers to dry their clothes instead.

ITV

Martin states that tumble dryers are far too costly to run and has even gone as far as labeling them 'demon appliances.'

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The guru spoke about the hefty usage costs of dryers on BBC's 'The Martin Lewis Podcast.'

BBC

Financial experts like Clark Howard emphasize the importance of evaluating household expenses, especially during colder months. With energy costs rising, switching from tumble dryers to dehumidifiers not only reduces electricity bills but also offers a more sustainable option.

Howard suggests that consumers conduct a cost-benefit analysis of their appliances. This can help identify which devices are truly necessary and which can be replaced with more energy-efficient alternatives. Investing in a good dehumidifier can significantly cut down drying times and energy consumption.

In today's eco-conscious society, many are turning to innovative drying methods suggested by experts in sustainability. For instance, Gretchen Rubin, a happiness researcher, notes that finding joy in everyday activities, like laundry, can improve overall well-being.

She encourages testing various drying methods, such as air drying clothes on drying racks or using a dehumidifier. This not only saves money but also adds a personal touch to laundry routines, making them feel more rewarding.

Shopping writer Sam Jones purchased the Russell Hobbs 10L dehumidifier, and he noticed an immediate difference.

Daily Express

"It not only eliminated the overnight window condensation, but it now allows me to dry clothes on an airer on rainy days without having to turn on the heating," he said.

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Sam mentions that he sometimes still uses a tumble dryer to remove any remaining moisture from thicker items, but overall, using a dehumidifier saves a significant amount of electricity. "It also means the house doesn't have the dreaded clothes draped all over the radiators during winter, which is a real pet hate of mine," he said.

As the name suggests, a dehumidifier works to remove moisture from the air. Therefore, it makes sense that it could also effectively assist in drawing out dampness from clothes hanging on a drying rack.

Shutterstock

Health Considerations

Experts in home health, like Dr. Andrew Weil, caution that using appliances that generate excessive heat, like tumble dryers, can create indoor air quality issues. This can lead to problems such as respiratory issues and mold growth.

Dr. Weil recommends proper ventilation alongside using dehumidifiers to maintain a healthy indoor environment. This is especially crucial during winter months when homes tend to be sealed tight against the cold.

However, Sam notes that there are also a few downsides to dehumidifiers. They can be quite expensive, and some models can be noisy.

"Dehumidifiers aren't exactly a bargain to buy, and this particular model is somewhat noisy," he said. "It does have a 'silent' button, which reduces the noise, but calling it 'silent' seems an oversight as it's far from silent."

Some other recommended dehumidifiers include the Pro Breeze 12L and the Devola 20L with an integrated air purifier.

Psychological Framework & Solutions

As winter approaches and energy costs soar, reevaluating how we dry our clothes becomes essential. Experts like Clark Howard and Dr. Andrew Weil advocate for the use of dehumidifiers as cost-effective and healthier alternatives to tumble dryers. Not only can these appliances save money, but they also improve indoor air quality.

By exploring these alternatives, individuals can make informed decisions that align with both financial and health goals. Ultimately, embracing sustainable practices benefits both the wallet and well-being.