9 Ways to Make Your Dryer Dry Faster

A washer and dryer can make laundry day a breeze—unless your dryer isn't functioning properly. There could be many reasons why your dryer is running more slowly than usual, whether it's the way you load the items, the settings you choose, or the condition of the appliance. If your clothes and linens are coming out damp or taking noticeably longer to dry, it’s a sign you might need to change things up.

From quick adjustments to routine maintenance, these simple tips can help your dryer run more efficiently, making your items dry faster and speeding up your laundry routine.

1. Use the Spin Cycle

One of the easiest ways to speed up drying time is to remove as much moisture as possible from the freshly washed items before placing them in the dryer. Most washing machine settings have a spin cycle designed to do just that. Using a high or extra-high spin cycle, you can extract excess water so your dryer won’t have to work as hard or as long. A lower spin setting (or air drying) may be needed for delicates, but for most everyday items, try opting for a higher spin cycle to see if it shortens drying time.

2. Shake Out Items After Washing

It’s tempting to toss a bundle of wet clothes, sheets, or towels directly from the washer into the dryer, especially if you’re in a hurry. However, taking a minute to shake out and untangle each item can significantly affect their drying time. This simple step keeps items from clumping together, allowing the dryer air to circulate more freely and making everything dry faster.

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3. Keep the Filters Clean

A clogged lint trap—or filter—is a common cause of slow drying times. When the filter is full of lint, it restricts airflow and makes the dryer work harder and longer to complete the job. Make it a habit to remove lint after every dry cycle, or at least before starting the next one. Occasionally, use a flexible lint brush or a crevice vacuum attachment to clean the lint trap slot. This will speed up drying time, improve energy efficiency, and reduce the risk of a dryer fire.

If you regularly clean the lint trap but still notice slower-than-normal drying times, check if the dryer vent hose is clogged or kinked. Over time, lint and debris can accumulate in the hose, blocking airflow and becoming a fire hazard. Regularly cleaning the vent ensures hot air escapes properly, speeding up the drying process and reducing the risk of overheating.

4. Dry Similar Fabrics Together

Not all fabrics dry at the same rate. When you mix bulky towels with lightweight pajamas, the dryer will keep running until the heaviest items are completely dry (even though your pajamas were ready well before). To achieve more even drying and cut down on unnecessarily long drying times, sort your laundry by fabric type or weight. For example, dry towels and bedding separately from garments, which are generally thinner and smaller. Alternatively, try air-drying some of the heavier items for a half-hour before adding them to the dryer to minimize their dampness.

5. Avoid Overcrowding the Dryer

Stuffing all your wet laundry into the dryer might seem like a time-saver, but it actually has the opposite effect. An overloaded dryer leads to reduced airflow and, therefore, extended dry times. Aim to fill the drum only two-thirds of the way to maximize drying performance. This will allow enough room for items to tumble more easily, resulting in faster dry times.

6. Select the Correct Dryer Setting

You might think high heat can speed up the drying process, but that isn't always the case. Some fabrics dry quicker on medium heat, or medium heat might be necessary to prevent shrinkage or damage. Try experimenting with different heat levels depending on the type of clothing or linens you’re drying to find the best balance between speed and efficiency.

7. Use Dryer Balls

Wool or rubber dryer balls are specifically designed to reduce drying time. If you haven’t started using them yet, they're worth a try. They work by separating damp items in the dryer, allowing hot air to flow better. These mini miracle workers also help to reduce static and wrinkles, and they’re more eco-friendly than one-time-use dryer sheets. If you don’t have dryer balls on hand, a clean tennis ball can serve as a substitute.

8. Toss in a Dry Towel

If you’re in a rush, try a trick with something readily available: a clean, dry towel. Adding a towel to wet laundry in the dryer will absorb excess moisture, potentially reducing drying time. Remember to remove the towel from the dryer after about 15 or 20 minutes to keep it from adding moisture back into the load.

9. Avoid Opening the Dryer Door

Hot air escapes every time you open the dryer door during a cycle, causing the dryer to work harder to regain heat. If you need to check on your load, do it quickly to minimize heat loss. This simple habit is similar to minimizing opening the refrigerator door during a blackout to keep the cold air in.