‘This gadget could genuinely replace your tumble dryer’: the best heated airers – tested
Heated airers claim to dry your clothes without costing the earth in energy.
By The Guardian
A Guardian test found heated clothes airers can significantly reduce reliance on tumble dryers and household radiators.
The review tested 19 bestselling heated airers over two years, including covered models and winged racks. The assessment looked at how well the appliances dried clothes and whether they could offer a practical alternative to using a tumble dryer.
The reviewer said the experience led to a tumble dryer being taken to the dump and reduced use of radiators for drying laundry.
Heated airers have become increasingly popular as households look for cheaper ways to dry clothes indoors. They use heated bars to warm garments on the rack, with covered designs intended to retain heat around the washing.
The review said some models had sold out quickly after reaching shops, while owners described them as “life-savers” and “gamechangers”.
The appliances are generally quieter than tumble dryers, although drying times depend on the amount and type of laundry, the design of the airer and the surrounding conditions.
The Guardian’s comparison included different styles rather than focusing on one type of product. Covered airers were tested alongside open, winged racks, allowing their performance and practicality to be compared.
Its conclusion was that a heated airer can dry washing effectively while using less energy than a tumble dryer in some circumstances. The review also found they could reduce the need to turn on household heating simply to help clothes dry.
The article was published on 18 October 2024 and formed part of The Guardian’s product testing coverage.