Line drying clothes in winter is doable! If you're having a hard time, here are few simple tricks to make the process run smoother and more enjoyable. Trust me, I've tried these tricks!
Line Drying Clothes In Winter Is Possible!
I’ve been line drying clothes all year round, even during winter. I’ve found the method of freeze-drying really works for me. And, I simply love the idea of energy savings, the way we are reducing the effect on the Earth, and how our clothes smell great without the overwhelming smell of commercial fabric conditioner. I have to say I totally enjoy line drying clothes in winter, feeling the warmth of the sun and the tender breeze as I smooth clasp towels, tees, pants, and more. It’s mother nature’s job to dry and freshen up our clothes here in my homestead. How about letting her into yours, too?
1. Prepare Your Favorite Hot Winter Drinks
Before getting started, it is best to have something hot to warm you up. Here are some winter drinks for you to choose from, or simple hot tea or coffee will do.
2. Work Faster
One bed sheet or blanket is sufficient to freeze my hands so it's best to wear mitts or gloves, pull it outside, and toss it over the railing. If you're line drying, make sure to gather supplies, such as clothespins and baskets before getting started, and if you can carry all at one time, the better. This will save you time from being outside in freezing weather.
3. Hang Shirts By The Hemline
Use clothespins to hang shirts by the hemline, rather than by the shoulders. This avoids unusual bunching in the shoulders, which can become a pain to get rid of when the shirt has dried up.
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4. Avoid Crowding Your Lines
If you’re like me and just want to get the laundry done as fast as possible, and maybe, sometimes you do larger loads than you have room to hang it on. Fight the temptation and give your clothing room enough on the lines. Crowding can result in wrinkles and longer drying times, as well as weigh down the line, which could make your clothes drag to the ground.
5. Freshen Between Washings
If you have clothes that have been worn but aren't precisely dirty, just go ahead and hang it out on the line, and let it air out. For more freshening power, make an all-natural linen spray, spray some on, and let it dry. Double energy savings! How cool is that?
6. Bring It Inside Or Let It Stay Outside
Bring it inside by the end of the day or let it stay outside all night. These all depend on the thickness or size for your laundry and if you have spun it thoroughly or not. Check it and if you think it already feels lighter, you're done. Allow it to warm up a bit and fold.
7. Don't Forget To Smile
Don't forget to smile! I truly believe a smile will lighten up the load. There was one winter that I had my grandkids around and I let them help me during the line drying process. It was more fun than I imagined. Do it too, because you just turned yourself into a certified homesteader.
Want to see how to line drying cloth diapers inside in winter? Check out this video from MsDanaRyan:
A major part of homesteading is self-sufficiency, and one can never be self-sufficient if you are always relying on the latest technology. As a homesteader, I really find line drying enjoyable, easy, and absolutely effective. Thus, it's a method I am fond of no matter what the season is. I hope these tips help make laundry day this winter season a little simpler. Enjoy washing!
Did you find these line drying tips helpful? Will your try line drying clothes in winter? Let us know how it went in the comments section below.
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You forgot to mention that running the clothes line parallel to the equator in a sunny area helps.
What about drying them overnight in the winter? Is that productive, or will they just become iciclothes?
It takes a few days, but I just leave my clothes (jeans, shirts, hoodies, sweaters, underwear, socks … everything) on the line. Then I take them inside and fold/hang them and I’m done. It never gets above freezing in the winter here, so it’s no problem. I don’t even care if it snows. The wind will blow the snow off eventually. Just don’t be in a hurry.
I like the idea of freshening clothes between washing – what a good idea. I’ll try that this year. Thanks!
You have to loe the energy savings! Good for my wallet. Good for the environment. Win win.