Whether your dryer is kaput or you're looking for ways to save energy, drying clothes without a dryer isn't as hard as you might think.
Star-Shaped Drying Rack
This is the coolest looking drying rack we’ve ever seen, AND it’s completely DIYable! Ananda at A Piece of the Rainbow has complete how-to instructions with great pictures and a video.
She recommends a tablesaw for cutting the pieces of wood, but says a circular saw or jigsaw with a saw guide. Need to brush up on your circular saw skills? Here’s an excellent tutorial.
Photo: Courtesy of A Piece of the Rainbow
Crib Spring Drying Rack
How clever is this?! Paint an old crib spring, hang if from the ceiling and use it as a rack for drying clothes on hangers. Simple and inexpensive.Before you go to the thrift or second-hand store to look for a crib spring, check out this collection of 12 incredible projects made from repurposed materials. It may inspire to look for another item you can turn into something useful.
Photo: Courtesy of A Diamond in the Stuff
Heavy-Duty Drying Rack
This stainless steel rack folds flat against the wall when not in use, plus the length is adjustable from 43 to 59 inches. The extra length makes it perfect for drying comforters and blankets.When looking for how to dry clothes without a dryer, also consider other energy-saving measures like those on this list.
Photo: Courtesy of GENE
Laundry Care System
Pottery Barn offers a complete clothes and accessories organizing system based on a set of peg rails. You can customize the components based on your needs. One possible configuration for a laundry room is shown here, with the handy drying rack conveniently located near the washing machine.For DIY laundry room organizing tips, check out this collection of 20 of our favorites.
Photo: Courtesy of Pottery Barn
Keep It Simple
This braided stainless steel retractable clothes line takes only minutes to install and costs around $10. When it’s not in use, you’ll hardly know it’s there!And if you like simple, this instant drying rack is as simple as it gets!
Photo: Courtesy of Luckin
A Favorite in Great Britain
This is a Sheila Maid clothes drying rack and it’s been widely used in British homes for more than 100 years. It’s available in several lengths and with either four or six rails. The pully system, for raising and lowering the rack is included. Made in Scotland, the racks are shipped by a U.S. company that has a sister city relationship with the company that makes the racks.
Photo: Courtesy of Cottage Craft Works
Drying Rack for Delicates
When its arms are open, this compact drying rack looks a little like an octopus! The top hook goes over a shower curtain rod and the clips hold light items. When everything’s dry, fold it up and you can use it as a regular hanger.Check out this ingenious tip for keeping a tension rod from slipping.
Photo: Courtesy of Feijun
Double-Duty Radiator
Whenever it’s cold enough for radiators to be doing their job keeping your warm, they can also assist with drying wet garments. This isn’t a good way to dry an entire load of laundry, but damp mittens, hats and towels can be draped over most radiators for the sort term.If your radiators are unsightly and you’d rather cover them up, here are 12 ways to disguise them.
Old Fashioned Sunshine and a Nice Breeze
On a clear summer day, a clothesline hung between two trees or posts and a bucket of clothespins is really all you need. Bed linens are well suited for outdoor air drying but don’t limit yourself. Be sure to fasten everything well and keep an eye on the weather.While the laundry is air drying it’s a good time to do a little gardening. Here are some tips that make weeding and watering your garden easier.
