New controlled laundry-drying tests show how pairing an energy-efficient dehumidifier with a cooling fan can cut indoor drying time from 20 hours to just 2, with a total running cost of 14p.
Dehumidifier experts Meaco ran the tests, pairing an energy-efficient dehumidifier with a cooling fan, and it showed households can cut indoor drying time by more than half, reduce energy use and protect homes from damp and mould.
“People are being told to dry clothes indoors in all sorts of ways, but very few sources explain what actually speeds things up," says Chris Michael, CEO of Meaco.
"Our aim with these tests was simple: show how airflow and humidity really behave in a normal home so households can make decisions that save both time and money.”
Since energy prices spiked in 2022, households have looked for cheaper ways to dry laundry indoors without relying on a costly tumble dryer. Even in 2025, prices remain far higher than in 2021, so it is no surprise that people are searching for clearer guidance.
Much of the information online overlooks the impact of humidity, airflow and the hidden risks of drying clothes inside. Meaco conducted its own repeatable tests to compare drying time, energy use and indoor conditions.
See Meaco's full range of dehumidifiers here.
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The hidden cost of natural drying
Natural drying may appear free, but the rising humidity tells a different story. During the tests, humidity climbed above 68%, the point at which the risk of mould increases.
Clothes can take so long to dry at these levels that musty smells become a risk, which often leads to rewashing and increased energy costs.
In addition, higher moisture levels increase heating costs because damp air is more expensive to warm.
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