eco-strata

Admittedly, trying to dry laundry without using a clothes dryer can be a challenge in a multi-family dwelling. Issues such as slow drying, humidity build-up and bylaws that restrict residents from drying laundry on patios and outdoor spaces are just some of the barriers. Use of dryer racks or balls will help to minimize clothes dryer use, or at least make it more efficient. 

Drying racks

Small, foldable drying racks are very convenient for drying laundry in well-ventilated areas, particularly in the summertime when it is warm and sunny out. Using them saves energy, and reduces the electric bill. These racks are often discrete enough to be placed on a deck without attracting attention, but if this is not permitted in the bylaws of the building, then a second-best alternative would be to keep the rack just inside the unit—so you still benefit from sun and wind. Air-drying laundry also reduces wear-and-tear on fabrics, and decreases dryer-vent cleaning. 

There is a growing movement across the Lower Mainland and the rest of Canada dedicated to drying laundry naturally such as Let’s Hang Out Canada.

Dryer balls

Dryer balls are an effective way of getting laundry to dry faster (5 – 10% savings in drying time), thus reducing energy consumption. These spiky rubber balls fluff out laundry as it spin dries. They’re readily available across the Lower Mainland.