Why drying clothes indoors could be a recipe for mould and respiratory issues

The consequences of this were highlighted in a reel by content creator Jake, who mentioned, “Never hang dry your clothes indoors. That is the number one reason people have mould, especially in places with basements and laundry room.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jake | Not Another Health Guy (@notanotherhealthguy)

But how significant is the risk, and are there ways to mitigate it while still drying clothes indoors?

Dr Jagadish Hiremath, public health intellectual, says, “Drying damp clothes indoors significantly raises the humidity levels within the home, creating conditions ideal for mould growth. When clothes air-dry, the moisture they hold evaporates into the surrounding environment, increasing the water vapour in the air.”

Mechanism:

Increased Humidity: A single load of laundry can release up to 2 liters of water into the air during drying. This elevated moisture level creates the perfect environment for mould spores, which thrive in damp, humid conditions.

Condensation: In poorly ventilated spaces, the evaporated moisture settles on cold surfaces like walls, ceilings, or windows, creating damp patches that support mould growth.

Continuous Exposure: Regularly drying clothes indoors compounds the issue, leading to persistently high humidity levels and increasing the likelihood of mould colonisation.

“Research published in Building and Environment highlights that homes with a humidity level above 60% are more likely to experience mould growth, and drying clothes indoors can push humidity far beyond this threshold,” says Dr Hiremath.

Health risks

Mould exposure can lead to a range of health issues, particularly for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, allergies, or weakened immune systems. Some health risks, according to Dr Hiremath are:

Respiratory Problems

Inhaling mould spores can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure increases the risk of chronic respiratory conditions, including asthma.

Allergic Reactions

Mould spores can trigger allergies, causing symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rashes. People with mould allergies may experience heightened sensitivity with prolonged exposure.

Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity below 60%, and improve airflow by opening windows. (Source: Freepik)

Toxic Effects

Some mould species, such as Stachybotrys chartarum (black mould), produce mycotoxins, which can cause more severe effects like chronic fatigue, headaches, and immune suppression.

Impact on Vulnerable Groups

Infants, elderly individuals, and those with compromised immune systems are particularly at risk of developing infections or worsening health conditions due to mould exposure. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), indoor dampness and mould have been directly linked to an increase in respiratory infections and asthma prevalence.

Some effective strategies to safely dry clothes indoors without creating an environment conducive to mould

Dr Hiremath says that drying clothes indoors can be safe with proper strategies to minimize moisture buildup and ensure good ventilation. Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity below 60%, and improve airflow by opening windows, using exhaust fans, or choosing well-ventilated spaces like bathrooms or laundry areas. Heated drying racks, vented dryers, and smaller laundry loads can speed up drying while reducing humidity. Absorbent materials like silica gel or charcoal dehumidifiers can also help. Regularly inspect for mould, clean surfaces prone to condensation, and maintain indoor temperatures between 18–22°C to prevent dampness.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.