Dryers are hard on the budget and the environment. Studies suggest a straightforward solution.

      A few years back, researchers at the City University of Hong Kong found that a single clothes dryer can release up to 120 million microfibers into the environment. When these microfibers are inhaled or ingested, particularly if they are made from synthetic materials, they can cause various health issues and carry additional pollutants.

      Now, new research indicates that the common drying appliance found in households adds significant amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and results in high electricity costs annually. These findings are quite revealing, as is the proposed solution.

      A significant source of cost and emissions

      According to a study by the University of Michigan’s School for Environment and Sustainability, over 80% of homes in the United States own a dryer, a figure that surpasses any other country globally. These dryers account for nearly 3% of a household’s electricity expenses each year.

      Collectively, they consume almost $7 billion in electricity costs nationwide, while also releasing 27 million tons of harmful carbon dioxide into the air due to energy production. So, what is the answer?

      Experts advocate returning to simpler methods. For example, line drying is a cost-free alternative that can save each household around $2,100 in operational expenses yearly compared to using a dryer.

      Some may wonder if choosing a dryer with a high energy efficiency rating could resolve these issues. However, it might not be necessary to replace an old dryer, as purchasing a new one could actually lead to greater long-term costs.

      An almost free solution

      Instead, a combined approach is recommended. “A mix of line drying and dryer usage has been found to be the second most economical and environmentally friendly option compared to upgrading to more efficient dryers,” the research team states.

      The environmental impact of these dryers can vary by region. For instance, in areas where electricity is mainly generated from fossil fuels, the ecological footprint is considerably greater. In contrast, regions with renewable energy sources, like hydroelectric power, have lower emissions.

      “Depending on the location, transitioning from a gas dryer to an electric dryer can lead to a reduction in emissions by over 90% or an increase of more than 220%,” the research team, whose findings are published in the journal Resources, Conservation and Recycling, explains.

      While not every household can entirely eliminate their dryer in favor of line drying—especially in small apartments where space is limited—there are still ways to implement positive changes that can make a difference. The study suggests that running dryers during non-peak hours, such as late at night, can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 8% each year.

      “You don’t need a large balcony or a spacious backyard,” says Zhu Zhu, the lead author of the research, citing their own experience of successfully line drying in a small apartment. “You’ll find you have more capacity than you think.”