Question 1

Should I hang my washing out today?

Accepted Answer

Hang it out if humidity is below 60%, there is a light breeze, the temperature is above 10°C and no rain is due for the next few hours. Any one of those failing badly is usually enough to keep the load indoors.

Question 2

Is today a good day to dry clothes outside?

Accepted Answer

A good drying day means humidity under about 60%, a breeze of 8 to 15 mph, temperature above 10°C, and no rain in the next few hours. Hit all four and a normal load is dry in two to four hours.

Question 3

What humidity is too high to dry clothes outside?

Accepted Answer

Above 70% relative humidity, outdoor drying gets unreliable. Above 80% it mostly stops working, and thick items like towels and jeans may still be damp after a full day on the line.

Question 4

Can you dry clothes outside in winter?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and often better than people expect. Cold air holds less moisture, so a crisp, bright, breezy winter day can dry a wash beautifully. The days to avoid are the mild, damp, still ones, not the cold ones.

Question 5

How long does washing take to dry outside?

Accepted Answer

On a good drying day, two to four hours for most of a load. Thin cotton and synthetics can be done in an hour; towels, jeans and bedding often need five or more, and are what decides whether you get it all in before evening.

Question 6

Can clothes dry outside without sun?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sunshine speeds drying but is not required. Dry air and a steady breeze will dry a full load on a completely overcast day, often faster than bright sun with no wind at all.

The questions people actually ask about drying washing outside