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UK Households Turn to Dehumidifiers as High Energy Costs Curb Tumble Dryer Use

Advice now highlights lower‑running‑cost drying because tumble dryers account for a notable share of home energy use.

Overview

  • Energy Trust figures say laundry appliances take about 14% of household energy, with some tumble dryer cycles costing up to £1.76.
  • Martin Lewis recommends dehumidifiers at roughly 5p per hour to cut bills, noting the upfront purchase, with basic models available from around £25.
  • Members of a Mrs Hinch Facebook group report pairing an airer with a dehumidifier dries loads in about four hours and, for some, faster than their tumble dryer.
  • A Daily Mirror trial of the JML DriBUDDI (£79) found fresher‑smelling laundry but slower drying and an estimated running cost of about 32p per hour.
  • Public guidance discourages drying clothes on radiators due to raised indoor humidity, mould risks and musty odours.