Save Money and the Planet by Air Drying
Imagine saving thousands of dollars while also helping the environment—all by making one small change in your laundry routine. A new study from the University of Michigan suggests that switching from using a traditional clothes dryer to air drying could lead to significant savings in both money and carbon emissions. With dryers consuming an estimated 3% of the residential energy budget in the U.S., researchers have found that simple behavioral changes could be more impactful than relying on technological advancements to reduce energy use.
The Hidden Costs of Clothes Dryers
Most American households don’t think twice about throwing their freshly washed laundry into a dryer. In fact, more than 80% of U.S. homes own one, compared to fewer than 30% of households in South Korea and just over 40% in Germany. But this convenience comes at a cost. Dryers collectively consume over $7 billion worth of energy each year, emitting more than 27 million tons of carbon dioxide.
The research, conducted at the University of Michigan’s School for Environment and Sustainability, analyzed the financial and environmental impact of different drying methods. Lead author Zhu Zhu, now a doctoral student at Purdue University, highlighted that air drying—not using a machine at all—is the most effective way to cut back on both energy costs and carbon emissions. Over the typical lifespan of a dryer, air drying alone could save a household $2,100 and prevent more than three tons of carbon emissions.
The Power of Simple Behavioral Changes
The study reinforces a crucial idea: small lifestyle adjustments can result in substantial environmental benefits. With climate change gaining global attention, solutions often focus on advancing technology. However, this research suggests that changing habits might be just as powerful.
Even if a household doesn’t completely eliminate dryer use, incorporating air drying alongside partial dryer use proved to be the second most cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach. Surprisingly, investing in more energy-efficient dryers didn’t always result in financial savings over time. This underscores an important point: relying solely on improved appliances may not always be the best way to reduce energy consumption.
Regional Differences in Energy Impact
The study also found that where you live affects how much impact your dryer has. In areas that rely heavily on coal for power, using an electric dryer results in significantly higher emissions. On the flip side, in regions where renewable energy plays a larger role, emissions are much lower. In fact, switching from a gas dryer to an electric one can either reduce emissions by more than 90% or increase them by over 220%, depending on the energy grid.
This highlights the complex relationship between household appliance use and broader energy infrastructure. While transitioning to a cleaner energy grid is a long-term goal, individuals can take action sooner by choosing air drying as a sustainable alternative.
Addressing Concerns About Air Drying
Some people hesitate to switch to air drying, believing that their climate isn’t suitable or that their indoor space is too small. However, researchers emphasize that air drying can work even in compact apartments. Zhu, who lived in a small apartment throughout his college years, explained that all you need is a space that isn’t overly humid or cold—your laundry will dry naturally.
Another common complaint about air drying is that it can leave clothes feeling stiff. But the study suggests a simple solution: running clothes in the dryer for just a few minutes after air drying can help soften fabrics without requiring a full drying cycle. This minor adjustment can further reduce energy use while maintaining the benefits of air drying.
Other Ways to Reduce Drying Emissions
For those who aren’t ready to completely eliminate dryer use, there are still small changes that can make a difference. One notable strategy is running dryers during off-peak hours, such as at night. The study found that this shift alone can reduce emissions by 8%, as energy demand on the grid is lower during these times.
This research also highlights a broader question: do all conveniences we rely on truly add value to our lives? As study co-author Shelie Miller puts it, “The lowest carbon option is always the thing that you don’t do.” Do we need clothes to be immediately dry, or can we find alternatives that reduce both costs and environmental impact?
The Bigger Picture: A Shift in Mindset
This study’s findings align with larger conversations about consumer behavior and sustainability. While many discussions focus on developing new technologies, it is important to consider cultural and habitual changes as well. Why do Americans use dryers far more than other nations? How did home design and lifestyle expectations make dryers seem indispensable?
Looking at sustainability from both technological and behavioral perspectives allows for greater impact. While innovations such as more energy-efficient appliances are valuable, the simplest and most cost-effective solution—air drying—has been widely overlooked in the U.S.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the study serves as a reminder that small, everyday choices can have a profound impact on both our finances and the environment. Air drying clothes is a simple, nearly cost-free change that reduces energy costs, lowers carbon emissions, and, with minor adjustments, can be just as convenient as using a dryer.
If sustainability and saving money are priorities, then it’s time to reconsider the role of dryers in our daily routines. By making small shifts in behavior, we can collectively reduce our carbon footprint while keeping more money in our pockets. And sometimes, the best innovations aren’t new technologies—they’re rediscovering old habits that work just as well.
To read the original study, visit University of Michigan.
