One Simple Wash-Cycle Adjustment Can Help Bed Sheets Dry Faster Indoors

It may not always be needed, laundry specialists say

Drying laundry in poor weather can be challenging, but bed sheets create an even bigger problem. They are often too bulky to fit neatly on drying racks, and when it is raining outside and there is no tumble dryer, there may be few alternatives.

One simple tweak to the wash cycle can reduce drying time, whether you are using a dryer or hanging items indoors, and it takes almost no extra effort or expense.

Here, laundry experts explain why this easy step is worth trying and how it helps.

Why an Extra Spin Cycle Can Help Bed Sheets Dry Faster

This laundry shortcut is straightforward: running an extra spin cycle helps remove more water before sheets are hung up or placed in a dryer.

“An extra spin cycle is one of the ways to cut down on drying time, especially with larger items like bed sheets,” says Rechelle Balanzat, CEO and Founder of Juliette. “The spin cycle uses force to pull out extra water from the fabric, so running it a second time helps get rid of moisture that might still be stuck in the sheets.

“The less water left in the fabric, the less time your sheets need in the dryer or on an indoor drying rack. It’s especially useful during months when drying laundry indoors can take a lot longer. Just make sure you’re following the fabric care label,” and paying close attention to the laundry symbols, “with more delicate bedding.”

Alicia Sokolowski, Cleaning and Laundry Expert and CEO and Founder of AspenClean, agrees. “In this case, there is no need for an extra wash or detergent,” she says. “It is important to mention that this advice does not mean we recommend turning every single load up to the maximum, especially if you are dealing with delicate fabrics or linen!”

An extra spin cycle is not always necessary for every set of sheets. Brushed cotton, silk, and linen can hold more water than synthetic fabrics, so it helps to open the machine after the first cycle and check whether the sheets still feel heavy or damp.

“It’s not necessary to use an additional spin in every wash,” says Enrique Gonzalez, Expert House Cleaner and Founder of Seattle Green Cleaning Fairy. “If the sheets I take out feel fine and comfortable, I’ll use the dryer, but if they feel wet or too heavy, I’ll use another spin. This is just about the right load. There is no need to take an additional step if you don’t have to.”

More Ways to Speed Up Drying

Running another spin cycle is not the only way to reduce drying time when bed sheets are air-dried indoors.

“I always recommend giving your sheets a good shake before putting them in the dryer or hanging them up,” says Rechelle. This is known as the “Shake Method.” “Sheets have a tendency to twist and bunch together, which traps moisture and leaves you with those damp patches,” she adds.

If you are drying indoors, Rechelle suggests spreading sheets across two drying rack bars rather than folding them over one. “Place the rack somewhere with airflow, ideally near a fan or dehumidifier,” she says. Opening windows can also make a noticeable difference.

If you are using a tumble dryer, an extra spin cycle can still help reduce energy use. Rechelle also recommends adding wool dryer balls. “They help separate the fabric as it tumbles, letting air flow more evenly,” she says. “Avoid overloading the dryer,” which is a common laundry mistake. “Your sheets need room to move.”

What to Shop

Below are six indoor laundry accessories and favorites chosen to make drying laundry indoors easier through the colder months.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

“The secret to faster drying isn’t more heat,” says Rechelle. “It’s removing as much moisture as possible before the drying process even begins,” and the same idea applies when trying to dry clothes faster, too.

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