It is not very common for Caribbean households to have a dryer. So it is very possible that like me, you never had to use one. So I have a few tips to help make sure that your clothes don’t shrink or even come out damp.
First things first, what not to put in the dryer.
- Jeans
- Joggers
- Bras
- Stockings or tights
- Scarfs
- Knitted Clothes (this means wool or synthetic type of wool)
- Socks (optional – I don’t find that my socks shrink but it is possible that it can at a certain temperature)
I also advise not to dry your darks and colours with your whites. I usually dry my whites in my room. My darks and colours I mix together but I don’t advise it for everything. Use your judgement, google it or call a parent or friend to clarify. That’s what I did. Now for the things you will dry, check the tag on the item to see what temperature works best. Based on the options my accommodations laundry room has, I do my clothes at medium – 62 celsius for 45 minutes.
Before using the dryer, make sure that there is no lint in the lint catcher. For the clothes that won’t go in the dryer, you can either use the heating rack in the bathroom if you have one. Or get a clothes rack and put it near the heater in your room. Make sure to double check the washing machine for any socks or small clothes item that may be hidden somewhere.
After you’ve put your clothes to wash and dry, take your basket or bag with you.