How to Dry Underwear Properly

After washing, proper drying plays an important role in extending the life of underwear. Heat in particular can permanently damage materials such as elastane and delicate fabrics.

Drying undershirts and underwear gently helps preserve their fit, elasticity and comfort for as long as possible.

Short answer

Whenever possible, underwear should be gently air-dried. High temperatures in a tumble dryer can damage elastane fibres and significantly shorten the life of the garment.

Tumble drying or air drying – which is better?

In general, air drying is the gentler method:

• no exposure to high temperatures
• less stress on the fibres
• longer garment life

Why heat can be a problem

Many underwear fabrics contain elastane. These fibres are sensitive to heat:

• elasticity can decrease
• fabrics can stretch out more quickly
• the fit can deteriorate

Performance fabrics can also lose some of their moisture-management properties when exposed to high temperatures.

Drying underwear on a clothesline

Air drying is the best choice in most cases:

• gentle on all materials
• no energy consumption
• less stress on the fabric

A well-ventilated room or a shaded outdoor area is ideal.

Sunlight – good or bad?

Direct sunlight can place additional stress on fabrics:

• UV radiation can damage fibres
• colours can fade
• elastic fibres can lose their elasticity more quickly

Underwear should therefore not be left to dry in direct sunlight for extended periods.

When can a tumble dryer still be suitable?

• for pure cotton without elastane
• at low temperatures using a gentle cycle
• when explicitly permitted by the care instructions

Common drying mistakes

• using excessively high tumble-dryer temperatures
• leaving garments in direct sunlight for too long
• using unsuitable drying programmes
• tumble drying too frequently

More about proper washing: How to wash underwear properly

Frequently asked questions

Can underwear go in the tumble dryer?

That depends on the material. For delicate fabrics or garments containing elastane, tumble drying should preferably be avoided or only used at low temperatures.

Why does underwear lose its shape in the tumble dryer?

High heat can damage elastane fibres and cause garments to lose their elasticity.

Is air drying always better?

In most cases, yes, because it is the gentlest drying method for the materials.

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