Tumble dryers are great when the weather’s wet and cold (summer or winter), also when you have a large family and hanging space is limited. Knowing how to use your tumble dryer correctly is important in order to avoid classic problem stories like wrinkled and shrunken clothes or damage to your dryer! At Bergens, we care about your laundry and appliances. We want to help you keep them in the best shape with these simple tips.
Know your Symbols
It’s easy to let the different symbols on your tumble dryer confuse you. Simply put – different articles of clothing require different treatments and all the different symbol variations feature a square with a circle inside it.
There are four main symbols:
- A square with a circle in it means that the article of clothing may be tumble dried.
- A square with a circle in it and a single dot in the circle indicates that this article of clothing must be tumble dried at a low-heat setting.
- A square with a circle in it and two dots in the circle indicates that this article of clothing must be tumble dried at a high-heat setting.
- A square with a circle in it and a cross or ‘X’ through both means that the article of clothing can NOT be tumble dried.
Why can’t I tumble dry some of my clothes?
- Some materials are more delicate than others, and require lower heats and softer care in order to be dried so that they don’t get damaged, lose their shape or shrink. For example, articles of clothing that have beads or sequins on them should not be tumble dried.
- Some articles of clothing, like bras, have thin pieces of wire in them that can warp or change shape under intense heat. They can still be tumble dried, but they should be dried at a low heat.
Should I pack my tumble dryer until it’s full?
- Just like your washing machine, overloading your tumble dryer can create many issues.
- These include possibly breaking the belt, tumbling-mechanics, damage to the drum and causing damage to your clothes.
- Using smaller loads can save you electricity.
How much should I put in?
- Fill your tumble dryer to about half way. Anymore than this risks damage to your appliance and clothing as stated above.
CONCLUSION
The above measures will go a long way in looking after your clothing and dryer. It is however a good idea to service your tumble dryer occasionally (once a year). There is a surprising amount of lint, fluff and other debris that collects on the interior of your dryer.
The aforementioned debris can collect in the belt pulley, heating elements, thermostats and motor which could result in damage to your appliance and unnecessary repair costs.
Please feel free to call Bergens Appliance Repairs, Randburg for any other assistance or advice.