Winters and monsoons are bad times for drying laundry. There’s no sun for days and it’s mostly dewy or rainy all the time. So people generally end up putting laundry indoors to dry. However, unknowingly, they are making a huge mistake. Who would have thought that a simple and easy task could possess such health risks. A growing body of evidence shows that this common household habit compromises indoor air quality significantly. It not only increases humidity indoors but also allows increased mold growth which also irritates respiratory symptoms. Let’s have a closer look at how this innocent habit can become a serious issue.The consequences of increased indoor humidity When you put your wet or semi-dry laundry indoors, especially in poorly ventilated corners, the moisture in clothes evaporates and becomes one with surrounding air. Did you know that a single load of laundry can release up to two liters of water. Rooms without proper airflow or exhaust can collect moisture and increase humidity levels. High indoor humidity is known for creating mold and fungal growth.What WHO Guidelines say on dampness The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued comprehensive “Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality: Dampness and Mould”. It is based on a systematic review of global research. It highlights some important issues around indoor moisture and microbial growth: Heightened prevalence of respiratory symptomsAggravation of asthma and allergiesPerturbation of immune responses(all outcomes supported by epidemiological evidence)https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789289041683Researchers also noted that occupants of damp or mouldy buildings have up to a 75% greater risk of respiratory symptoms and asthma compared with those in dry, well-ventilated spaces. It is important in the context of indoor drying. It creates conditions similar to persistent dampness if moisture is not properly removed.Mould Growth: The main hazardIt is important to know that the moisture released from drying laundry evaporates and leaves consequences. It often condenses on cool surfaces like walls and windows. These damp surfaces become ideal sites for moulds like Aspergillus, Cladosporium, and Stachybotrys. These are known for creating respiratory issues. These can irritate the respiratory tract and trigger allergic reactions. Kids and old residents are especially at risk. Health risks
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As per studies on indoor dampness and respiratory, it can increase health risks such as:Increased coughingIssues in respiratory symptomsChemical irritantsThe indoor hanging of clothes creates excessive indoor moisture. It heightens mould growth and increases dust mite which thrive in humid conditions. In addition, drying synthetic laundry indoors may also release residual volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or detergent residues into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. Recommendations from health organisationsWHO guidelines recommend preventing microbial growth indoors by improving ventilation and minimising moisture. In homes with no drying space, use vented tumble dryers or dehumidifiers.While drying laundry indoors might seem harmless, evidence from WHO guidelines makes it clear that the practice is not safe and can compromise respiratory health. It is important to use balconies for drying or invest in vented dryers.
