Certain fabrics get damaged when exposed to high heat. For instance, rayon—a popular material in knit styles—can shrink and unravel in the drier. More accurately, it sets in the dryer after shrinking in the wash, not letting the fabric bounce back to the same size or stretchiness.

Hanging clothes to dry avoids unnecessary wear-and-tear and promises numerous ecological benefits (less energy expenditure). Likewise, if hung outside, UV light provides a powerful natural bleaching solution and antibacterial disinfectant. Nevertheless, those who do their washing at the laundromat will find transporting wet clothes difficult. But what’s the alternative—certainly not waiting for the clothes to air dry on premise.

Dealing with Wet Clothes Away from Home

Moving wet apparel is tricky, especially when mixed with dry clothes. Without proper care, you may end up having to re-clean everything. This is because wet clothes begin to smell after neglect. Washing machines do not kill all bacteria, so when given a warm, dark and moist environment, the remaining bacteria flourish.

But how can you prevent bacterial growth? Only with airtight plastic bags. Such bags separate your dry and wet clothes, plus delay bacterial growth long enough for you to get home and deal with the clothes.

Some people recommend wrapping wet laundry in hot, dry towels, but this is generally a bad idea for two reasons: the towel will dampen and spread the moisture; the warmth will encourage faster bacterial growth.