Why is it Not Recommended to Hang Clothes Outside? | April 25, 2025

With the return of sunny days and rising temperatures, the temptation to dry your laundry outdoors often returns. The scent of fresh laundry carried by the breeze seems irresistible. However, behind this idyllic image lies a hidden trap for the millions of people suffering from seasonal allergies. So, should we really dry clothes outside? The answer might surprise you…

The Return of Spring: Not So Sweet for Everyone

Every year, starting in March, spring marks the beginning of a long ordeal for those with pollen allergies. Hay fever—or allergic rhinitis—affects nearly a third of the population. Between sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and chronic fatigue, this time of year can be anything but restful.

From April to September, a variety of pollen types are in the air. First, tree pollen, then grass pollen (from May to July), and finally, pollen from herbaceous plants until autumn. Suffice to say, outdoor air becomes a veritable cocktail of allergens.

Why Does Drying Laundry Outside Make Allergy Symptoms Worse?

When you leave your clothes or sheets outside to dry, they act like pollen magnets. Pollen, which is naturally sticky, attaches to fabric fibers during the hours of exposure.

As a result, once you bring your laundry back inside, the pollen “invites itself” into your home—onto your skin, hair, and even your sheets. It’s not surprising to see your symptoms intensify for no apparent reason.

It’s like leaving your laundry in a flowery field during pollen season and then bringing it back into your home.

Good Habits to Limit Pollen Exposure

Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to limit exposure to pollen. Here are some recommendations from environmental health experts:

1. Dry your laundry indoors in a well-ventilated room or use a clothes dryer.

2. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen when you’re outside.

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3. Wear a hat or cap to prevent pollen from settling in your hair.

4. When you get home, wash your hair, change your clothes, and take a shower to remove pollen particles.

5. Avoid touching freshly mown lawns or standing near them immediately after mowing.

And What About Treatments?

Unfortunately, there is no miracle cure for hay fever. However, there are treatments that can relieve symptoms, such as antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops. That said, prevention remains your best ally.

Experts stress that by making small adjustments to your daily habits—like drying your laundry indoors—you can significantly improve your quality of life during allergy season. Protecting your home from pollen can help you enjoy spring more comfortably.

5 Common Mistakes When Using the Washing Machine That Make Clothes Dirtier

For illustrative purposes only.

Here are five common mistakes people make when using the washing machine that actually make clothes dirtier:

1. Not Taking Clothes Out Immediately After Washing

Many people leave clothes in the washing machine for a while after the cycle finishes—sometimes even overnight.

After washing, it’s crucial to dry the clothes immediately to avoid the growth of mold and bacteria. Because the garments are moist, keeping them in the washer creates a steamy environment, perfect for germs to thrive. This not only leads to bad odors on your clothes but also leaves your washing machine smelling foul.

Tip: Take the clothes out and hang them to dry right away.

2. Closing the Washing Machine Lid Immediately After Washing

Experts recommend that, after removing clothes from the washing machine, you leave the lid open for 2-3 hours before closing it again—especially with front-loading washing machines. This is because the rubber gasket around the door can trap moisture and steam inside, promoting the growth of bacteria and mold.

However, don’t leave the lid open for too long. Doing so can cause dust to enter the machine and might damage the door’s seal.

3. Washing Underwear in the Washing Machine

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