Every Washing Machine Can “Dry” Laundry — Just Not the Way You Think
Most washing machines do not dry clothes with heat like a tumble dryer. However, every washing machine does have a drying function in the form of high-speed water extraction, and this is what many people overlook.
The Hidden Function: Spin-Only Drying
All washing machines include a spin cycle. During this cycle, the drum rotates at very high speed (often 1,000–1,600 RPM), forcing water out of clothes using centrifugal force.
This process:
-
Removes up to 70–80% of the water
-
Dramatically shortens air-drying time
-
Leaves clothes damp, not dripping
In practical terms, this means:
👉 Your washing machine already performs the most energy-intensive part of drying.
Why Most People Don’t Realize This
-
Marketing confusion
The word “dryer” is usually associated only with heat, so people assume drying is impossible without a separate appliance. -
Spin cycle is underestimated
Many users leave machines on default settings and never use extra spin or spin-only programs. -
Washer-dryers blur the concept
Combo machines use heat, making people think standard washers do nothing related to drying—which isn’t true.
How Effective Is Spin Drying?
The effectiveness depends on spin speed:
-
800 RPM – clothes are very damp
-
1,200 RPM – good for everyday drying
-
1,400–1,600 RPM – clothes dry much faster on a rack or line
After a high-spin cycle:
-
Towels may dry in 6–12 hours indoors
-
Light clothing may dry in 2–4 hours
-
Outdoors, drying time is often cut in half
How to Use This “Drying” Function Properly
1. Use a Spin-Only Cycle After Washing
Most machines allow you to run an additional spin cycle after the wash finishes.
This:
-
Removes extra water
-
Prevents musty smells
-
Saves drying time
2. Select the Highest Safe Spin Speed
Check garment labels:
-
Cotton & jeans: high spin
-
Delicates & wool: low spin
3. Don’t Overload the Drum
Overloading prevents proper water extraction and makes clothes wetter after washing.
Important Clarification
❌ Washing machines do NOT fully dry clothes
✔️ They mechanically dewater them
Only washer-dryer combos or tumble dryers use heat to evaporate remaining moisture.
Still, spin drying:
-
Uses far less electricity
-
Is gentler on clothes
-
Extends fabric lifespan
Why This Matters
Many households:
-
Use dryers unnecessarily
-
Spend more on electricity than needed
-
Wear out clothes faster
By maximizing your washing machine’s spin function, you can:
-
Reduce energy costs
-
Dry clothes naturally faster
-
Avoid heat damage
Bottom Line
✅ Every washing machine can “dry” laundry by removing most of the water
❌ Not every washing machine can heat-dry clothes
Once you understand and use the spin function properly, you’ll realize your washing machine already does half the job of a dryer—and does it efficiently.