As winter sets in across the UK, bringing with it wet and windy weather, the opportunity to dry laundry outside vanishes. In response, a growing number of homeowners are making a smart switch, abandoning a kitchen 'demon appliance' in favour of a more economical and space-saving solution: the heated clothes airer.
The Cost-Effective Alternative to Tumble Dryers
One prominent money expert has famously labelled the tumble dryer a 'demon appliance' due to its high energy consumption. This sentiment is fuelling a shift towards heated airers, with models like the Dry:Soon Deluxe 3-Tier Heated Clothes Airer leading the charge. This particular model is currently a star of Lakeland's Black Friday sale, reduced to £159.99 from its original £200 price tag.
The financial appeal is crystal clear. Lakeland states that running this gadget costs approximately just 9p per hour. It's crucial to note that this estimate is based on domestic electricity prices at the time of use, but it presents a stark contrast to the significantly higher cost of operating a standard tumble dryer.
Features and Drying Power
This isn't just about saving pennies; it's about performance. According to Lakeland, the tiered heated airer is designed for fast drying. It boasts an impressive 21 metres of drying space across 36 heated bars, giving it the capacity to hold up to 15kg of washing. This is equivalent to roughly two average-sized loads of laundry, making it a practical option for most households.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly entry point, other options are available. Argos sells the Home 11m Heated Clothes Airer with Wings for £50, which can hold 10kg and has a maximum wattage of 220 watts. Meanwhile, Dunelm offers the Black and Decker Winged Heated Airer for £100, which also features fold-out wings and can handle a 10kg load.
What Users Are Saying
The reaction from shoppers who have made the switch has been overwhelmingly positive. One delighted reviewer explicitly stated their reason for purchasing: “I purchased this as a replacement for my Tumble dryer, to cut back on electricity costs.” They added, “I use it with the cover on, and I can fit a full load of washing on, and it dries overnight. It also cuts back on having to iron my clothes. Folds away for easy storage too.”
The product has been so well-received that some customers are spreading the word. Another commenter shared: “Excellent I have bought for all my children as it is cheaper than tumble dryer.” Even when issues arise, the customer service seems to match the product's quality; one user confirmed that when they had a problem, Lakeland dealt with it "quickly and efficiently," dispatching a new airer promptly.
With their combination of low running costs, efficient drying, and easy storage, heated airers are proving to be a wise investment for UK households looking to conquer the winter laundry challenge without racking up huge energy bills.
