What is do not tumble dry?

Here's what "do not tumble dry" means on clothing care labels:

"Do not tumble dry" indicates that an item should not be dried in a tumble dryer. Tumble drying, which uses heat and tumbling action, can damage certain fabrics or garment constructions.

Here's why you might see this instruction:

• Fabric Sensitivity: Some fabrics, like delicate fabrics (silk, lace), wool, or fabrics with embellishments, are easily damaged by the high heat and rough tumbling of a dryer.
• Shrinkage: Certain fabrics, such as natural fibers like cotton and linen, are prone to shrinkage when exposed to high heat.
• Damage to Embellishments: Beads, sequins, and other embellishments can melt, break, or detach in a dryer.
• Elasticity Loss: Fabrics containing elastic fibers (like spandex or elastane) can lose their elasticity and shape in the dryer.
• Construction Issues: Garments with delicate seams, bonded materials, or special finishes might be damaged by the dryer's heat and agitation.

Alternatives:

When a garment is labeled "do not tumble dry," the recommended drying method is typically one of the following:

• Line Drying: Hanging the garment on a clothesline.
• Drip Drying: Hanging the garment to drip dry, often indoors or in a shaded area.
• Flat Drying: Laying the garment flat on a clean, dry surface (like a drying rack).