Based on expert advice, it's generally not recommended to air dry sweatpants.
According to the reference, many heavy garments, including sweatpants, are better suited for machine drying. The reference states:
"There are certain items that do not fair well with air-drying," he explains. "Many heavy sweatshirts and sweatpants, as well as towels, are better off in the dryer."
This suggests that while it is possible to air dry sweatpants, they may not dry well due to their heavy fabric and can be better dried in a machine.
Here's a breakdown:
Why Machine Drying is Preferred for Sweatpants:
- Faster Drying: Machine dryers use heat and air circulation to rapidly dry thick fabrics like those in sweatpants.
- Reduced Stiffness: Air-dried sweatpants can sometimes become stiff or coarse. Machine drying with a bit of tumbling action often results in softer fabric.
- Preventing Mildew: Thick fabrics retain moisture for longer periods, increasing the chance of mildew or unpleasant smells, which can be avoided by using the dryer.
When Air Drying Might Work (But Not Ideal)
Air drying can work in some limited cases:
- Lightweight Sweatpants: If the sweatpants are made of a very light material, they might air dry effectively.
- Ideal Conditions: If it's a very hot and dry climate, sweatpants might air dry faster.
Key Points in a Table
| Method | Suitability for Sweatpants | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Machine Drying | Highly Recommended | Faster, Softer, Less Chance of Mildew | Potential for shrinkage |
| Air Drying | Not Ideal | Energy Saving, Gentler on the Material (sometimes) | Slower, Can become stiff, higher chance of mildew |
In conclusion, while technically you can air dry sweatpants, machine drying is generally the preferred method. This is because it helps them dry faster, stay soft, and reduces the chances of mildew.
