Non-heated vs heated clothes airers: save energy and dry smarter with Leekes

Why go for a heated airer?

The Casa winged heated clothes airer and the Casa 3 tier heated clothes airer are two standout models available at Leekes. The winged heated airer features 20 large heating bars and offers plenty of drying space for a full load of washing, all while being cheaper to run than a standard tumble dryer. The 3 tier heated model, meanwhile, includes 36 drying bars, allowing you to dry everything from T-shirts to towels more efficiently.

Heated clothes airers dry significantly faster than non-heated versions, often taking around 4 to 7 hours for a cotton load—much quicker than purely air drying indoors. They are also gentler on fabrics compared to tumble dryers, meaning less shrinkage and wear over time. With energy prices on the rise, a heated airer can be a cost-effective alternative, using less electricity than a tumble dryer while providing reliable results. It’s the perfect choice for indoor drying during colder months or when you don’t have access to outdoor drying space.

The Casa 2-in-1 electric towel rack is a versatile addition to any bathroom or utility space. With 6 aluminium bars, it offers ample hanging room for towels, bath sheets and laundry, while the smart 2-in-1 design means you can either mount it on the wall as a heated towel rail or use it freestanding and portable as needed. This flexibility makes it ideal for small homes or shared bathrooms where space is at a premium, while the heating function helps keep towels fresh, warm and ready-to-use—no more damp chill after a shower.

The place for normal (non-heated) airers

Of course, traditional airers still have their place. The 5five extending radiator clothes airer is a simple, affordable option that provides ample hanging space for freshly washed laundry. Similarly, the Casa upright clothes airer and Casa 3 tier clothes airer offer plenty of drying room while being easy to fold and store. These non-heated airers are ideal when the central heating is already on, allowing you to take advantage of the ambient warmth without adding to your electricity bill. They are lightweight, portable, and perfect for moving between rooms or even using outdoors when the weather allows.

Combining the two for best effect

Combining heated clothes airers and non-heated airers can give you the best of both worlds. You might use a heated airer in winter when drying time is longer and humidity is higher, while keeping a non-heated airer handy for lighter loads or when the heating is already running. For example, you can reserve the heated airer for heavier fabrics like towels and bedding, while using the non-heated model for smaller items or delicates. Ensuring good airflow around your airers and avoiding overcrowding also improves drying efficiency and prevents damp odours.

While a heated airer may not completely replace a tumble dryer for large or urgent loads, it’s an excellent choice for everyday use when energy savings and fabric care are top priorities. For those who prefer to air dry their laundry naturally, a traditional airer remains a dependable and eco-friendly option that complements your home’s heating system.

Leekes makes it easy to choose the right drying solution for your home, with a wide range of laundry and housekeeping essentials to suit every lifestyle. Whether you opt for a heated clothes airer or a traditional airer for everyday use, you’ll find quality, value, and convenience in every design.