Drying Bed Sheets Fast: How to Guide & Techniques

At the end of a long and tiring day we all crave a calm restful night’s sleep. Nothing is more important to enhance sleep than a comfy bed with fresh sheets. Carefully washing, drying and storing your bedding can help keep that hotel clean sheet feel and enhance their longevity. What are the secrets to drying sheets faster with a softer feel, minimal wrinkles and ready to be stored or put back on the bed? See our guide below.

After Cleaning Bed Sheets Prepare for Drying Process

Bedding should be washed and dried weekly and different fabric types and types of sheets such as cotton sheets, linen sheets, silk sheets, polyester sheets, bamboo sheets all have unique washing and drying recommendations. First step is to check the required care label for the care instructions that is sewn into each of your pillowcases, fitted and flat sheets, duvet covers and blankets. There are mandatory laundry and drying instructions that detail the washing machine temperatures, type of laundry detergent and dryer heat setting recommended. Some fabrics may be dry clean only and cannot be tumble dried at all.

How to Load From Washing Machine to Tumble Dryers

Ok, are you guilty of grabbing your wet bed sheets in a ball out of the washing machine and just throwing them in the dryer? That is what I used to do and I wondered why the sheets got all tangled. Due to their size, it is very common for bedding to get twisted which leads to wrinkles and damp spots on the fabric. Below are the step-by-step tasks for loading tumble dryers and trust me it works;

Remove wet bed sheets promptly from the washing machine to avoid mold and excessive wrinkling
Shake each item as you unload the washer to loosen the fabric to promote even drying. Separate sheets, pillowcases or duvet covers that have become stuck together before adding them to the dryer drum.
Take a minute to smooth out any wrinkles in the fabric, as these can become harder to remove once the sheets are dry.
In order to prevent snagging or damage to fabric double check that all button or snaps on duvets are closed. Often buttons and snaps fall off so try out our hotel style duvet covers design with a self-closure.
Inspect for any stains or spots. Pre-treat spots with a stain remover and rewash your sheets.
If you’re drying several sets of bed sheets, it’s a good idea to separate them by size which will make it easier to match them when it is time to put them on your beds.
Place one bed sheet into the dryer at a time making sure it is fully unfolded and spread out to allow for maximum flow of air. Smaller items such as pillowcases and shams can be placed in last on top in an effort to prevent them from getting tangled.
Avoid overcrowding the dryer with too many bed sheets. We recommend drying one or two sets at a time so they have enough space to tumble freely and dry evenly.
Once all the bed sheets are loaded, close the dryer door, apply the correct settings and put the machine in motion.

For a more in depth guide on how to wash cotton sheets check this out.

Ok, are you guilty of grabbing your wet bed sheets in a ball out of the washing machine and just throwing them in the dryer? That is what I used to do and I wondered why the sheets got all tangled. Due to their size, it is very common for bedding to get twisted which leads to wrinkles and damp spots on the fabric. Below are the step-by-step tasks for loading tumble dryers and trust me it works;

Remove wet bed sheets promptly from the washing machine to avoid mold and excessive wrinkling
Shake each item as you unload the washer to loosen the fabric to promote even drying. Separate sheets, pillowcases or duvet covers that have become stuck together before adding them to the dryer drum.
Take a minute to smooth out any wrinkles in the fabric, as these can become harder to remove once the sheets are dry.
In order to prevent snagging or damage to fabric double check that all button or snaps on duvets are closed. Often buttons and snaps fall off so try out our hotel style duvet covers design with a self-closure.
Inspect for any stains or spots. Pre-treat spots with a stain remover and rewash your sheets.
If you’re drying several sets of bed sheets, it’s a good idea to separate them by size which will make it easier to match them when it is time to put them on your beds.
Place one bed sheet into the dryer at a time making sure it is fully unfolded and spread out to allow for maximum flow of air. Smaller items such as pillowcases and shams can be placed in last on top in an effort to prevent them from getting tangled.
Avoid overcrowding the dryer with too many bed sheets. We recommend drying one or two sets at a time so they have enough space to tumble freely and dry evenly.
Once all the bed sheets are loaded, close the dryer door, apply the correct settings and put the machine in motion.

For a more in depth guide on how to wash cotton sheets check this out.

Time For Drying Your Bedding with a Dryer

There are many techniques to use when drying your bedding but certainly use of a machine dryer tops the list. The heat of the dryer kills lingering bacteria, ensuring your bedding is clean and fresh and adds softness. If there are not specific instructions on the label, start with a shorter drying time as over drying can cause the fabric to become brittle. Drying time varies depending on the fabric type and thickness but is usually between 20 and 45 minutes. During the process periodically check on the progress and adjust accordingly. It is good to refer to the manual for your specific model for any further detailed instructions.

Choosing the Drying Cycle and Heat Setting

Choosing the correct drying cycle for your bed sheets ensures that they dry evenly and without any damage. Most dryers offer a range of heat settings, such as low, medium, and high. For cotton or linen, using a low to medium heat setting or the permanent-press setting is recommended. A very high heat may damage the elastic on the fitted sheets and cause unnecessary shrinkage. For more delicate fabrics like silk try the delicate or gentle cycle. Some dryers offer a cool down feature to help reduce wrinkles. Many dryers have a setting that senses when the items are dry which is a good option to use for bedding. Again, consult your manual for information on the best cycle to use for your fabric.

Learn more tips about how to get wrinkles out of cotton sheets

There are many techniques to use when drying your bedding but certainly use of a machine dryer tops the list. The heat of the dryer kills lingering bacteria, ensuring your bedding is clean and fresh and adds softness. If there are not specific instructions on the label, start with a shorter drying time as over drying can cause the fabric to become brittle. Drying time varies depending on the fabric type and thickness but is usually between 20 and 45 minutes. During the process periodically check on the progress and adjust accordingly. It is good to refer to the manual for your specific model for any further detailed instructions.

Choosing the Drying Cycle and Heat Setting

Choosing the correct drying cycle for your bed sheets ensures that they dry evenly and without any damage. Most dryers offer a range of heat settings, such as low, medium, and high. For cotton or linen, using a low to medium heat setting or the permanent-press setting is recommended. A very high heat may damage the elastic on the fitted sheets and cause unnecessary shrinkage. For more delicate fabrics like silk try the delicate or gentle cycle. Some dryers offer a cool down feature to help reduce wrinkles. Many dryers have a setting that senses when the items are dry which is a good option to use for bedding. Again, consult your manual for information on the best cycle to use for your fabric.

Learn more tips about how to get wrinkles out of cotton sheets

Dry Towel Method, Dryer Balls and Other Useful Tips

Below are some additional tricks to use when drying:

Dry Towel Method-Throw a dry towel into the dryer with the wet bed sheets. The bulk of the bath towel will minimize total dry time by absorbing water and reducing tangling. If you do not choose a light-colored towel that is a bit older there is the possibility that lint from the towel will attach to the bed sheets. Avoid drying wet towels and bed sheets together as they will dry at different times.
Dryer Balls- They are rubber, plastic, or wool balls that reduce dry time, increase air flow, reduce wrinkles, keep items separate and soften fabric. If you prefer to avoid plastic like we do, use our USA made wool dryer balls, which are fully biodegradable and quieter in the dryer. To add some natural scent, add a few drops of essential body oils to the wool dryer balls before placing them in the dryer.
Dry Each Sheet Separately – Although this is more hands on it really does work. Dry one bed sheet at a time for 10-15 minutes. After each sheet is dry, pull it out of the drum and put in the next one. Fold each warm sheet as soon as it comes out of the dryer. You can also dry all your pillowcases together in 10–15 minutes. Generally, if you have a flat sheet, fitted sheet and 4 pillowcases you will get them all dried in 30 to 45 minutes.
Intervals Method- Instead of choosing a longer cycle for a set of bed sheets, set the timer for 20 minutes. When the timer goes off take the sheets out of the machine, give them a shake to separate sheets that have got tangled together. Then put them back in and set the timer for another 20 minutes. Repeat this until the load of laundry is dry which usually takes one or two times.

Below are some additional tricks to use when drying:

Dry Towel Method-Throw a dry towel into the dryer with the wet bed sheets. The bulk of the bath towel will minimize total dry time by absorbing water and reducing tangling. If you do not choose a light-colored towel that is a bit older there is the possibility that lint from the towel will attach to the bed sheets. Avoid drying wet towels and bed sheets together as they will dry at different times.
Dryer Balls- They are rubber, plastic, or wool balls that reduce dry time, increase air flow, reduce wrinkles, keep items separate and soften fabric. If you prefer to avoid plastic like we do, use our USA made wool dryer balls, which are fully biodegradable and quieter in the dryer. To add some natural scent, add a few drops of essential body oils to the wool dryer balls before placing them in the dryer.
Dry Each Sheet Separately – Although this is more hands on it really does work. Dry one bed sheet at a time for 10-15 minutes. After each sheet is dry, pull it out of the drum and put in the next one. Fold each warm sheet as soon as it comes out of the dryer. You can also dry all your pillowcases together in 10–15 minutes. Generally, if you have a flat sheet, fitted sheet and 4 pillowcases you will get them all dried in 30 to 45 minutes.
Intervals Method- Instead of choosing a longer cycle for a set of bed sheets, set the timer for 20 minutes. When the timer goes off take the sheets out of the machine, give them a shake to separate sheets that have got tangled together. Then put them back in and set the timer for another 20 minutes. Repeat this until the load of laundry is dry which usually takes one or two times.

Shop Dryer Balls

What to do When Fabric is Dry

When the load of sheets is done, open the dryer door and remove the sheet promptly to avoid wrinkling and creases. Give them a gentle shake and smooth sheets. Inspect them for holes, damage or signs of fraying before folding for storage. Take them out of the dryer very slightly damp and place them right back on the bed, smoothing out all wrinkles before they set in.

How to Dry Bed Sheets Without a Dryer

Drying sheets without a dryer is not only possible but can increase the fabric's longevity. First, if your washing machine has the ability, give your load of laundry an extra spin before taking it out to get out as much moisture as possible. Then take the sheets out and give them a good shake to help minimize creasing. It is best to do the wash first thing in the morning in order to allow the entire day for drying.

When the weather permits, drying your bed sheets outside in the direct sunlight is a quick and efficient method that is cost effective, environmentally friendly, and leaves a fresh scent. Depending on the weather and the thickness of your bedding drying time can take anywhere between 30 minutes to a few hours. You can fold your sheet over the line and attach with clothes pins to hold it in place or form a sack by folding it in half and pinning each corner to a spot on the line much like a pouch.

Indoor air drying is also a possibility if weather or space prevents outdoor drying. You can hang sheets on a drying rack, curtain rod, retractable clothes line, banister or even a door. Run your hand against the folded edge of the fabric hanging, to make sure it is smooth and not bunched up. Using a freestanding fan to create more airflow will speed the dry time. One word to the wise, do not put wet sheets on a hot radiator as this could be dangerous.

If you are not a fan of really crisp air-dried sheets you can soften them by putting them in the dryer on low heatwith dryer balls for 5 minutes to soften them.

Two additional new tricks I just discovered.

Iron your sheets under a dry towel- If you like to iron like me, you can dry and flatten them with this method. Place your damp bed sheets on the iron board and lay an old dry towel over the top. To help with wrinkles you can also spray a bit of water with a spray bottle or the spray function of your iron. Put your iron on a medium to high setting and apply the heat of the iron onto the towel. The heat will transfer through the towel onto the bed sheets and dry and press them at the same time.
Use a hairdryer to spot dry – If you finish air drying your bedding outside or inside and a few annoying spots are still slightly damp take a hair dryer pointed to the spot for a few minutes but be careful not to put it too close.

Drying sheets without a dryer is not only possible but can increase the fabric's longevity. First, if your washing machine has the ability, give your load of laundry an extra spin before taking it out to get out as much moisture as possible. Then take the sheets out and give them a good shake to help minimize creasing. It is best to do the wash first thing in the morning in order to allow the entire day for drying.

When the weather permits, drying your bed sheets outside in the direct sunlight is a quick and efficient method that is cost effective, environmentally friendly, and leaves a fresh scent. Depending on the weather and the thickness of your bedding drying time can take anywhere between 30 minutes to a few hours. You can fold your sheet over the line and attach with clothes pins to hold it in place or form a sack by folding it in half and pinning each corner to a spot on the line much like a pouch.

Indoor air drying is also a possibility if weather or space prevents outdoor drying. You can hang sheets on a drying rack, curtain rod, retractable clothes line, banister or even a door. Run your hand against the folded edge of the fabric hanging, to make sure it is smooth and not bunched up. Using a freestanding fan to create more airflow will speed the dry time. One word to the wise, do not put wet sheets on a hot radiator as this could be dangerous.

If you are not a fan of really crisp air-dried sheets you can soften them by putting them in the dryer on low heatwith dryer balls for 5 minutes to soften them.

Two additional new tricks I just discovered.

Iron your sheets under a dry towel- If you like to iron like me, you can dry and flatten them with this method. Place your damp bed sheets on the iron board and lay an old dry towel over the top. To help with wrinkles you can also spray a bit of water with a spray bottle or the spray function of your iron. Put your iron on a medium to high setting and apply the heat of the iron onto the towel. The heat will transfer through the towel onto the bed sheets and dry and press them at the same time.
Use a hairdryer to spot dry – If you finish air drying your bedding outside or inside and a few annoying spots are still slightly damp take a hair dryer pointed to the spot for a few minutes but be careful not to put it too close.

Pitfalls to Avoid When Drying Bed Sheets in the Dryer

Using healthy and environmentally sound products is very important to me, so I avoid dryer sheets and fabric softeners. Often the chemicals used in these products can be toxic, cause skin irritation, endocrine disruption and artificial scents can cause headaches. Dryer sheets can also weaken the materials and cause pilling over time. A good alternative is to use wool dryer balls with a few drops of your favorite essential oil or add a half cup of vinegar to the wash cycle to soften your linens.

Be sure to wash and dry sheets separately, not with towels or other clothing. This will help reduce lint and prevent smaller items from getting caught in fitted sheet pockets and getting properly cleaned. Most importantly avoid overloading the dryer as this will cause sheets to wrinkle and not dry properly and it may damage your dryer. Make sure to remove sheets promptly once they are dry.

In order to prevent pilling, those little nubs of fabric that develop after they have been used for a bit and washed several times, we recommend avoiding washing and drying at hot temperatures, bleach and over drying the bedding as these processes will weaken the fabric. Pilling becomes a problem with microfiber or any fabric made of blended fibers. Good quality cotton fabric does not pill.

Using healthy and environmentally sound products is very important to me, so I avoid dryer sheets and fabric softeners. Often the chemicals used in these products can be toxic, cause skin irritation, endocrine disruption and artificial scents can cause headaches. Dryer sheets can also weaken the materials and cause pilling over time. A good alternative is to use wool dryer balls with a few drops of your favorite essential oil or add a half cup of vinegar to the wash cycle to soften your linens.

Be sure to wash and dry sheets separately, not with towels or other clothing. This will help reduce lint and prevent smaller items from getting caught in fitted sheet pockets and getting properly cleaned. Most importantly avoid overloading the dryer as this will cause sheets to wrinkle and not dry properly and it may damage your dryer. Make sure to remove sheets promptly once they are dry.

In order to prevent pilling, those little nubs of fabric that develop after they have been used for a bit and washed several times, we recommend avoiding washing and drying at hot temperatures, bleach and over drying the bedding as these processes will weaken the fabric. Pilling becomes a problem with microfiber or any fabric made of blended fibers. Good quality cotton fabric does not pill.

In Conclusion- Drying Bed Sheets

Don’t worry you don’t need to purchase a new dryer, any new equipment or do any dryer repair to make drying easy and even fun. By following these simple easy tips for drying, your bed sheets will look and feel great with minimal effort. What will you do with all the time and effort you saved, maybe take a nap?

In Conclusion- Drying Bed Sheets

Don’t worry you don’t need to purchase a new dryer, any new equipment or do any dryer repair to make drying easy and even fun. By following these simple easy tips for drying, your bed sheets will look and feel great with minimal effort. What will you do with all the time and effort you saved, maybe take a nap?

Check out our sheet collection, you will love them.