During the winter months, many households—especially in regions with high humidity—tend to dry clothes indoors or in seemingly convenient spots. However, hanging clothes in the wrong places during winter can negatively affect both your health and your living environment. Unfortunately, this is a habit that many people, including a large number of Vietnamese families, continue to do without fully realizing the consequences.

One of the most common mistakes is hanging wet clothes on radiators or heating devices. While this may seem like a fast and practical solution, it can significantly increase indoor humidity levels. Excess moisture in the air creates an ideal environment for mold, dust mites, and bacteria to thrive. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), prolonged exposure to damp indoor environments is associated with respiratory problems, allergies, and weakened immune systems, particularly in children and the elderly.

Another frequently overlooked issue is drying clothes inside poorly ventilated rooms, such as bedrooms or living spaces with closed windows during cold weather. When clothes dry, they release moisture into the air. In winter, when homes are kept tightly sealed to retain warmth, this moisture has nowhere to escape. Over time, condensation can form on walls, ceilings, and windows, leading to mold growth and unpleasant odors. The UK National Health Service (NHS) warns that indoor mold exposure can worsen asthma symptoms and cause persistent coughing, sneezing, and skin irritation.

Bathrooms are also a popular but problematic location for drying clothes in winter. Although bathrooms are designed to handle moisture, continuously hanging wet clothes there can overwhelm ventilation systems. This can result in lingering dampness, mildew buildup, and even structural damage over time. Additionally, bacteria and fungi that flourish in moist bathroom environments may transfer onto clothing, increasing the risk of skin infections.

Drying clothes outdoors during winter is not always ideal either, especially in cold, humid, or polluted conditions. Clothes may take too long to dry, absorb unpleasant odors, or even develop mildew. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) highlights that persistent damp fabrics can harbor microorganisms that are harmful when inhaled or come into contact with the skin.

So, what is the safest solution? Experts recommend using well-ventilated areas specifically designed for drying clothes, such as balconies with airflow or rooms equipped with dehumidifiers. If drying indoors is unavoidable, opening windows periodically, using exhaust fans, or investing in a condenser or heat-pump dryer can significantly reduce health risks. Maintaining indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% is considered optimal for both comfort and health.

In conclusion, while hanging clothes indoors during winter may seem harmless, doing so in inappropriate places can lead to serious health and hygiene issues. By choosing proper drying locations and ensuring adequate ventilation, households can protect their health, preserve their living spaces, and avoid long-term problems that are often overlooked during the colder months.