So, its the smarter way to dry your things, right?

Well, sometimes the dryer is actually the more ideal method for certain fabrics.

Weve broken down the things you shouldnt air dryand whyalong with the things you might air-dry with special considerations.

blue jeans on drying rack

Credit:Getty Images / Basak Gurbuz Derman

Depending on your specific situation, some of them may be more applicable than others.

If thats not the case, youll find a list of things youre better off tumble drying.

Things You Shouldnt Air-Dry

1.

Hear us out: Because denim is bulky, it can take a long time to air-dry.

Instead, always lay these items flat if you air-dry them or follow their other special drying instructions.

Knitwear:Your cashmere andwool sweatersare too precious (and fragile) to risk a run through the dryer.

But just like theyshould never be hungon a hanger, they also shouldnt be hung to dry.

Flatten them on a towel and gently flip them over after some time to completely dry them.

Silk:Heat can damage delicate fibers, sosilk itemsshould always be air-dried.

Lay them flat on a clean towel and use another to lightly soak up excess moisture.

Never leave silk to dry in direct sunlight, as it can cause colors to fade.

Leather and suede:Its well known that water is leather and suedes common enemy.

Undergarments:Most pairs of underwear, especially cotton ones, are durable enough to run through the dryer.

However, to keep their shapes, lay them flat to dry thoroughly before putting them away.