More households are turning to dehumidifiers as an energy-efficient alternative to traditional tumble dryers, according to financial expert Martin Lewis. Tumble dryers can be costly to run, with some models reaching up to £1 an hour in electricity costs. In contrast, dehumidifiers—which remove moisture from the air—can be significantly cheaper to operate. Some of the most efficient models use as little as 30p per hour, with the most energy-efficient ones costing less than 10p per hour. Dehumidifiers not only help dry clothes more quickly but also offer additional benefits. They can reduce indoor humidity levels, which helps prevent mould and damp smells, and can also improve air quality by filtering out allergens like dust and pollen. Martin Lewis highlighted that a dehumidifier with a 200W power rating could cost as little as 6p per hour to run, based on current electricity rates. These devices are increasingly seen as a smart, cost-effective solution for households looking to reduce their energy bills while improving their living environment. In testing various models, expert Joanne Lewsley identified several dehumidifiers that excel at drying clothes efficiently. The Dryzone 12l dehumidifier stood out for its laundry mode, which dries clothes in around six hours and costs just 4p per hour. This model also includes a H13 HEPA filter, which helps remove airborne irritants like dust and pollen, offering a two-in-one solution for air quality and laundry drying. For larger spaces, Joanne recommended Duux’s smart dehumidifier, capable of extracting up to 20 litres of water in a day. It features a carbon fibre filter that leaves the air noticeably fresher and includes a smart app for control. The device also has a dedicated drying mode for faster laundry times and includes self-cleaning and auto-shut-off features. Another top-performing model was the MeacoDry arete one 20l, which functions as both a dehumidifier and air purifier. It is highly energy-efficient, costing just 3p per hour to run, and can be controlled via an app or Alexa. Its laundry mode ensures clothes dry quickly and without lingering damp smells, making it a popular choice among users.