While it is not strictly necessary to turn off the dryer immediately after it has finished drying your clothes, it is generally recommended for safety and energy-saving purposes. Here's why:
Safety: Leaving the dryer running unattended can pose a fire risk. While modern dryers are designed with safety features such as automatic shut-off timers and thermal fuses, it is still best practice to be present when the dryer is operating and to turn it off once the cycle is complete.
Energy efficiency: Keeping the dryer running unnecessarily consumes energy. By promptly turning off the dryer when your clothes are dry, you can save electricity or gas and reduce your energy bills.
Preventing over-drying: Over-drying your clothes can lead to shrinkage, damage, and increased wear and tear. By promptly removing your clothes from the dryer when they're dry, you can help preserve their quality and extend their lifespan.
Avoiding wrinkles: Leaving clothes sitting in the dryer for an extended period after the cycle has finished can result in wrinkles setting in. Removing the clothes promptly and either folding or hanging them can help keep them looking neat and reduce the need for ironing.
It's a good practice to set a timer or reminder to alert you when the drying cycle is complete so that you can promptly turn off the dryer and attend to your clothes.