Putting a load of wet clothes into an empty tumble dryer is generally safe and should not damage the machine. Tumble dryers are designed to handle wet clothes and efficiently dry them through a process of tumbling and hot air circulation.
When you put wet clothes into a tumble dryer, the machine's drum rotates, and hot air is circulated to remove the moisture from the clothes. The moisture is then vented out of the dryer through a vent or condensed and collected in a reservoir, depending on the type of tumble dryer you have.
However, there are a few important points to keep in mind:
Capacity: Make sure not to overload the dryer beyond its recommended capacity. Overloading can lead to inefficient drying and may cause strain on the dryer's motor and components.
Check for Foreign Objects: Before loading wet clothes into the dryer, double-check that there are no foreign objects, such as coins or metal items, in the clothes. These items can cause damage to the drum or other components during the drying process.
Proper Maintenance: To ensure the longevity of your tumble dryer, follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance and cleaning. Regularly clean the lint filter, and have the dryer's vents and ducts cleaned to prevent clogs and improve efficiency.
Avoid Overheating: Excessive overheating due to blockages or malfunctions can pose a risk, but modern dryers typically have safety mechanisms to prevent such issues. However, it's essential to be cautious and attend to any unusual noises, smells, or malfunctions.
Use the Correct Settings: Different fabrics and materials require different drying settings. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and use the appropriate settings for the specific load of clothes you're drying.
In general, as long as you follow the recommended guidelines, loading wet clothes into an empty tumble dryer should not cause any damage to the machine. It's a convenient way to efficiently dry your laundry, especially during inclement weather or when you don't have access to an outdoor drying space.