‘Stop drying clothes on radiators’ as expert warns of Fire Risk

Drying clothes on radiators might seem like a harmless solution during cold weather—but experts say it could be silently damaging your wardrobe and, more seriously, posing a real fire hazard.

Tailoring and fabric care specialists Edit Suits are raising the alarm on this all-too-common habit, which many people turn to out of convenience—without realising the long-term consequences.

While it might feel like an efficient way to speed up drying, the heat from radiators can be too intense for most materials. Garments, particularly those made from natural fibres like wool or delicate tailored pieces, can lose shape, fade, or shrink when exposed to concentrated heat.

But beyond the risk to your clothing, there’s a far more serious danger.

A Growing Cause of Fires in UK Homes

London firefighter Mark Callahan, based in North London, said:
“We’re seeing more and more fires caused by clothes drying on radiators or too close to heaters. It’s especially common in colder months when people are trying to save space and time. But the risk is real—particularly with synthetic fabrics, which can easily overheat and catch fire.”

Synthetic materials such as polyester or acrylic are especially flammable, and heat buildup can happen quickly—especially when garments are layered directly over a hot surface or left unattended for hours.

More Than Just a Fire Hazard

Aside from the fire risk, drying wet clothes on radiators contributes to indoor damp—raising moisture levels in the home. That excess humidity can lead to:

Mould and mildew, which thrive in warm, wet conditions

Peeling paint or plaster caused by condensation on walls and ceilings

Damage to furniture and window frames, especially in older properties

It’s a risk that builds up over time—and one that’s entirely avoidable with a few simple changes.

Smarter, Safer Alternatives for Indoor Drying

Instead of using radiators, try:

A fold-out drying rack placed near (but not touching) a heat source

Flat drying on a towel, ideal for knitwear and delicate items

A dehumidifier, which reduces moisture in the air and helps speed up drying

Professional pressing or cleaning for garments that need to retain their structure

Final Advice

A spokesperson from Edit Suits said:
“If you’ve invested in quality clothing, it makes sense to treat it with care. Drying garments on radiators may seem convenient, but it can cause lasting damage—and in the worst cases, put your safety at risk. There are better, safer ways to protect both your clothes and your home.”