Drying clothes outside is a great way to save on energy costs and maintain the freshness that comes with taking clothes straight out of the washing machine. It is also probably one of the most convenient ways of drying a fresh load of laundry, especially for those who do not have a tumble dryer.
Now, with temperatures rising and the sun making a more frequent appearance, drying clothes outside makes sense even for those with a dryer, as it helps keep some money in your pocket. However, for those planning to do a big load this weekend, the Met Office has advised against hanging clothes outside to dry.
The advice comes as the weather agency’s pollen forecast shows that various UK regions are expected to experience high and very high pollen levels over the weekend.
All of our regions in England, except the North-east, are expected to have medium or high pollen levels on Saturday, April 4. The following day will see levels across the South and east of England jump to very high levels, while the pollen levels across the Midlands are forecast to be high, and the North-west and Yorkshire and the Humber are forecast to be at medium levels.
The Met Office notes that UK households should « avoid drying washing outdoors when the pollen count is high ». Pollen easily attaches to clothes, especially when damp, making it more easily transmitted when brought inside and, in turn, worsening the effects of hayfever.
In the UK, it is estimated that 10 million people suffer from hayfever. The allergic reaction to pollen can cause symptoms such as sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and a runny or blocked nose.
The Met Office also advises that those who suffer from hay fever should avoid going outdoors when the pollen count is medium or high.
Pollen season in the UK typically lasts between March and September, and is broken up into three phases. Between March and Mid-May, tree pollen affects around a quarter of people and usually peaks in April.
Therefore, households should check pollen count forecasts to take any necessary measures to stay protected.
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