Sun-dried clothes may appear cleaner than clothes dried elsewhere due to several factors:
Sunlight's natural bleaching effect: Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) rays that have a natural bleaching effect on fabrics. When clothes are exposed to sunlight, these UV rays help break down and remove organic stains, such as grass, sweat, and some food stains. As a result, the sun can brighten the appearance of clothes, making them look cleaner.
UV rays' antibacterial properties: The UV rays from the sun also have antibacterial properties, which can help kill some bacteria and fungi that may be present on the clothes. This can contribute to a fresher and cleaner smell compared to clothes dried indoors.
Fresh air and ventilation: Drying clothes outdoors exposes them to fresh air and good ventilation. The breeze helps remove odors and ensures that moisture evaporates quickly, preventing musty smells that can occur when clothes are dried in a closed or humid environment.
Reduced exposure to synthetic chemicals: When clothes are dried outdoors, they are not exposed to the chemicals and residues that may be present in some fabric softeners or dryer sheets used in indoor drying methods. This can contribute to a more natural and fresher scent.
Environmental benefits: Drying clothes outside using solar energy (sunlight) is an environmentally friendly option compared to using electric or gas-powered dryers, which consume energy and produce greenhouse gas emissions.
It's important to note that while sun-drying can have these benefits, it may not always be practical or possible, depending on the weather, living conditions, and fabric types. For delicate or sensitive fabrics, it's best to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to maintain the garment's quality.