The time you should let your towels and clothes air dry outside before putting them in the washing machine can vary depending on several factors, such as the weather conditions, the type of fabric, and how dry you want the items to be before washing. Here are some general guidelines:
Weather conditions: If it's a sunny and windy day, the clothes and towels will dry faster compared to a cloudy and humid day. Sunlight helps to kill bacteria and remove odors naturally.
Fabric type: Lightweight fabrics like thin cotton shirts or linen may dry quickly, while heavier items like jeans or thick towels may take longer.
Desired dryness: Some people prefer to air dry their clothes until they are completely dry before washing, while others may leave them slightly damp. It's a personal preference and may also depend on whether you plan to line dry or machine dry them after washing.
As a rough estimate, on a sunny and windy day, it may take 1 to 3 hours for lightweight items to dry thoroughly, while thicker items like towels might take 3 to 6 hours or more. However, please keep in mind that these are approximate times, and actual drying times can vary widely based on the factors mentioned above.
It's important to avoid leaving clothes or towels outside for too long, especially overnight, as exposure to dew, moisture, or rain can lead to musty odors and even mildew growth. If you're uncertain about the dryness, it's better to err on the side of caution and not let them stay outside for an extended period.
If you want to prevent wrinkles and make the washing process more efficient, you can shake out the items before bringing them inside and placing them directly into the washing machine.