Which Vented Tumble Dryers in the UK Have Reverse Action?

Reverse action in a tumble dryer means that the drum changes direction every now and then, preventing clothes from balling up and helping them dry more evenly and quickly. It’s a great feature to have, and worth paying a bit extra for since it can save you money in the long run thanks to shorter drying times.

Finding a vented model with reverse action is very tricky and almost all reverse action tumble dryers on the market in the UK are either condenser or heat pump models rather than being vented. Therefore, if having this feature is important to you, it might be a good idea to consider choosing a a condenser or heat pump dryer instead. The only vented dryers with reverse action we could find are a handful of small-capacity models from lesser-known Chinese brands, which you can see below.

 

 

What Is a Reverse Action Tumble Dryer?

In a standard tumble dryer, the drum rotates in one direction during the drying cycle, moving the clothes inside. However, as the name suggests, the drum in a reverse action tumble dryer alternates its rotation.

It periodically changes direction throughout the drying cycle. This helps clothes move in a more even and gentle manner, promoting efficient drying and reducing creasing.

This feature is especially beneficial for delicate or easily creased fabrics, as it ensures they are evenly dried without becoming entangled or excessively wrinkled.

Overall, a reverse action tumble dryer enhances the drying quality and helps maintain the integrity of the clothes.

 

What Are the Benefits of a Reverse Action Tumble Dryer?

A reverse action vented dryer utilises both reverse action tumbling and a vented drying system to provide efficient and gentle clothes drying. Therefore, these appliances offer several benefits that standard dryers don’t, such as:

1. Reduced wrinkling and creasing

The periodic change in drum rotation direction prevents clothes from becoming tightly twisted or tangled together.

This gives the clothes more space and reduces wrinkles and creases in the garments, resulting in clothes that are easier to iron or wear straight from the dryer.

 

2. Gentler drying process

By changing the direction of rotation, clothes are also less likely to get caught on the drum’s walls. This reduces the risk of fabric potential damage to garments.

Fabrics experience less stress and are less likely to suffer from damage or excessive wear during the drying cycle.

Therefore, while beneficial for drying all types of materials, reverse action dryers are particularly useful for drying delicate and sensitive fabrics.

Compared to standard tumble dryers, they reduce the risk of stretching, shrinking, or damage during the drying process.

 

3. More even drying

Reverse action helps distribute the heat and airflow throughout the drum, ensuring that each garment receives the same level of drying.

This helps prevent some clothes from overdrying while others remain damp, enabling the dryer to dry clothes more evenly and efficiently.

 

4. Shorter drying times

As tumbler dyers with reverse action help even drying, they also result in shorter drying times.

Vented dryers also typically dry clothes more quickly than standard dryers, as the heat generated by the heating element accelerates the evaporation of moisture from the clothes.  

Drying times are substantially shorter by combining the reverse action and vented technologies.

Shorter cycles can also potentially lower the tumble dryer’s energy consumption, which is highly appreciated if you want to reduce your washing and drying costs.

 

Should You Buy a Reverse Action Vented Dryer?

Whether you need a reverse action vented tumble dryer depends on your preferences, laundry habits, and priorities.

Here are some considerations to help you decide:

• Fabric care: If you prioritise maintaining the quality of your clothes, especially delicate garments or easily wrinkled fabrics, a reverse action tumble dryer can be beneficial. Meanwhile, vented dryers are perfect for thick fabrics.
• Convenience and efficiency: If you value an even drying process that’s efficient and minimises drying time, a reverse action vented dryer can be a good choice. The alternating drum movement and vented drying system both speed up drying time.
• Ironing effort: If you wish to reduce your time spent ironing, a reverse action dryer can help. By minimising the risk of your clothes getting tangled and reducing wrinkles, clothes are easier to iron. They may not even require ironing at all.
• Garment variety: If you have a diverse range of fabrics and garments in your laundry, a reverse action dryer provides versatility. It’s particularly useful for drying delicate items, towels, bedding, and mixed fabric loads without causing damage.
• Affordability: Reverse-action dryers tend to be expensive, whereas vented dryers are more budget-friendly compared to heat pump or condenser dryers. A reverse action vented dryer is a good way to make the most of reverse action technology for under £300.