6 Creative Solutions for Drying Wet Gear That Adventure Pros Swear By

Stuck with soggy hiking boots, drenched rain jackets, or waterlogged camping gear? Nothing ruins an outdoor adventure faster than wet equipment that refuses to dry.

You don’t need fancy appliances or perfect weather to rescue your damp gear. With a few creative approaches, you can efficiently dry everything from technical fabrics to delicate electronics, even when traditional methods aren’t available.

These six innovative drying solutions will help you tackle wet gear emergencies whether you’re at home preparing for your next outing or need to improvise during an expedition.

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6 Creative Solutions for Drying Wet Gear When You’re in a Hurry

1. The Hair Dryer Method

Your hair dryer isn’t just for your locks—it’s perfect for drying wet gear quickly. Set your dryer to medium heat and keep it moving constantly about 6-8 inches away from your gear. Focus on seams, zippers, and thick areas where moisture tends to linger. This method works exceptionally well for shoes, gloves, and smaller items like socks or hats. Remember to never use high heat on technical fabrics or waterproof membranes as it can damage their protective properties.

2. The Newspaper Stuffing Technique

Newspaper is incredibly absorbent and readily available in most households. Crumple sheets of newspaper and stuff them tightly inside wet boots, shoes, or gloves. Replace the paper every 2-3 hours as it becomes saturated. This method pulls moisture away from your gear while helping maintain shape. For best results, remove insoles and stuff those separately to speed up the entire drying process.

3. The Rice Burial Strategy

Rice works wonders for electronics and small gear items. Fill a large container with uncooked rice and completely submerge your wet items. The rice naturally draws moisture out over 6-12 hours without heat damage. This method is ideal for watches, GPS devices, and small electronic components that got splashed. Just ensure any excess water is shaken off before placing items in rice to maximize absorption efficiency.

4. The Fan Acceleration Setup

Position a portable fan to direct airflow directly onto your wet gear. Hang items on a drying rack or chair backs with space between each piece for maximum air circulation. For faster results, flip items every hour to ensure even drying. This method is especially effective for technical fabrics like rain jackets, synthetic base layers, and quick-dry towels that respond well to consistent airflow.

5. The Towel Roll Method

Lay your wet gear flat on a clean, dry towel. Roll the towel with the gear inside, applying pressure as you roll to squeeze out moisture. Repeat this process 2-3 times with fresh towels. This technique rapidly removes the initial saturation without applying heat. It’s particularly effective for delicate fabrics, wetsuits, and compression garments that shouldn’t be wrung out directly.

6. The Strategic Heat Vent Placement

Position wet items near (not on) heating vents, radiators, or sunny windows. Place gear 12-18 inches away from heat sources on a drying rack to allow warm air circulation without direct contact. Rotate items every 30 minutes for even drying. This passive method works surprisingly quickly for moderately damp gear and requires minimal effort while you attend to other tasks.

Using Household Appliances to Speed Up the Drying Process

Leveraging Your Washing Machine’s Spin Cycle

Your washing machine’s spin cycle can be a game-changer for drying wet gear quickly. Place soaked items like synthetic clothing, small towels, or microfiber gear into the machine and run a spin-only cycle (no water or detergent). This forces water out through centrifugal action, removing up to 80% of moisture in just 2-3 minutes without applying heat to sensitive materials.

Hair Dryer Techniques for Small Gear Items

Hair dryers offer targeted drying for smaller items when used correctly. Hold the dryer 6-8 inches away from wet gloves, hats, or shoes, continuously moving it to prevent heat damage. Use the cool or low heat setting for technical fabrics and Gore-Tex materials. For boots, direct air into openings while stuffing with newspaper to maximize drying efficiency and maintain shape.

Creating a DIY Drying Station in Limited Space

PVC Pipe Rack Construction

Transform affordable PVC pipes into a custom drying rack that fits your space perfectly. Cut pipes to your desired dimensions, connect with elbow joints, and create a freestanding structure with multiple hanging points. This lightweight solution costs under $30, assembles in 20 minutes, and can be disassembled for storage when not needed.

Repurposing Household Items for Vertical Drying

Maximize vertical space by repurposing everyday items like over-door hooks, tension rods, and shower curtain rings. Install a tension rod between cabinets to hang wet gloves and hats. Use shower curtain rings on a clothes hanger for multiple drying points. These solutions require zero permanent modifications while utilizing otherwise unused space above eye level.

Harnessing Natural Elements for Efficient Drying

Strategic Positioning in Sunny Spots

The sun’s natural heat can dry wet gear remarkably fast. Position soaked items in direct sunlight with items spread flat to maximize exposure. For faster results, place dark-colored gear on light-colored surfaces like white towels that reflect additional heat. Remember to rotate items hourly to ensure even drying and prevent UV damage to technical fabrics.

Maximizing Airflow with Fans and Open Windows

Create a cross-breeze drying system by positioning wet gear between two open windows. Place items on a drying rack where air currents naturally converge for optimal moisture evaporation. For enhanced results, add a strategically positioned fan to accelerate airflow across your gear. This method works even on cloudy days when sun drying isn’t an option.

Quick-Dry Solutions for Specific Gear Types

Different types of gear require specialized drying approaches to maintain their performance and extend their lifespan. These targeted solutions address the unique challenges presented by various materials and constructions.

Athletic Shoes and Cleats Drying Methods

Athletic shoes and cleats require special attention when wet. Remove insoles immediately and dry separately to prevent bacterial growth. Position shoes upside down near a fan with crumpled newspaper stuffed inside, changing paper every 2-3 hours. For faster results, alternate the newspaper method with short bursts from a hairdryer on low heat, keeping 8-10 inches distance to protect adhesives.

Moisture-Wicking Fabrics and Special Considerations

Moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester and nylon demand gentle drying techniques to preserve their performance properties. Avoid direct heat sources which can damage the synthetic fibers and reduce wicking capability. Instead, hang items inside-out in a well-ventilated area away from sunlight, which can degrade UV-protective coatings. For expedition-critical base layers, accelerate drying by first rolling items in a clean microfiber towel before air-drying.

Portable Options for Travelers and Outdoor Enthusiasts

Compact Drying Tools That Pack Easily

Travel-sized microfiber towels absorb 7x their weight in water while folding to the size of a smartphone. Packable silicone clothes hangers with built-in clips weigh just 2 ounces each and can attach to almost any surface. Inflatable drying racks expand to hold 4-6 items and collapse to pocket size when not in use. These ultralight options add minimal weight to your pack while dramatically reducing gear drying time.

Hotel Room Hacks for Adventure Travelers

Transform your hotel bathroom into a drying station by hanging wet clothes from the shower rod using dental floss as makeshift clotheslines. Position the desk lamp 12 inches from damp items for gentle heat. Maximize airflow by setting the room’s AC unit to “fan only” mode and arranging gear in its path. Place wet boots upside down over air vents and stuff them with clean hotel room coffee filters to absorb moisture overnight.

Preventing Mildew and Odor While Drying Wet Gear

Tackling wet gear with these creative solutions will keep your outdoor adventures on track regardless of weather conditions. The key is acting quickly when moisture strikes using whatever resources you have available. From newspaper stuffing to strategic heat placement these methods help preserve your equipment’s integrity and extend its lifespan.

Remember that proper drying isn’t just about comfort—it prevents mildew growth odor development and material breakdown that can permanently damage your favorite gear. By incorporating these techniques into your routine you’ll save money on replacements and be ready for your next expedition faster.

Don’t let wet gear slow you down. With these practical solutions you’ll be back on the trail hiking path or playing field in no time flat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I dry wet hiking boots quickly?

Stuff crumpled newspaper inside your boots to absorb moisture and maintain their shape. Replace the paper every few hours as it becomes saturated. Alternatively, position them near a fan or use a hair dryer on medium heat (not too close) for faster drying. Avoid high heat as it can damage adhesives. For optimal results, remove the insoles and dry them separately.

Is it safe to put wet clothing in the dryer?

It depends on the material. Technical fabrics and moisture-wicking materials should avoid high heat as it can damage their performance properties. Instead, use your washing machine’s spin cycle to remove up to 80% of moisture, then air dry. For synthetic clothing, low heat settings are generally safe, but always check the care label first.

What’s the best way to dry electronic devices that got wet?

Immediately power off the device, remove batteries if possible, and bury it in uncooked rice for 24-48 hours. The rice absorbs moisture without causing heat damage. For faster results, place the device near (not directly in front of) a fan to increase airflow. Never use a hair dryer or microwave as these can cause permanent damage.

How can I create a drying system in a small apartment?

Build a custom PVC pipe drying rack for under $30 that can be disassembled for storage. Utilize vertical space with over-door hooks, tension rods, and shower curtain rings. Create a cross-breeze by positioning wet gear between two open windows with fans to accelerate airflow. Bathroom shower rods and bathtub edges also make excellent temporary drying spaces.

What’s the fastest way to dry moisture-wicking athletic wear?

First, roll the garments in a clean microfiber towel to absorb excess moisture. Then hang them inside-out in a well-ventilated area, preferably with a fan nearby to increase airflow. Avoid direct heat sources that can damage the fabric’s wicking properties. For expedited drying, use your washing machine’s spin cycle before air drying.

How should I dry wet gear while traveling?

Pack travel essentials like microfiber towels, collapsible hangers, and portable clotheslines. In hotel rooms, transform the bathroom into a drying station using dental floss as makeshift clotheslines and position desk lamps nearby for gentle heat. Set the AC unit to “fan only” mode and hang items where airflow is strongest. Rotate items regularly for even drying.

Can sunlight damage wet outdoor gear while drying?

While sunlight is excellent for drying and naturally disinfecting wet gear, prolonged exposure can damage some materials. UV rays can degrade waterproof coatings and fade colors over time. Position items in direct sunlight for faster drying but rotate them hourly and remove them once dry. For delicate technical fabrics, opt for bright, indirect light instead.

What’s the best way to dry wet shoes without causing damage?

Remove insoles and dry them separately. Stuff shoes with crumpled newspaper to absorb moisture and maintain shape. Position them upside down near a fan with their tongues pulled forward to maximize airflow. Use a hair dryer on low heat in short bursts, keeping it at least 6 inches away. Never place shoes directly on heaters or in clothes dryers.