Our Good Housekeeping Institute cleaning expert recommends using your dryer's Delicate cycle to smooth fabrics and avoid wrinkles. For more specific directions on wrinkle-free drying, consult your ...

High heat = heavy-duty drying. Use the “Regular” or “Heavy Duty” setting for sturdy items like towels and jeans. Medium heat = wrinkle-fighting. “Permanent Press” settings apply medium heat with a ...

In the 18th century, “clothes dryers” meant flame-heated barrels or hand-cranked ventilators. In the 19th century, George Sampson patented the first automatic dryer—suspension rods above a stove.

The ideal cycle will depend on your clothing's fabric, construction and how long it will be in the dryer after the cycle is finished. As crisp and clean as an iron may be at removing wrinkles and ...