Can You Put Nylon in the Dryer?

Yes — nylon can go in the tumble dryer, but only on low heat. Nylon is a synthetic fiber with a relatively low melting point compared to other synthetics. High heat in the dryer can cause nylon to melt slightly, creating a shiny, stiff texture, or in extreme cases, cause the fabric to fuse or develop holes. Low heat is safe; high heat is not.

The Right Dryer Setting for Nylon

Low heat: Safe for most nylon garments. The recommended setting.
No heat / air fluff: The gentlest option — completely safe and takes only slightly longer than low heat for lightweight nylon.
Medium heat: Risky — some nylon items may handle it, but the margin for error is small. Not recommended.
High heat: Never. High heat melts nylon fibers, causing permanent damage.

What Happens If Nylon Goes in the Dryer on High Heat?

Melting: Nylon has a relatively low melting point. High heat causes the fibers to partially melt, creating a shiny, stiff, or fused texture.
Shrinkage: Nylon can shrink on high heat, though less dramatically than natural fibers.
Texture damage: The smooth, lightweight feel of nylon is replaced by a stiff, rough texture that can't be reversed.
Static cling: Like all synthetics, nylon generates static in the dryer — more so at higher temperatures.

Nylon Dries Quickly — Air Drying Is Often Better

Nylon is a fast-drying fabric. Most nylon garments — windbreakers, athletic wear, swimwear linings — dry in 1–2 hours on a rack with good airflow. Given how quickly nylon air dries, the dryer often isn't necessary. Air drying eliminates heat risk entirely and extends the life of nylon garments.

A clip fan like the Gaiatop Mini Clip Fan speeds up air drying for lightweight synthetics like nylon significantly.

Common Nylon Items and Drying Recommendations

Nylon windbreakers and rain jackets: Air dry preferred; low heat if using dryer. Check for any waterproof coatings — heat degrades DWR (durable water repellent) treatments.
Nylon activewear: Air dry or low heat. High heat degrades moisture-wicking properties.
Nylon stockings and tights: Never in the dryer — hand wash and hang to dry.
Nylon bags and backpacks: Air dry only — the dryer can damage zippers, buckles, and structural elements.
Nylon swimwear: Air dry flat — nylon swimwear often contains spandex, which is heat-sensitive.
Nylon-cotton blends: Low heat — the cotton component sets the temperature limit.

Tips for Drying Nylon in the Dryer

Always use low heat — never medium or high
Add dryer balls to reduce static: the Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls (Pack of 6) are effective for synthetic fabrics
Use dryer sheets for static control: Gain Dryer Sheets work well on nylon
Remove promptly when the cycle ends — nylon wrinkles if left sitting in the drum
Use a mesh bag for delicate nylon items: the Mesh Wash Bags (4 pack) reduce agitation

Frequently Asked Questions

Does nylon shrink in the dryer?

Minimally on low heat. Nylon is more resistant to shrinkage than natural fibers, but high heat can cause some shrinkage and texture damage. Always use low heat.

Why does nylon get so much static in the dryer?

Synthetic fibers generate static electricity through friction during tumbling. Dryer balls and dryer sheets both help reduce static on nylon.

Can I dry a nylon rain jacket in the dryer?

On low heat, yes — but check the care label first. Many technical rain jackets have DWR (durable water repellent) coatings that are actually reactivated by low heat in the dryer. Follow the jacket manufacturer's specific instructions.

Can nylon go in the dryer with other fabrics?

Yes — use low heat, which is appropriate for most fabrics. Avoid mixing nylon with items that require high heat (like heavy cotton towels) in the same load.

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