Should you use a dryer for pesticide-contaminated clothing?

Using a dryer for pesticide-contaminated clothing is not recommended, and air-drying is indeed preferable. This is primarily because high heat from a dryer can cause pesticides to become aerosolized, potentially leading to the spread of harmful chemicals into the air. Air-drying, on the other hand, minimizes the risk of contamination as it allows the clothing to dry naturally while also helping to reduce any residual pesticide levels through evaporation.

Additionally, air-drying the clothing outside, in the open air, can further help dissipate any remaining pesticide components without the risk of heating them up. It's also important to ensure that any contaminated clothing is handled with care, washed thoroughly, and dried properly to avoid transferring pesticides to other items or exposing individuals to harmful substances. While some may think that using high heat in a dryer could sanitize or eliminate pesticide residues, it may instead create additional exposure risks.