Households across the UK are eagerly seeking ways to reduce their **winter energy bills**, and a new innovation backed by money-saving expert Martin Lewis could provide a much-needed solution. The discount retailer Lidl is launching a low-cost gadget next week that promises to help homeowners and renters better manage their heating costs as temperatures drop. This heating-saving device has generated considerable buzz ahead of its release — particularly because it’s received Lewis’s much-coveted seal of approval.
The affordable product aims to maximise heat efficiency while reducing the need to crank up central heating. With household energy bills still significantly high compared to pre-crisis levels, many consumers are looking to gadgets and behavioural adaptations to bring down usage. It’s not a miracle device, but it reflects a growing trend: investing in small changes to make a big difference during winter. And if the early hype is accurate, this gadget just might become one of this season’s must-have household items.
Essential details about the Lidl heating gadget
| Product Name | Silvercrest Heated Airer with Cover |
| Retailer | Lidl |
| Retail Price | £44.99 |
| Release Date | 28th September |
| Energy Cost Per Hour | Estimated under 10p |
| Endorsement | Martin Lewis (Money Saving Expert) |
What the gadget actually does
The product in question is Lidl’s **Silvercrest heated airer**, a foldable, plug-in drying rack designed to warm laundry safely and quickly, using a fraction of the energy required by tumble dryers or radiators. It comes with a thermal cover, which adds an insulating effect to retain heat and accelerate drying. It provides a low-energy alternative for households trying to dry clothes indoors during colder months, especially when hanging garments around the home can contribute to condensation and damp problems.
Lidl’s heating gadget reportedly costs **less than 10p per hour** to use, making it dramatically more energy-efficient than conventional tumble dryers. According to the Energy Saving Trust, a standard tumble dryer could cost around £1 per use — stacking up considerably over a whole winter season. The Silvercrest model reportedly has sufficient space to hang a full load of laundry, and the cover helps retain warmth, doubling overall efficiency and enhancing warmth in the surrounding space.
Why Martin Lewis recommends it
**Martin Lewis** has long educated the public on low-energy appliance alternatives and behavioural strategies to reduce household costs. He’s previously praised items such as heated airers, electric blankets, and thermal curtains as part of the “heat the human, not the room” philosophy. Lewis has reiterated that laundry habits are a key area where households overspend each winter, especially when using energy-guzzling tumble dryers or over-relying on heating systems just to dry clothes.
“If you’re drying clothes indoors, a heated airer with a cover is one of the most cost-effective tools you can use. It’s about using less energy over longer periods instead of short, high bursts that spike your bill.”
— Martin Lewis, Consumer Champion
Lidl’s offering is not only significantly cheaper than high-end alternatives sold online but also accessible via local stores. Consumers have become more budget-conscious, and Lewis himself regularly reminds people that money-saving often comes down to **making smart purchases that pay for themselves long-term**. This item fits perfectly within that framework.
Comparing it to other drying options
It helps to place the **heated airer** in context with the most common drying methods used in UK households today.
| Drying Method | Energy Use | Estimated Cost per Use | Drying Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tumble Dryer (vented or condenser) | High | £0.75–£1.15 | 1–2 hours |
| Radiator Drying | Moderate (plus heating system cost) | Variable | 2–4 hours |
| Heated Airer (Silvercrest) | Low | Under £0.10 per hour | 3–5 hours |
| Outdoor Drying | None | Free | Weather dependent |
Outdoor line drying remains cheapest but is often not a practical solution in winter months. Radiator drying can damage paint and exacerbates damp issues due to air moisture. The Lidl heated airer offers a **controlled environment** for drying while keeping electricity use manageable.
Who benefits most from this product
Households with limited space who are unable to dry items outside — especially renters, flat dwellers, and families with young children — will benefit the most from using a compact heated airer. The included cover provides insulation benefits, reducing the time needed for drying and thereby minimising cost. Those with health conditions also benefit, as persistent dampness or mould caused by indoor drying without airflow can trigger allergies and respiratory issues.
| Winners | Losers |
|---|---|
| Budget-conscious families | Households needing rapid bulk drying |
| Renters in damp-prone flats | People with severe space limitations |
| Eco-conscious consumers | Those looking for ultra-fast drying |
Tips for maximising efficiency
To get the most from the Lidl Silvercrest heated airer:
- Use the cover. It dramatically reduces warm air loss and speeds up drying.
- Don’t overload. Spread clothes evenly with space for airflow.
- Rotate items. Flip heavier garments halfway for consistent drying.
- Use a dehumidifier. Speeds drying and helps reduce condensation when drying indoors.
It’s also worth drying clothes overnight or during off-peak electricity hours if your tariff allows. In some households, using this method exclusively could save upwards of **£100 annually**, compared to daily tumble dryer use over winter months.
“Drying laundry efficiently isn’t just about lower bills — it’s about healthier homes. Over-damp interiors during winter can lead to black mould, one of the top causes of respiratory illness in colder seasons.”
— Dr. C. Harwood, Environmental Health Specialist
Availability and purchase options
According to Lidl’s weekly brochure, the **Silvercrest Heated Airer** will arrive in UK stores on **Thursday 28th September**, and will retail at **£44.99**. The product is anticipated to sell quickly, given past demand for similar household gadgets and the current cost-of-living pressures affecting millions across the country.
Lidl often rotates its “Middle of Lidl” offers, and it’s unclear how long the item will be in stock this time. Many past examples have sold out within days, especially when backed by widely trusted consumer advocates like Martin Lewis. Shopping early on launch day or contacting your local store ahead of time may be the best bet.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to dry clothes on the Lidl heated airer?
Drying time varies depending on fabric type and ambient temperature but generally falls between 3–6 hours, especially with the thermal cover in use.
Can I use this instead of a tumble dryer completely?
For many smaller households, yes. While it may take longer, the energy savings and gentler drying process make it a great replacement for most needs.
Is it safe to leave the heated airer on overnight?
If used according to the manufacturer’s instructions, it can be left on overnight. Always follow safety guidelines and avoid overloading.
How much electricity does this airer use per hour?
It’s estimated to use around 230 watts per hour, translating to under 10p/hour based on typical unit rates.
Will it heat the room as well?
It generates ambient warmth, especially with the thermal cover on. While it won’t replace a heater, it can raise room temperature slightly.
Does the Lidl Silvercrest heated airer fold away easily?
Yes, it is designed to be compact and foldable, ideal for homes with limited storage space.
Is it available to buy online?
Lidl’s promotional items are typically only available in-store, and availability may vary by location.
Can I use a dehumidifier with it to speed up drying?
Yes, pairing a dehumidifier with your heated airer can further reduce moisture and shorten drying time.
