Your laundry can be done the eco-friendly way in just a few simple steps. Find out how to save water and money.
Control the Temperature
About 90 percent of the energy associated with doing laundry is involved in just heating up the water. The solution is to turn that dial to cold and save energy and cut costs.
Wash Full Loads
Even the most energy-efficient machines use 40 gallons of water. When you reduce the number of loads you do each week , you will save water and money. If you are doing eight or more loads of laundry each week, then try skipping just one. It will save over 10 percent on your laundry costs.
Upgrade To Energy Efficient Washer and Dryer
It is not an excuse to replace your current machine if it is running just fine. But if you’re in the market for a new washer or dryer, buying an energy efficient model can save you both water and energy, and lower your bills.
Switch to Natural Detergents and Stain Removers
Natural products are eco-friendly and tend to be free of chlorine bleach, synthetic fragrance, dyes, and optical brighteners. They’re usually plant and not petroleum based. They contain biodegradable surfactants, and are often specifically formulated to perform well in cold water, thus saving the cost for hot water as well. Be sure to read the consider this when shopping.
Choose Non-Chlorine Bleach
Use in the home isn’t quite as harmful for the environment as industrial use, but chlorine bleach can irritate skin and eyes. Most non-chlorine bleach is hydrogen peroxide. You can buy recognized versions, or just stick to the 3 percent version sold in drug stores. If every U.S. household replaced just one 64–ounce bottle of chlorine bleach with non-chlorine bleach, we could prevent 11.6 million pounds of chlorine from entering our environment. It does make an impact.
Rethink Dryer Sheets
The chemicals, counting synthetic fragrances which are found in conventional dryer sheets and fabric softeners are similar to what is found in conventional detergents. They’re largely doubtful for human health and the environment. Don’t even think about recycling those dryer sheets. Skip them entirely or choose eco-friendly ones like Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day lavender dryer sheets.
Hang Clothes to Dry
Keeping your clothes out of a dryer extends their life, reduces energy use, and cuts costs. Line drying can be done year round. Remember not to put dark colors in bright sunlight or they’ll fade. Indoor rack drying during the winter also acts as a humidifier.