Mia
The average person spends about 6 years of their life doing laundry. This means that we need to find better ways to do it because the current methods are not sustainable. The following tips will show you how to have clean clothes without contributing too much to global warming.
Use Cold Water Whenever Possible
One of the easiest ways to save energy is to use cold water instead of hot. About 90% of the energy used for laundry goes towards heating the water. If your clothes are not very dirty, you can easily get away with using cold water.
You can try using a cold water detergent as well. These detergents are specifically designed to work well in cold water. They are also biodegradable, so they won’t harm the environment. Laundry strips, like tru.earth laundry strips, are especially eco-friendly since they work great in all water temperatures, dissolve completely, and don’t contain phosphates or chlorine. They also remove odors and stains very effectively, so your clothes will be clean and fresh, without any harsh chemicals.
Therefore, it is possible to have clean clothes without spending too much electricity or harmful detergents.
Sort Your Laundry
Sorting your laundry may seem like an unnecessary step, but it can actually save a lot of energy. When you sort your laundry, you can wash similar items together. This means that you won’t have to waste energy heating water for clothes that don’t need it.
For example, you can wash all of your light colors together and all of your dark colors together. You can also wash all of your cotton clothes together and all of your wool clothes together.
On the other hand, you can also save a lot of energy by washing only full loads of laundry. Washing a small load of laundry takes just as much energy as washing a full one, and it uses more water. If you can’t do a full load, then try to at least wait until you have a full basket of clothes.
Use the Right Amount of Detergent
Another way to save energy is to use the right amount of detergent. Excessive amounts of detergent can actually increase your laundry’s environmental impact and are usually the main reason for growing allergy sensitivity, especially for those who have sensitive skin. This is because regular detergents are not biodegradable, and they can also contain harmful chemicals.
Also, you don’t need to use a lot of detergents to get your clothes clean. In fact, you may be surprised at how little you need. A good way to determine the right amount of detergent is to start with half of the recommended amount and then increase it if necessary.
Use a Front Loading Washer
Front-loading washers are more efficient than top-loading washers because they use less water. They also spin the clothes faster, which means that they will dry faster. This is important because clothes that are dried in the dryer use more energy than clothes that are dried outside.
If you have a front-loading washer, then make sure to use the correct setting for your clothes. The high-efficiency setting on your washing machine is the most efficient, and it will save you the most energy. This setting is designed for clothes that are only mildly dirty and don’t need a lot of agitation.
Dry Your Clothes Outside
The best way to save energy when doing laundry is to dry your clothes outside. Not only does this save energy, but it also saves money. Dryers are one of the most expensive appliances to use, and they contribute the most to global warming.
If you don’t have a clothesline, then you can use a drying rack. Drying racks are inexpensive, and they take up very little space. You can also find drying racks that fold up for easy storage. Additionally, you can use a clothespin bag to store your clothespins. This will keep them organized and easy to find.
Use a Dryer Ball
However, if you need a dryer and already have one, then try to shorten the drying time. Dryer balls, for example, are made from natural materials like wool or rubber. They work by separating the clothes and increasing airflow. This means that your clothes will dry faster, and you won’t have to use as much energy.
You can also make your own dryer balls by using old socks or tennis balls. Just make sure to wrap the socks or tennis balls in a soft fabric, like cotton, so that they don’t damage your clothes.
Do Your Laundry at Night
If you can, try to do your laundry at night. This is because the energy used by washing machines and dryers is more expensive during peak hours. By doing your laundry at night, you can save a lot of money on your electric bill.
Usually, the peak hours are from 6 pm to 10 pm. However, this may vary depending on your local utility company. Make sure to check with your provider to see when their peak hours are.
Use a Steaming Iron
If you have to iron your clothes frequently, then opt for a steaming iron. A steaming iron uses less energy than a standard iron, and it works just as well. In fact, a steaming iron can remove wrinkles from your clothes much faster.
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly alternative to a standard iron, then consider using a solar iron. Solar irons are powered by the sun, and they don’t require any electricity. They also come with a storage case that doubles as a charger.
Steaming iron is similar to a steamer. It also uses less energy, and it is perfect for people who have to iron their clothes frequently. Additionally, steaming irons don’t require any electricity to function, which makes them a great eco-friendly option.
There are a variety of ways that you can save energy and money when doing your laundry. By using some of the tips provided, you can make your laundry routine more eco-friendly. From drying your clothes outside to using a steaming iron, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Additionally, solar-powered appliances are becoming more popular, and they offer a great way to reduce your environmental impact. If you’re looking for an appliance that is both eco-friendly and affordable, then consider investing in a solar dryer.
