Green Your Laundry

Most of us like to wear neat clothing, use fresh towels and sleep in clean bedding, so no wonder laundry has become a weekly chore. However, spotless appearance can also take a big toll on the environment.

The use of water, electricity and toxic chemical products can leave a huge environmental footprint.  These tips might help you to make choices that are good for the environment and your pocket while keeping your appearance and your hope crisp and tidy.

• Avoid buying clothes that need to be dry-cleaned.  Dry-cleaners often use chemicals that could even be dangerous to your health.
• Consider replacing your older washer to an energy efficient model.
• Use only cold water for washing and wash only full loads.
• Choose eco-friendly laundry detergent in refillable bottles. Try making your own laundry soap.
• Air-dry your clothes.  By hanging your clothes out to dry on a clothesline you will save a lot of energy and your clothes will last longer and retain their color better. Some other ways to reduce energy consumption when drying your clothes.
• Put a retractable clothesline in your basement for the winter months. This will actually help add humidity to the dry winter air in your home as well.
• Use a lower heat setting.
• Wear your clothes more than once before washing them.  That doesn’t go for items that are closest to your body and absorb perspiration, but jeans, sweaters, or skirts definitely do not need to be washed every time you wear them.

Photo Credit: Flickr CC User mommycoddle