Washers and dryers are among the guiltiest household appliances when it comes to energy consumption.  While there is no way to get around actually doing laundry, there are many things that can be done to reduce its harmful effects.   

Front vs. Top Loading Washers.

If you are replacing your old top loading washer, consider purchasing a front loading one.  While they tend to be pricier, this cost will be recouped over time as they use substantially less water and can accommodate larger loads.  In addition to using less water in the washing process, they tend to remove more water during the spin cycle, which reduces the amount of time needed to dry them.  The agitator in the centre of a top loading washer is very hard on clothing, and if garments get caught on it, they can be stretched beyond recognition.  The absence of an agitator in a front loader results in a machine that is gentler on clothing.

Reduce Water Temperature.

Regardless of what kind of washer you own, using cold rather than hot water significantly reduces energy consumption.  In fact, compared to a load washed in cold water, one washed in hot can cost as much as five or ten times more.  Unless your clothing is very dirty, you can get them just as clean in cold water by promptly pre-treating stains, using the pre-soak setting on your washer, and not overfilling loads.  And if you do happen to have a heavily soiled load that you must wash in hot water, always opt for a cold water rinse.

Load Size. 

It is a good idea to keep an eye on the size of the loads you are washing.  Oversized loads not only put a strain on the machine, but also tend not to properly clean clothes which can result in running a load twice.  Loads which are too small are simply a waste of electricity.  It is best to figure out the maximum amount of laundry your washer can comfortably handle, and always wash load of that size.

Detergents and Fabric softener.

In discussions regarding the environmental effects of laundering, the emphasis is generally on water and energy consumption, but considering the cleaning agents you use is also important.  One thing you can do is look for detergents which are sold in concentrated form.  It is also worthwhile to get into the habit of using less than the recommended amount of detergent when washing items that are not heavily soiled. You will not notice a difference.  Buying concentrated detergent and using less of it means reducing plastic waste, and reducing emissions from the shipping process.

When it comes to fabric softener, ¼ cup of white vinegar is an effective and natural substitute, and also helps to remove odours and soap residue.  By using vinegar, you can avoid the harsh artificial chemicals and waste created by fabric softeners. Drying. 

The most environmentally and financially sound choice when it comes to drying clothing is to hang them.  Not only is this an entirely free option, but it has no negative environmental consequences whatsoever.  Retractable clotheslines and foldable drying racks are practical and inexpensive items that can be used indoors or out.   And if you must use the dryer, be sure to empty the lint trap with each load to keep your dryer running as efficiently as possible and avoid creating a fire hazard (and don’t forget to compost the lint!). 

Use the Laundromat.

 If you really feel it is necessary to wash your clothes in hot water or to dry your clothes in a dryer, consider doing so at the laundromat if you live near one.  The machines in laundromats tend to be more energy efficient than household ones (although this is changing), and in the long run it will be cheaper for you to pay the flat rate for the load rather than paying for the electricity and hot water on your utilities bills.

There are clearly many steps you can take toward greening your laundering practices.   Even if you start out just doing one or two things differently, you will have a positive effect on both the environment and your household budget.

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