10 Eco-Friendly Laundry Tips

Make your laundry routine more sustainable with these eco-friendly tips that also save you money.

1. Wash in Cold Water

• Saves 90% of energy used for heating
• Prevents colors from fading
• Reduces shrinkage
• Modern detergents work great in cold water

2. Only Wash Full Loads

• Maximizes water and energy efficiency
• Reduces number of wash cycles needed
• Saves time and money
• Better mechanical action for cleaning

3. Use Eco-Friendly Detergents

Look for detergents that are:

• Biodegradable
• Phosphate-free
• Made from plant-based ingredients
• Concentrated formulas (less packaging)

4. Skip the Dryer When Possible

• Air drying saves energy completely
• Extends clothing lifespan
• Reduces static and wrinkles naturally
• Fresh air smell without fabric softener

5. Clean Your Machines

• Run monthly cleaning cycles
• Clean lint filters after every use
• Wipe door seals regularly
• Maintains efficiency and extends machine life

6. Use Dryer Balls

• Reduces drying time by 25%
• Natural alternative to dryer sheets
• Reusable for years
• Softens clothes naturally

7. Wash Less Frequently

Not everything needs washing after one wear:

• Jeans: 5-10 wears
• Sweaters: 5 wears
• Pajamas: 3-4 wears
• Bras: 3-4 wears

8. Pre-treat Stains Naturally

• Baking soda for odors
• White vinegar for buildup
• Lemon juice for brightening
• Salt for fresh stains

9. Choose Quality Over Quantity

• Buy durable clothing
• Repair instead of replace
• Invest in timeless pieces
• Reduces textile waste

10. Time Your Laundry

• Use off-peak energy hours
• Take advantage of solar energy during day
• Batch similar items together
• Plan laundry around weather for line drying

Small changes make a big difference. Start with one or two tips and build from there!