More Laundry Tips

Are you looking for ways to make your laundry washing more eco-friendly and healthy? Here are some ideas:

• Always be mindful of water waste. The laundry room is one of the most likely places in your home where waste can occur. One way to reduce water use is to make certain you have an energy-star rated machine. If you are using an older machine, you know it is less efficient simply because of its age and the fact that newer technology has improved. Consider replacing your older model with a more energy efficient one. Older machines use approximately 40 gallons per load versus the newer energy star models which use about 20 gallons. Energy star machines also use less electricity, which reduces overall operating expenses.
• Switch from detergent to powder in your wash. Liquid detergent is about 80 percent water, and the powdered variety contains no liquid. Of course, you'll want to use the most eco-friendly detergent you can for the environment and your health. Good brands include Nature Clean, Bio Kleen, and Country Save.
  
• Instead of placing all your wet laundry in the dryer, use a clothes line in your backyard. When weather does not permit, hang your clothes to dry someplace in your house that is well-ventilated and preferably where it can be near a window and sunlight. Alternatively, you can use the air dry setting on your clothing dryer if you need something to be dried faster, which uses less energy.
• If you do use a dryer for your clothes, choose one that is also energy star efficient.
• Avoid using dryer sheets or fabric softeners, as they are expensive, bad for the environment, and bad for your health. For clean, fresh-smelling, softer clothes add a half cup of white vinegar to each wash load during the rinse cycle. Vinegar has many household uses and is a great natural fabric softener. It is also safe for people suffering with allergies or sensitive skin.