Save Energy When Doing Laundry: Choose the Right Temperature, Load the Machine Properly, and Build Good Habits
Save Energy When Doing Laundry: Choose the Right Temperature, Load the Machine Properly, and Build Good Habits
Doing laundry is part of everyday life, but it’s also one of the biggest energy users in most households. The good news is that with a few simple changes, you can cut down on electricity, water, and costs—without sacrificing clean clothes. Here’s how to make your laundry routine more energy-efficient by choosing the right temperature, loading your machine properly, and building smart habits.
Choose the Right Temperature
Many people still wash most loads in hot water, but that’s rarely necessary. Modern detergents are designed to work well in cooler water, and lowering the temperature can make a big difference on your utility bill.
- Cold water (around 60°F) is usually enough for everyday clothes that aren’t heavily soiled.
- Warm water (90–110°F) works well for towels, bedding, and underwear that need a deeper clean.
- Hot water (130°F or higher) should be reserved for items that need sanitizing—like cloth diapers, cleaning rags, or laundry from someone who’s been sick.
Washing in cold water instead of hot can cut your energy use for that load by half or more. It’s one of the easiest ways to save energy at home.
Load the Machine Properly
A half-full washing machine uses nearly the same amount of energy and water as a full one. To get the most out of each cycle, fill the drum efficiently—but don’t overstuff it.
A good rule of thumb: leave about a hand’s width of space at the top of the drum. That gives clothes room to move so detergent and water can circulate properly. Overloading can lead to poor cleaning results and may force you to rewash items, wasting both time and energy.
If you often wash smaller loads, consider a washer with automatic load sensing, which adjusts water and energy use based on the size of the load.
Use the Right Settings
Quick or “speed wash” cycles may seem convenient, but they often use more energy because they rely on higher temperatures. Instead, choose the eco or energy-saving cycle, which runs longer at a lower temperature. It’s gentler on fabrics and better for the environment.
Skip the prewash unless clothes are heavily soiled. For most stains, pretreating with a small amount of detergent or stain remover before washing works just as well.
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Dry Clothes Efficiently
The dryer is one of the biggest energy consumers in the home. Whenever possible, air-dry your clothes—either outside or on a drying rack indoors. It saves electricity and helps your clothes last longer.
If you do use a dryer, spin clothes thoroughly in the washer first to remove as much water as possible. Clean the lint filter before every load; a clogged filter reduces airflow and increases drying time. You can also use dryer balls to help clothes dry faster and reduce static.
Build Good Habits
Small changes in your laundry routine can add up to big savings over time:
- Wait until you have a full load before running the washer.
- Sort clothes by color and fabric type to avoid unnecessary rewashing.
- Use the right amount of detergent—too much can leave residue and require extra rinsing.
- Wash during off-peak hours if your utility offers time-of-use rates; it can lower your energy costs.
- Maintain your machine by running an occasional hot cycle with no clothes and a bit of vinegar or washing machine cleaner to remove buildup.
Small Steps, Big Impact
Saving energy when doing laundry doesn’t mean overhauling your entire routine. By washing in cooler water, loading your machine efficiently, and adopting a few mindful habits, you can reduce your household’s energy use, save money, and extend the life of your clothes.
It’s good for your wallet, good for the planet, and good for the fabrics you wear every day.
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