How to Create an Eco-Friendly Laundry Routine

Doing laundry is a necessary chore, but it consumes a significant amount of water and energy, and can release pollutants into our waterways. By making a few simple adjustments to your routine, you can make laundry day much more sustainable.

1. Wash Less, and in Cold Water

Not every item needs to be washed after a single wear. Unless it’s stained or smelly, you can likely wear it again. When you do wash, use cold water. About 90% of the energy used by a washing machine goes to heating the water. Modern detergents are designed to work effectively in cold water, so you won’t be sacrificing cleanliness.

2. Wash Full Loads

Washing machines use roughly the same amount of water and energy regardless of the size of the load. Wait until you have a full load to run your machine to maximize its efficiency.

3. Choose an Eco-Friendly Detergent

Opt for a concentrated, biodegradable detergent in plastic-free packaging, like laundry strips or pods in a cardboard box. These reduce shipping emissions and plastic waste. Avoid detergents with phosphates, which can harm aquatic ecosystems.

4. Ditch the Dryer and Fabric Softener

The dryer is one of the most energy-hungry appliances in your home. Line-dry your clothes whenever possible. It saves energy, reduces wrinkles, and makes your clothes last longer. If you must use a dryer, swap single-use dryer sheets for reusable wool dryer balls. They reduce drying time and soften clothes naturally.

5. Tackle Microplastics

Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon release tiny plastic fibers (microplastics) with every wash. Wash these items less, and use a special laundry bag (like a Guppyfriend) or a filter attachment for your washing machine to capture these fibers before they enter our waterways.

These simple changes can transform your laundry routine from a resource-intensive chore into a sustainable habit.