Enviro-Friendly Laundry

The laundry room is one of the easiest rooms in the home to turn into a more environmentally-friendly haven. With changes both big and small, the laundry room has vast potential to be more cost efficient and Earth conscious.

Washers and Dryers

Typical indoor water usage is estimated to average 80-100 gallons per person per day in homes without efficient fixtures according to the U.S. Department of Energy's 2006 Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy report. Front-loading washing machines use up to one-third less water and energy than the standard top-loading model.

Front loading washers and dryers are initially more expensive, running $600-$1,200, as compared to traditional washers and dryers at $300-$1,000. However, they generally hold more clothes at a time, in addition to using less energy, water, and detergent. This both saves money in the long run and is kinder to the environment.

In addition to larger changes like moving to high-efficiency washing machines and dryers, there are fairly simple methods to reduce water and energy usage. Run only full loads or adjust the washing machine dial for different load sizes on washing machines. Whenever possible, wash clothes in cold water; still use pre-wash and hot loads for extremely dirty laundry, but it generally is not necessary every time. Clean out the lint filter after every dryer cycle as lint accumulation is both a fire hazard and diminishes the dryer’s efficiency. Thoroughly clean the lint filter with a nylon brush and soapy water every couple of months to get rid of any film build up.

Detergents, Fabric Softeners, and Stain Removers

Numerous studies have found that laundry detergents are slow to biodegrade in the environment. Brands of liquid detergents such as Method, 7th Generation, and Purex Free and Clear are eco-friendly and highly-concentrated so consumers use less. The formulas are derived from natural ingredients and come in recycled and recyclable packaging. Though seeming more expensive, the cost is actually on-par with traditional detergents because the high concentration means more wash loads per bottle. Additionally, the high efficiency (HE) front loader machines use a higher-concentration detergent, and therefore, require less detergent per load.

The same biodegradable detergent and pollution issues exist with stain removers and fabric softeners. Natural products like vinegar, Borax, or glycerin mixtures (1 cup glycerin to 1 gallon of water) act as fabric softeners. Add ½ cup of vinegar, ¼ cup of Borax, or ½ cup of the glycerin mixture to your detergent as a laundry booster. 7th Generation and Method make fabric softeners. For stains, make a paste of Borax and water or paste of baking soda and water, use similarly to a traditional stain remover and re-apply as necessary, or Oxy-Boost and Stain-Free break down stains to remove them from the garment, without using chemicals typical to commercial stain removers. These products are gentler on the skin as well as to clothes and the Earth.

Lighting

Whether laundry is in the basement, a dedicated room, or just a closet, odds are you turn on the light when you start doing laundry. Switch a compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulb for of the traditional incandescent bulb in your light fixture. The CFL bulb uses approximately 75 percent less energy and lasts as long as 7 years, which is good for both your wallet and the environment.

Determining Impact

Making more environmentally-conscious decisions begins at home, and implementing any or all of these changes has a big impact on a cleaner environment. Simultaneously, you’ll save money now and help protect the Earth for later. For further information, the U.S. Geological Society has an interactive tool to help consumers determine their levels of water usage and the EPA Energy Star site lists recommended appliances and potential savings.

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