Save Water, Energy, and Money When Washing Clothes

Approximately 14% of our household water is used to wash clothes. To save water, time, and money, follow a few simple rules:

1. Try a shorter wash - the newer washing machines and detergent are so much more efficient than what most of us grew up. Most of us grew up with inefficient washers and expect that our current washer works the same. Old habits are hard to break! Try a shorter wash and see how it works!



2. Only wash full loads



3. When your washing machine dies, buy a new front loader - they are far more efficient

When washing clothes about 90% of the energy used is to heat the water. Reduce this by washing with cold water. Again, the washing machines and detergent are so improved over the last few years that warm/hot water is almost never needed anymore.

Finally, hang your clothes to dry. In dry climates, especially in winter, this doubles as a way to keep the air a bit more humid.