Six tips to save money on laundry

Laundry is not only a tedious chore, but also one of the most costly. The price of energy, water, detergent, etc. add up quickly and need to be factored into your monthly budget. However, with these tips you can save both energy and money in the laundry room.

1. Wash with cold water.

Using cold water instead of hot or warm water can reduce your energy use. Less energy use means that you save on the electricity bill. There are a variety of cold water detergents available on the market to ensure your clothes still get cleaned in lower temperatures. This is also a great way to help your clothes keep their colour and shape after many washes.

2. Air dry your clothes.

Air drying your clothes is one of the easiest ways to cut down on your laundry costs. Hang your laundry outside or on a drying rack to dry rather than using your dryer. Although this method takes much longer, it is completely free and much better for the environment than running your machine.

3. Do the right size load for your machine.

Doing one large load of laundry is much more energy and cost efficient than doing multiple small loads. Fill your washing machine three-quarters of the way to ensure that you get the most out of your load while still cleaning everything. This tip is also applicable to your dryer. Overfilling your dryer means a longer drying time. Read your dryer manual for capacity restrictions for maximum efficiency.

4. Do laundry during off-peak energy times.

Energy companies operate on a “peak hours” system --  energy costs are fluctuate based on consumer demand. Research the off-peak hours in your region and plan to do your laundry then. Although it requires a bit of planning, this tip can help cut down your energy costs drastically.

5. Use less detergent.

Using less detergent is a great way to cut down the costs of laundry supplies. Try using half of the recommended amount per load and see how much longer your detergent lasts. You will most likely not notice a difference in the smell or cleanliness of your clothes and, in the long run, this will help your clothes stay brighter and look better for longer.

6. Wash less often.

Most clothing items do not have to be washed after ever wear. Items like denim, pants and sweatshirts can be worn a few times before washing as long as there are no stains or odours. Like using less detergent, this will not only save you money on laundry but will also help your clothes last longer.

Ready to talk about other ways to help reach your financial goals? Contact me.