Rethinking the Way We Do Laundry
Here are laundry habits we adopted or sustained during LNZChallenge4 that we plan to continue moving forward:
Full Loads Only
Running full laundry loads is more energy-efficient and water-saving. As a multi-gen household of 5 people, this maximizes the use of our washing machines, reduces the number of cycles needed, and overall energy consumption.
Use A.I. Feature
Utilizing the Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) features in modern washing machines allows for optimized water and energy usage. These smart features automatically adjust settings based on the load size, fabric type, and degree of soiling, leading to more efficient and eco-friendly laundry cycles.
Cold Wash Only
Washing clothes in cold water instead of hot or warm water reduces energy consumption significantly. The majority of the energy used in laundry comes from heating the water, so opting for cold washes helps save electricity and keeps your clothes in good condition.
Air Dry for the First 40 Minutes
Air drying clothes for the initial 40 minutes of the drying cycle reduces reliance on electric dryers. This step takes advantage of natural air circulation, saving electricity and extending the life of your clothes by minimizing exposure to high heat.
Hang Thick Clothes to Dry Instead of Using a Dryer
Thick or heavy fabrics take longer to dry in a machine dryer, consuming more energy. Air-drying these items by hanging them saves electricity, reduces wear and tear on fabrics, and is gentler on the environment. Every time we wash large bed sheets and comforters – air drying is a must!
Use Dryer Balls Instead of Sheets
This is a habit Madhu introduced to the family two years ago — Dryer balls are reusable and help separate clothes, allowing for better air circulation in the dryer. This leads to faster drying times, reducing overall energy consumption. Unlike disposable dryer sheets, which contribute to waste, dryer balls are a more sustainable option.
Use Baking Soda and Essential Oils Instead of Harsh Products
This is a mix Ameena created and started using this year. Baking soda is an effective, natural detergent booster and deodorizer. Using it and essential oils for fragrance eliminates the need for harsh chemical laundry products. This eco-friendly approach is gentler on the environment and reduces the release of potentially harmful substances into the water system. In the Summer, Ameena enjoys using scents such as Orange and Lemon. In the Autumn, Ameena loves using Nutmeg and Cinnamon. In the Winter, Ameena blends Peppermint and Tea Tree. In the Spring, all of our laundry smells like Lavender and Eucalyptus!