How to save money on laundry

Here's how to save some money on laundry day!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. LINE DRY
   
   If you have time and are able to, line dry your clothes. Depending on how much laundry you do a month, you can save up to $50 or more on your electric bill. If you have some extra space and hang dry your clothes indoors during the winter, you will also add a little more moisture to the air.

2. WASH ONLY WHEN YOU HAVE FULL LOADS
   
   By waiting until you have full loads, you'll use less energy, soap, and water.

3. CUT DRYER SHEETS IN HALF
   
   I've found that if I cut the sheets in half, my clothes are still soft, have less static, and smell great!

4. USE COLD WATER OFTEN
   
   I wash just about everything in cold water except for things that need to be sterilized. Those I use warmer water and some bleach. By using cold water, I'm saving energy that would've been needed to heat the water.

5. BUY POWDERED SOAP
   
   I've found that it's cheaper by the ounce to buy powdered vs. liquid soap.

6. USE LESS SOAP
   
   I usually use half a scoop of soap. Everything still comes out clean, looking good and smelling fresh.

7. IF YOU HAVE A FEW LOADS, WASH THEM BACK TO BACK
   
   By washing one load after another, your dryer will stay warm going from load to load. Therefore, your items will take less time to dry and you'll be using less energy.

8. USE SUBSTITUTES FOR LAUNDRY SOAP AND SOFTENER
   
   A cup of white vinegar can be added to the rinse cycle in place of pricey fabric softener.
   
   If you feel up to it, you can even make your own detergent for cheap! (I haven't been brave enough to try this but a lot of people seem to like it!) http://www.thesimpledollar.com/2007/03/15/how-to-make-your-own-laundry-detergent-and-save-big-money/