How to go Green with Eco-friendly Laundry
Laundry is a basic chore every household tackles, but we seldom think about its impact on the environment and human health. Washers and dryers use a huge amount of water and energy, while the chemicals in detergents, fabric softeners and dry cleaning contribute to water and soil pollution. There are, however, some easy everyday solutions to greening any laundry routine. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Simple Steps to Eco-Friendly Laundry
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Use Energy Star washing machines and dryers. Energy Star is a program developed by the U.S. government to promote the use of energy-efficient products, and switching to these machines saves water and reduces the amount of energy used. This not only helps the environment, it also saves money on energy costs.
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Wash in cold water. Skip the dryer and use drying racks or clotheslines when you can. You will save both energy and wear and tear on your machine.
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Use earth-friendly laundry products made from all-natural ingredients. Make sure detergents do not contain phosphates, which can have a negative effect on the environment. Choose packaging made with less energy and made from recycled materials. Recycle containers when finished.
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Make your own laundry products using vinegar, lemons and baking soda. Borax and glycerin soap shavings is a combination of ingredients that you can use as well. Although the long-term affects of borax on the environment is debatable, research shows it can be an effective and green alternative to traditional detergents and bleach.
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Avoid dry cleaning. Traditional dry cleaners use perchloroethylene, also known as PERC, a toxic chemical that can be hazardous to the environment and human health. Seek out green cleaners when dry cleaning is necessary.
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Reduce the amount of laundry you do. Wear clothes more than once before washing. Use towels multiple times and hang them to dry after a bath or shower.
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Wash in full loads to maximize efficiency. When you must wash a small load, always select the appropriate water level on your washing machine.
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Tips & Warnings
When using borax for laundry, do not ingest or inhale. It can also irritate the skin, so wear gloves and handle with care.
References
- Real Simple: "8 Eco-Friendly Laundry Tips"; Alexandra Zissu
- TreeHugger: How To: Eco-Laundry; 2005
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Frequently Asked Questions About Drycleaning
- Natural News: Dry cleaning is hazardous to health, the environment and personal budget; Cindy Jones-Shoeman; December 2010
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
