Eco Laundry Products
The laundry room contains one of the most heavy concentrations of chemical concoctions in any home. Most people have no idea what is actually in the detergent, stain remover or dryer sheets they use to clean their clothes. Whether your primary concern is the chemicals you put in the groundwater with every load or the packaging you send to the landfill, there is a wide range of choices for eco-friendly laundry products. Does this Spark an idea?
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Detergents
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The primary job of any detergent is to remove dirt from the fibers of your clothes. Most detergents marketed as eco-friendly do a fine job, but you may notice less brightness. This isn't because your clothes aren't as clean. Mainstream detergents contain optical brighteners, fluorescent particles that absorb ultraviolet light and emit visible light. These particles create the illusion of brighter colors and whiter whites. They can also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals and poison fish and plant life in the waterways. Look for detergents without added fragrances, dyes, and optical brighteners. Your clothes will be just as clean without the added chemicals.
Stain Removers
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While it is convenient to have one stain remover for every spot of dirt, there are safer and more eco-friendly ways to remove most stains. A paste of vinegar, hydrogen peroxide and baking soda will remove many stains. Dairy-based stains such as ice cream and chocolate may require an enzyme soak. To remove persperation stains, use an all-natural shampoo.
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Fabric Softeners
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Liquid fabric softeners and dryer sheets are designed to lessen the amount of static generated in the dryer, soften clothes and avoid wrinkles. Most also contain petroleum-based chemicals that do not biodegrade. All-natural dryer sheets are available at specialty stores and online. PVC-free plastic dryer balls are a great reusable alternative to dryer sheets. Dryer balls loosen fabric and can shorten drying time by 25 percent, which lowers your energy consumption.
Appliances
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Choosing energy-efficient appliances is a good way to lessen the impact your laundry has on the environment. Front-loading washers use less water and energy than top-loading models. Look for a washer with an Energy Star rating from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy. If you live in an area that allows it, a clothesline is the most environmentally friendly way you can dry your clothes. Drying your clothes on the line requires no fossil fuels. This method is dependent upon the weather, but every load you can dry outside saves energy.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit portrait of a sweet girl with the clothesline image by joanna wnuk from Fotolia.com
