How to Use Less Energy When Doing Laundry
Quick answer
Use cooler water when suitable for the fabric and cleaning need, wash appropriately sized loads, and avoid unnecessary drying. Follow garment labels and appliance instructions before changing settings.
Step-by-Step
Match water temperature to the load
Choose cooler washing when appropriate for the fabric, detergent, and cleaning requirements.
Use the machine’s recommended load size
Run suitable loads without overfilling the drum or restricting movement.
Dry only as much as needed
Use permitted drying settings and stop once the load is dry.
Quick Check
Two quick choices. A next step for you.
- 1Your situation
- 2A closer look
What are you facing right now?
Can every load use cold water?
What do the care instructions require?
Should I pack the drum tightly?
Is there room for clothes to move?
Why does my dryer take longer now?
Have you checked the lint filter?
How can I avoid unnecessary drying?
What does the care label allow?
Your next step
Choose your situation to read the advice.
Can every load use cold water?
They allow a lower temperature
Choose the lowest suitable temperature while accounting for specific cleaning or hygiene needs. Follow the garment instructions.
They specify different care needs
Follow the garment instructions and any specific hygiene or cleaning needs. Do not apply one cold setting to every load.
Should I pack the drum tightly?
No, the drum is tightly packed
Reduce the load according to the appliance’s capacity instructions. Leave enough movement for washing.
Yes, but I am unsure of capacity
Check the appliance’s capacity instructions rather than guessing from appearance. Avoid overloading, which can reduce cleaning performance.
Why does my dryer take longer now?
Not since the recent loads
Check the lint filter and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidance. Restricted airflow can affect performance.
Yes, but drying is still slow
Follow the manufacturer’s guidance for further checks. Restricted airflow or other maintenance issues may need professional attention.
How can I avoid unnecessary drying?
Air drying is permitted
Use an appropriate air-drying method allowed by the garment label when practical. Check the label before changing how you dry the item.
I am using the dryer
Choose permitted settings and follow the appliance instructions. Avoid continuing the cycle after the load is dry.
Common Mistakes
Overloading to reduce wash cycles
Overfilled loads may wash poorly and require another cycle to clean properly.
Drying every fabric the same way
Use the garment’s care instructions to avoid unsuitable heat or handling.
Ignoring routine lint filter cleaning
Follow the dryer’s instructions for filter cleaning and safe airflow maintenance.
Important Things to Know
Do not reduce required hygiene measures to save energy. Follow instructions for special fabrics, contaminated laundry, and appliance maintenance.
Bottom Line
Use settings that meet the actual cleaning need. Appropriate loads, suitable temperatures, and avoiding excessive drying offer practical places to start.
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