How to Make Your Laundry Routine More Sustainable

Laundry is a routine task in all households, but its environmental impact is too often overlooked. From energy consumption to water usage and microplastic pollution, the way we wash and dry our clothes has significant ecological consequences. Fortunately, adopting just a few sustainable laundry practices can mitigate these effects. Let’s take a look at how that works.

What makes laundry unsustainable?

Energy Consumption

Washing machines and dryers are among the most energy-intensive appliances in the home. A significant portion of this energy is used to heat water for washing and to power dryers. Using cold water and air-drying clothes can substantially reduce energy usage. For Americans used to dryers, air-drying can seem a bit backwards, outdated, or inconvenient. In reality, however, most of the world still air-dries their clothes. In fact, across Europe, it’s the most common way to do laundry. It takes a bit more time, but you end up saving on the monthly energy bill and eliminating a totally unnecessary environmental burden.

Water Usage

Traditional washing machines can use up to 40 gallons of water per load. High-efficiency models reduce this amount, but frequent washing still contributes to substantial water consumption. Conserving water through mindful laundry habits is essential for a more sustainable routine. Wash more per load and wash less frequently.

Microplastic Pollution

Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon shed microfibers during washing. These tiny plastic particles often bypass wastewater treatment plants and enter waterways, posing risks to marine life and ecosystems. If you’ve been paying attention to the news lately, you’ll probably have noticed the extent to which microplastics have permeated every corner of our lives. They’re turning up more and more in what we eat, in our bodies, and in environmental systems that face destabilization and/or collapse as a result. Nearly all plastics eventually degrade into microplastics, but laundry is a direct, primary culprit for their proliferation.

Chemical Pollution

Many, if not most, laundry detergents contain phosphates and other chemicals that can lead to water pollution. Phosphates contribute to algal blooms, which deplete oxygen in water bodies and cause significant harm to aquatic life and ecosystems worldwide. Bioaccumulating chemicals and toxins are a massive problem in how most of us do laundry today.

How do I do laundry more sustainably?

1. Wash with Cold Water

Heating water accounts for a significant portion of the energy used in laundry. Washing clothes in cold water reduces energy consumption and is gentler on fabrics, extending their lifespan.

2. Use Eco-Friendly Detergents

Opt for biodegradable, phosphate-free detergents that are free from harsh chemicals. These detergents are less environmentally harmful and often come in recyclable or compostable packaging. Green Llama makes incredible water-free, plastic-free, toxin-free detergent that comes in compostable packaging.

3. Install a Microfiber Filter

Adding a microfiber filter to your washing machine can capture microplastics before they enter the wastewater system. Products like the Cora Ball or Guppyfriend bag are designed precisely for this purpose.

4. Wash Full Loads

Running full loads maximizes the efficiency of each wash cycle, conserving water and energy. Avoid overloading the machine, as this can reduce cleaning effectiveness.

5. Air-Dry Clothes

Dryers consume a substantial amount of energy. Whenever possible, air-dry clothes using a clothesline or drying rack. This practice saves energy and reduces wear and tear on garments. If this is one you can’t get behind, consider cutting the single-use dryer sheets out of the picture and opt for reusable dryer balls instead.

6. Choose Natural Fabrics

Natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool prevent the shedding of microplastics that comes with synthetic materials. Selecting clothing made from these materials goes a long way in reducing microplastic pollution. When possible, choose low-impact fabrics from brands that source sustainably.

7. Reduce Washing Frequency

Not all clothes need to be washed after a single wear. Assess garments for visible dirt or odors before deciding to launder them. This approach conserves resources and extends the life of your clothing.

8. Maintain Your Washing Machine

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the lint filter and checking for leaks, ensures your washing machine operates efficiently, conserving water and energy.

Re-evaluating our laundry habits and making conscious choices helps us to significantly reduce the environmental impact of this everyday chore. Implementing sustainable practices benefits the planet and lead to cost savings and longer-lasting clothing. Embracing these changes contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle and a healthier environment for future generations.