A recent survey by Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden found that people value being perceived as clean more than worrying about the environmental impact of doing more laundry than necessary.
Many people still do laundry after they wear their clothes due to the convenience of having many clothes and the industry’s massive valuation of over £2 billion in the UK. Statista also notes a rise in consumer demand for sustainable laundry products as we understand the physical toll our laundry routine takes on the environment.
One simple technique to reduce laundry waste is “airing out” clothes 24 hours after wearing them. This can help disperse any odors and prevent the spread of harmful chemicals into the marine ecosystem. If odors persist, a deodorizing spray can be used.
Steaming garments can refresh them by removing stale smells and smoothing creases without the washing machine or ironing board. Steaming kills 96% of bacteria and releases no microfibers into the water system. Sponging is a quick way to treat visible marks on any garment, and a proper clothes brush with natural bristles is a quick way to remove general dust and debris.
Traditional dry cleaning uses chemicals that release toxins into the air and water supply. Modern dry cleaners use green techniques, but most people can do enough themselves.
Good Housekeeping’s Katie Mortram suggests that exceptions include delicate items, expensive and precious items, or items of sentimental value. Air drying is better for clothes, the environment, and electricity bills, with more people installing old-fashioned laundry hoists or heated airing racks.
Liquid laundry detergent should be outlawed due to its 90% water content and single-use plastic containers. Laundry pods contain water-soluble polymer (PVA), which enters the water system and harms marine life.
The Good Housekeeping Institute rates old-fashioned boxed laundry powder as the most effective washing medium for removing stains. The laundry egg is the most eco-friendly option, with each pack providing 70 washes and refills.
Invest in products with recyclable packaging or refill options for delicate items like silk and cashmere. Oxygen bleach or sodium percarbonate is non-toxic and safe, but supermarkets only sell it in plastic tubs and scoops.
Wash clothes as often as possible, wash underwear after every use, socks, cotton shirts, pajamas, and jeans. Wash them as infrequently as possible for delicate fabrics like wool and cashmere. Bed sheets should be washed once a week or once a fortnight, and towels after three or four uses.
Experts advise common sense washing routines, such as cleaning pants daily and towels every three to four uses. Bed linen can go two weeks between changes, but natural fibers can keep sheets fresher for longer.
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