An energy efficient laundry day

It’s that time of the week again where laundry baskets are overflowing, and it seems as if you and the kids have nothing left in your closet to wear. While we can’t help you fold and put away the clothes once they’re dry, [INSERT CO-OP NAME] can help you with these five tips to do laundry more efficiently and in turn, save you money on your electrical bill at the end of the month.

Run full loads. Washing and drying fewer, larger loads of laundry uses less energy than washing and drying multiple smaller loads. Wait until you have a full load of clothes, towels or bedding before starting your washer and dryer. Be sure to not overstuff them though that way your items still get clean and dry.

Wash in cold water. Much like handwashing dishes, most of the energy used by your washing machine goes toward heating the water. Using cold water in your washing machine can cut energy use significantly. Most detergents clean just as well at lower temperatures. Plus, cold water is less harsh on your clothes, helping them last longer.

Use high spin speeds. Selecting a higher spin setting helps remove more water from your clothes. That setting reduces the amount of time the dryer will spend on drying the clothes.

Clean the lint trap. A clean lint trap not only improves your dryer’s ability to dry clothes but also reduces the risk of a fire. Make cleaning it out after every load a habit.

Purchase an ENERGY STAR certified washer and dryer. If you are in the market for a new washer and dryer, consider upgrading to an ENERGY STAR appliance. These models use less water and energy, helping you save money in the long run.