I remember fondly the clothesline at my grandma's house. It seemed that no sheets were ever crisper or fresher than those swaying in the suburban breeze, as public an ode to cleanliness as I can ever recall.
And as years have passed and drying clothes out-of-doors became less common – perhaps even déclassé – it seems the tide is turning once again (pun intended).
Basically, of all the simple things you can do to reduce your home's electricity usage, it's drying your clothes on racks or by hanging them outside. The dryer uses power second to only the refrigerator and, well, that appliance is kind of pertinent (although you could consider a smaller one!).
Another energy consumption cutter is to wash clothes in cold water (bonus – it keeps clothes looking way newer way longer).
When you purchase a new washer and dryer, just repeat, "EnergyStar, EnergyStar, EnergyStar." Or even better, a high-efficiency dual washer/dryer – they are significantly more expensive, but if you can swing it, it's the way to go.
And as for detergents and fabric softeners, send your suggestions to metromode via kelli@issuemediagoup.com. We're planning a story about cleaning products and the like in the coming weeks.
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
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