The laundry room is one of the biggest energy and water users in the home. But with a few smart changes to your habits and equipment, you can cut your utility bills and reduce your environmental footprint—without sacrificing clean clothes. Here’s how to make your laundry routine as energy-efficient as possible.

Wash with Cold Water

Heating water accounts for most of the energy used in a wash cycle. Switching to cold water is one of the easiest ways to save energy.

• Cold water works for most loads. Modern detergents are formulated to clean effectively in cold water, even for everyday stains and odors.
• Use warm or hot water only when necessary. Reserve higher temperatures for heavily soiled items, towels, or bedding when someone in the household is sick.

By washing in cold instead of hot water, you can cut energy use per load by up to 80%.

Load the Washer Properly

A half-full washer uses nearly the same amount of energy and water as a full one. Always aim for full loads, but don’t overpack the drum.

A good rule of thumb: you should be able to fit your hand comfortably between the clothes and the top of the drum. Overloading can prevent proper cleaning and strain the machine.

Choose the Right Cycle

Quick or heavy-duty cycles may seem convenient, but they often use more energy and water. Instead:

• Use the “Eco” or “Energy Saver” setting if your machine has one. These cycles take longer but use lower temperatures and less water.
• Skip the prewash unless your clothes are heavily soiled.

Check your washer’s manual to find the most efficient settings for your model.

Spin and Dry Smartly

Drying clothes uses far more energy than washing them, especially if you rely on a dryer. The more water you remove during the spin cycle, the less energy you’ll need to dry.

• Use a high spin speed if your fabrics can handle it.
• Air-dry whenever possible. Hanging clothes on a drying rack or clothesline saves electricity and helps your clothes last longer.

If you do use a dryer, choose an ENERGY STAR® certified heat pump dryer, which can use up to 50% less energy than conventional models. Clean the lint filter after every load to maintain efficiency.

Maintain Your Machines

A well-maintained washer and dryer run more efficiently and last longer.

• Clean the washer’s filter and detergent drawer regularly.
• Run an empty hot cycle with a washer cleaner or vinegar once a month to remove residue and bacteria.
• Check hoses and seals for buildup or leaks.
• For dryers, clean the lint trap and vent to improve airflow and safety.

Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances and Detergents

When it’s time to replace your washer or dryer, look for the ENERGY STAR® label. These models meet strict efficiency standards and can save you hundreds of kilowatt-hours per year.

Also, choose high-efficiency (HE) detergents designed for modern machines. They produce fewer suds and work well in low-water cycles, improving both cleaning and energy performance.

Small Habits, Big Impact

Energy savings in the laundry room come down to everyday choices:

• Wait until you have a full load before washing.
• Refresh lightly worn clothes by airing them out instead of washing.
• Use cold water for handwashing delicate items.

These small adjustments can add up to significant savings on your energy and water bills.

A Cleaner Planet Starts at Home

By rethinking how you do laundry, you can make a real difference for both your wallet and the environment. Use your appliances wisely, choose efficient settings, and make air-drying part of your routine. Once these habits become second nature, you’ll enjoy cleaner clothes, lower bills, and a greener home.