When it comes to keeping our clothes clean, there are ways that can be kinder to our planet, here are some things to consider when tacking that never ending mountain of clothes Washing

• Consider washing at a lower temperature – we’ve probably all known for a while now that clothes can be washed at 30 degrees with most detergents and the clean is still as effective.

Some fibres are weakened by the heat of hot water so by washing cooler and reducing how many times you wash, you’ll not only save energy but also keep the ultimate go-to garment in your wardrobe for longer!

• Think about whether it really needs washing? Does your favourite skirt really need to be washed? Could your comfiest bottoms be worn one more time for that Zoom meeting where no one can see you from the waist down?

We’re not suggesting you rewear your smalls but do your skinny jeans really need that spin cycle just yet? Did you know that if you rinse your jeans in cold water and let them air dry you’ll get that same just washed fit that you love?! Detergents and washing powders There are a few things to consider when choosing your washing powder and detergents like the products carbon footprint, the ingredients and the packaging. For example some products might be completely natural but can’t be grown in the UK or use plastic packaging for example.

• Packaging, refills and plastic free 

The very simplest thing you can do is to look at the packaging of your laundry products, can you reduce the amount of plastic you are buying by opting for a product with sustainable packaging or taking your empty bottle to your local refill shop. Ecover are an ethical brand using plant based ingredients, cruelty free and their box is made of 95 % recycled cardboard. 

• Delivered to your door options

There are many products that can be delivered straight to your door and washing tablets are one of them,Smol claims to be the most concentrated laundry capsule in the world is eco-friendly and cruelty-free and fits through your letterbox too.

• Get rid of detergent completely – 

Ego Egg is the complete replacement for laundry detergent and fabric conditioner. Using two types of natural mineral pellets encased in a refillable egg, Ego Egg is Vegan, Cruelty free and made in the UK.

• Make your own – If you’re feeling brave then you could make your own washing powder – there are numerous recipes that can be found with a simple internet search!

Drying Weather in the UK might not be the most predictable, or reliable for that matter, but never the less there are many days a year when we could peg our washing out to dry. Reducing the amount of time that you put the heating to dry clothes or turn the tumble dryer on can really help.

• Washing lines and drying spinners

Perhaps you already have posts set in your garden for a washing line but if not , why not try a drying spinner? They pack away in a handy cover to stow away in the shed so it isn’t intrusive in between washes, plus some can hold as much as two full loads! It’s worth shopping around as there are many options that could suit you from a simple cord to a retractable line that packs away hassle free when you’re not using it or a spinner like mine.

• Peg it out

It’s always frustrating when you go to hang the washing out and the plastic peg just snaps in your hand – meaning yet another trip to buy more pegs. Instead of buying plastic, consider wooden options too – we love the old vintage dolly pegs! If you do have plastic pegs, then to ensure they last longer keep them out of the sunlight and away from the rain when they are not in use. Ironing This has to be one of the most hated chores by many across the UK! Here’s some tips to make this chore more friendly to our planet.

• Why not consider how you are hanging your washing out and how you are folding them to reduce the amount of items that need to be ironed – how your items are washed and dried, directly impacts whether they need ironing or not.
• Air dry your clothes on hangers to help reduce creases and the need to be ironed – or simply fold clothes once dry instead of throwing them into a pile. 
• Organisation – put your clothes into piles starting with the ones that require to be ironed on the lowest temperature first – gradually work up to the hotter temperatures to save you time, money and reduce energy usage.

Quick, top tips: 

•  Only wash when you need to
• Fill your washing machine to it’s load capacity or use an eco-setting if you have one
• Turn the temperature down
•  Dry naturally
• Reduce the amount of plastic you are buying by opting for products with sustainable packaging
• Look at your washing and drying technique to reduce your ironing pile