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There are several ways to increase the efficiency of your washer and dryer. That is, of course, if you own such appliances. As a transient apartment dweller, I've never owned my own washer and dryer. I've always had to haul my dirty clothing to the Laundromat.
In some larger cities, you might be able to find a 'mat that's significantly greener than the competition. (E.g. they use Energy Star appliances and water-saving methods.) However, it may turn out to be a waste of gas to drive across town just to save a little electricity. There are things we can do in almost any Laundromat to save energy.
Simple Ways to Green Your Trip to the Laundromat
1. Do Your Laundry in the Morning or the Evening
Most Laundromats have air conditioning. As a customer, you cannot set the thermostat at a reasonable level, but you can ensure that the Laundromat's air conditioner doesn't use more energy than it has to. Dry your clothes in the cool hours of the morning or evening and you won't strain the AC. Better yet, take your wet clothes home and dry them on a line.
2. Use Residual Heat
Choose dryers that have been used recently. They will be filled with residual heat. These dryers will use less energy to warm up, and you'll use less quarters getting your clothes dry.
3. Clean the Lint Traps
Sure, cleaning the lint trap at a Laundromat isn't your responsibility, but the planet is everyone's responsibility. Before you use a dryer, check the trap. Throw the lint out. Save some energy.
4. Use Eco-Friendly Detergent I've found that eco-friendly laundry detergent is comparable in price to other detergents. There is no excuse for not using these earth-friendly products. It's also one of the easiest green things you can do. 5. Use Vinegar Instead of Fabric Softener Fabric softener often contains toxic chemicals and sometimes animal fat and those fabric-softening sheets can be quite wasteful. Add one cup of vinegar to your final rinse cycle and your clothes will become softened. 6. Choose Front-Loading Machines Front-loading washing machines save energy and water. 7. Use Cold Water Wash your clothes in cold water. Washing in hot water is only necessary for heavily soiled garments. Unless you have a baby, you probably don't need hot water. 8. Wash Full Loads Wash full loads in order to clean more with less.
