Strategies for managing laundry on rainy or damp days
In today's environmentally-conscious world, it's essential to make small changes that can have a significant impact. One such change is adopting sustainable laundry practices. Here are some tips to help you dry your clothes efficiently, reduce energy bills, and extend the lifespan of your garments.
When hanging laundry, it's crucial not to overcrowd the airer. This allows for better airflow and prevents sleeves and pant legs from getting scrunched up. Many clothes aren't suitable for tumble drying, and overdoing it could lead to shrinkage or damage.
A recent report from Sustainability Victoria suggests that jeans should be washed after at least 10 days of wear. However, it's essential to follow the care instructions on your clothes' labels for the best results.
For quicker drying during rainy days, consider combining effective airflow with the use of a dehumidifier. Placing clothes on a drying rack with enough space between items, employing fans or ceiling fans directed at the drying clothes, and using a dehumidifier simultaneously can help speed evaporation and prevent musty smells.
Keeping doors open or creating a natural cross-breeze can also improve fresh air exchange, further lowering the humidity around the laundry. For extra effectiveness, running the washing machine's spin cycle twice before drying can reduce indoor moisture load.
If drying indoors for long periods, consider a dedicated "dry room" with controlled airflow and moisture removal. Metal drying racks are recommended over wooden ones, as they are less prone to warping in humidity. Spacing clothes about 3-4 inches apart can also aid in quicker drying.
Additional tips to combat odors include adding white vinegar or disinfectants during the rinse cycle and avoiding detergent overuse to prevent residue that traps moisture.
By following these tips, you can create optimal conditions—moving dry air over clothes and removing humidity—which is the key to fast, fresh indoor drying during rainy or humid days.
Moreover, overwashing clothes might lead to increased energy bills, especially when using dryers frequently. By washing clothes less often and following care instructions, you can save money on your energy bills and prolong the lifespan of your garments.
CHOICE, an independent consumer advocacy organization, provides consumers with information about what's safe for them and their family and support when something goes wrong or a business treats them unfairly. With no self-interest behind their advice, consumers don't just buy smarter but also get the answers they need. CHOICE is funded by members who value expert reviews and independent product testing.
For thoughts, questions, and discussions, feel free to join the CHOICE Community forum. Together, we can make a difference in promoting sustainable practices and protecting our environment.
[1] Sustainable Laundry Practices: https://choice.com.au/articles/sustainable-laundry-practices [2] Sustainable Clothing Care: https://choice.com.au/articles/sustainable-clothing-care [3] Drying Clothes Indoors: https://choice.com.au/articles/drying-clothes-indoors [4] Indoor Drying Solutions: https://choice.com.au/articles/indoor-drying-solutions [5] Energy-Efficient Laundry: https://choice.com.au/articles/energy-efficient-laundry
In the arena of sustainable lifestyle practices, one can turn to CHOICE, an independent consumer advocacy organization, for advice on maintaining a eco-friendly fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden routine. By adhering to the care instructions on garment labels, consumers not only extend the lifespan of their clothes but also make economical choices by reducing energy bills. Furthermore, incorporating sustainable laundry practices into one's lifestyle can contribute to a greener environment, illustrating the power of personal choice in fostering sustainability.
