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Clean, Fresh and Energy Efficient

Want to stop global warming, reduce pollution, save money and keep your clothes clean? Consider taking a couple simple steps to reduce the amount of energy you use doing the laundry. Step outside and hang clothes out to dry and wash clothes in cold water to reduce your energy bill (and prevent shrinkage).

washer Only 10 percent of the energy used by a typical washing machine powers the motor, 90 percent of energy is used to heat the water. Most clothes will come clean in cold water. For heavily-soiled clothing, 104 degree water is warm enough to get out the toughest stains and always rinse clothes in cold water.

If your clothes washer has spin options, choose a higher spin speed or an extended spin option to wring more water out of your clothes before you dry them.

Line drying clothing is not only energy efficient, it's better for your clothes. Clothes won't shrink on a clothesline and the smell of sheets dried outside in the sun beats any "fresh air" scented dryer sheets. You can use a folding indoor rack all year long. And a hanging drying rack is perfect for small items (especially the ones you might not want blowing in the wind for all the neighbors to see).

If you use the dryer, separate heavy fabrics like towels from lighter ones like sheets so each load gets only as much heat as is needs. Don't add wet clothing in the middle of a drying cycle, it will just take longer to dry. If your dryer has a moisture sensor, use it to automatically shut off the machine when the clothes are dry. Always clean the lint filter in the dryer after each use.

When it's time to buy a new washing machine, look for the Energy Star label. Energy Star models are the most energy efficient appliances, exceeding the government's minimum energy efficiency standards.

An Energy Star washer uses 50 percent less energy than other standard models and uses only 18 to 25 gallons of water for a full-sized load, compared to 40 gallons for a standard washing machine. Both top loading and front loading machines qualify for Energy Star. Energy Star does not label clothes dryers because most models use similar amounts of energy.

Choose a washer with a faster spin speed, more water is removed after the wash, which reduces drying time and saves energy.

Remember to consider the long-term operating costs of appliances and not just the price you pay at the store. Browse Energy Star qualified washing machines on the Energy Star website.


Wash and rinse clothes in cold water. For soiled clothing, select warm water or a temperature of 104 degrees. Dry heavy fabrics like towels separately from light fabrics.	Dry your clothes outside on a clothesline or indoors on racks rather than in the dryer. If you're ready to buy a new washer, consider long-term opeating costs and choose a more efficient Energy Star model.	Make your entire home more energy efficient; start with our tips for the kitchen, living room and laundry room.