We use a washing machine on a daily basis, but how often do we think about using it in a proper and environmentally friendly way? It is worth keeping in mind a few important things to build the habit of doing laundry so that it is energy efficient and friendly for the environment and for the washing machine.

Checking the clothes

To prevent damage to the clothes and the washing machine, check the clothes pockets and other places for items such as coins, keys or tissues before loading the machine. To avoid damaging the garment, make sure to zip it up and button it before washing. It is recommended to wash delicate items in a mesh wash bag for protection. To keep the integrity of the fabric longer, it is advisable to wash jeans and other denim clothing inside out and choose a water temperature not exceeding 40 °C and a lower spin speed.

Overloading

One of the most common mistakes is to cram too much laundry in one wash, which can cause damage to the machine. Besides, the detergent may not rinse out completely, leaving residue on the clothes. It should be remembered that the rated capacity of the machine or the maximum amount of laundry can only be loaded in the standard Cottons mode. The amount of laundry to be loaded in other wash programs is different. For example, if a washing machine has a rated capacity of 6 kg, the maximum load of the laundry is 3 kg in the Synthetics 30-40 °C program, 1.5 kg in the Delicates program and only 1 kg in the Hand Wash program. The amount of laundry allowed in each program is indicated in the manual of the machine.

Laundry detergent

If we want to have clean laundry, we cannot do without laundry detergent, and it is worth knowing which detergent cleans the laundry in the best possible way, causing the least damage to humans and the environment. Conventional laundry detergents contain chemicals such as synthetic fragrances and colourants, phosphates, bleaches and surfactants derived from petroleum products, which produce volatile compounds. Inhaling them on a regular basis may result in allergies, respiratory diseases and other health problems. In contrast, ecological detergents contain plant-based raw materials and clean the laundry equally well.

And what kind to choose: powder, pods or liquid? Powder usually contains more harmful substances and is less soluble in water. Pods are easy to use, but cannot be measured out depending on the amount of laundry and the soil level. In turn, liquid detergents are easy to dose and are water-based, so they dissolve better without leaving residue on the clothes.

As is the case with overloading the washing machine, the amount of laundry detergent is often chosen incorrectly too. The amount of detergent should be selected depending on the hardness of the water, the load of laundry and the soil level. If you add too much of the product, the clothes will not become cleaner, but on the contrary – the detergent will not rinse out completely and the clothes will wear out more quickly. Besides, too much of the detergent causes damage to the washing machine, as it contributes to increased residue in the tub which cannot be easily flushed with water. Detergents are getting more and more concentrated, so they should be used in very small amounts, following the directions on the packaging. By choosing the adequate amounts, you will be friendly to the environment, while your clothes will retain their elasticity, colour and quality for a longer time.