Doing laundry is one of the most common household chores, but it could be cheaper.
While many people have resorted to making their own laundry detergent to cut laundry expenses, you can go even further than that!
Hundreds of people have come together to reveal their favorite frugal laundry tips that they swear by.
After reading these tips, we’re sure you’ll have a newfound respect for frugal laundering and save some money, too.
Avoid Excessive Washing
Here’s the dirty (no pun intended) secret about doing laundry: you’re probably washing too excessively.
Many people throw things in the laundry as soon as they take them off, regardless of how long they were worn or how dirty they actually are.
Also, please consider washing only full loads of laundry. Anything less than a full load is less efficient.
Don’t Use Fabric Softener
Contrary to popular belief, fabric softener is a waste.
Think of all the money you would save by not buying fabric softeners regularly. It’s not just the money you’d be saving that’s important, either.
Fabric softener breaks down the fabrics in your clothes over time and is hard on your machine.
Use Wool Balls in the Dryer
Add dryer sheets to your “do not use anymore” list.
The benefits of wool balls are clear: they’re better for the environment since they’re reusable, better for your clothes, and you’ll save money in the long run by not purchasing so many boxes of dryer sheets.
Some people also use them for sanitizing pillows in the dryer.
The only downside is the sound, of course. You may need to get used to the noise of wool balls tumbling around the inside of your dryer. You can get them fairly cheaply on Amazon.
Use Less Detergent
Face the facts: you’re probably using too much detergent.
Most people only need 1 to 2 tablespoons of liquid detergent per wash.
Most modern washing machines dilute the detergent on their own.
So if you’re filling the cap to the maximum level, you’re likely using too much.
Conversely, using less detergent means spending less on each wash.
Fasten All Buttons and Zippers
This tip may seem like a needless chore, but it’ll prolong the life of your clothes.
Remember to button up your clothes and zip up all zippers before you start your next laundry cycle.
Loose buttons and unzipped zipper teeth cause extra wear and tear on other clothes.
This tip can be the hardest to implement since it’s easy to skip.
Still, it’s a small habit that can extend the life of your wardrobe over time.
Hang Dry Whenever Possible
Not everyone has space to hang-dry clothes, but this is arguably the most effective frugal laundry hack because it makes your dryer unnecessary.
In addition, you’ll reduce static among your drying clothes because they won’t be subject to so much static electricity when tumbling around the dryer.
So I strongly recommend trying this tip.
Wash in Cold Water Only
There are many benefits to only using cold water when washing clothes.
First, cold water saves energy because you’re not using your water heater.
It also saves you money for the same reason.
Finally, washing with cold water is as effective at cleaning clothes as hot water, especially with today’s laundry detergents, a claim that couldn’t have been made 20 years ago.
Get on a Laundry Schedule
Keep a consistent laundry routine and wash only full loads.
By getting into the habit of doing laundry only one day a week, you’ll be more mindful of what truly needs washing and which pieces of clothing can be worn another day.
Consider Airing Out Dirty Clothes
If you want to avoid washing clothes after each wear, try airing them out instead.
Many frugal people say this can help remove odors and refresh the fabric. Just put them outside
In addition, some types of clothing, like denim jeans and sweaters, can be washed less frequently than underwear, socks, and t-shirts.
Invest in a Quality Washing Machine
This is one of those tips that involves investing in your future, but it will pay off.
A high-efficiency washing machine can save money in the long run by using less water and energy.
In recent years, countless technological advances have been made in home appliances, and the modern washing machine has come a long way from the loud, inefficient machines of decades past.
Read More:
- 6 TikTok Laundry Hacks That Actually Work
- 10 Laundry Mistakes You Didn’t Know You Were Making
- How to Find the Best Laundry Detergent On A Budget
