For anyone looking to save money and tread lightly on the environment at the same time, the following advice:
- Run washing machine only when fully loaded; that is, a 4.5 kg-load when using heavy duty detergents and detergents for coloureds, and 2.5 kg with use of a detergent for delicates.
- Sort laundry and use appropriate detergent (heavy duty detergents, detergents for coloureds and delicates).
- Follow dosage instructions. Pay attention to degree of soiling.
- Pre-washing is unnecessary.
- Select the lowest washing temperature possible (not over for whites and coloureds). Depending on the degree of soiling, 40°C to 60°C maximum is sufficient for whites. It normally takes no more than 30°C for coloureds. Boil washing is only necessary in exceptional cases, e.g. to kill germs.
- Opt for concentrated detergents in refillable packaging. Super compact detergents for coloureds and whites are about the same ecologically as three-component washing detergents. The refill pack saves material resources.
- Pay attention to energy and water consumption when purchasing a new washing machine.
Consumers can extend their savings beyond laundry washing, as thriftiness in dishwashing is a bonus the environment as well as the household budget. The same advice applies to dishwashers: seek out energy and water-saving models when buying a new appliance. Operate only when fully loaded and do without pre-rinse whenever possible.
