The Vatican controversially said that the washing machine, launched in 1953, did more for the emancipation of women than the pill. But, what effect did the revolutionary washing machine have on the environment? Discover expert advice on being green when using your washing machine.
1. Fill your washing machine to the brim
Even if your washing machine has a half-load setting, you should wait until you can use a full load to ensure that you are both water and energy efficient. Better still, being eco will save you money on your electricity bills.
2. Turn the temperature down on your washing machine
Get rid of stains by soaking your laundry in a bucket overnight - or even over a weekend - and then put the garments in a low cycle in the washing machine. Set your washing machine to a low temperature of 30 degrees C and you will save around 40% energy consumption. 3. Clean your washing machine drawers
Prevent a buildup of residue in the detergent drawers by scrubbing with a brush. In between washes, let the drawer dry out by leaving it open. This will make your washing machine more efficient.
4. Use the correct amount of washing detergent
If you use too much washing machine liquid or powder, you may need extra rinse cycles that waste water and energy. Use too little and your laundry won't be adequately clean so you'll need more washing. Get it right first time!
5. Choose the correct spin cycle on your washing machine
You can save energy by picking the right spin cycle on your washing machine. Gentle spinning will leave fewer creases in your clothes meaning you'll save energy and won't need to do as much ironing. Setting your washing machine to high speed spinning will remove the most water - good if you're using a tumble drier or can dry the clothes indoors.
6.
Hate ironing? Buy a steam washing machine
Technology is helping us to do less household chores - happy days! Steam washing machines are much more environmentally friendly than their counterparts because they use about two thirds of the energy by relying on blasts of steam instead of vats of water. And, as all fashion stylists know well, steaming is a much gentler option to ironing for getting wrinkles out of your clothes.
7. Buy a washing machine with a brain
According to green pioneer, Andrew Reason, he has invented a washing machine that can weigh the washing and calculate the correct amount of detergent, fabric softener and water - thus, creating less waste. The machine, called the Reason, has a bigger drum than a normal-sized washing machine. 'Kilo for kilo, it uses 30% less electricity for a standard cotton wash compared to a typical A-rated European machine,' says Reason.
8. Use chemical-free eco balls in your washing machine
Conventional washing detergents and conditioners cost the earth and damage the environment. Natural, efficient, cost-effective, Eco balls offer a spotless substitute to conventional washing powders that contaminate our water supply and break down the clothing they wash. Eco balls generate ionized oxygen that triggers the water molecules naturally and removes dirt from clothing fibres. You can use them for up to 1,000 washes meaning each wash costs you about 3p.
9. Discover the fastest washing machine ever
As a general rule, the faster the wash cycle, the less energy consumed. Beko's A++-rated washing machine can wash your laundry in 14 minutes and has been awarded for energy efficiency. It boasts a bespoke electronic water control system that measures the precise quantity of water needed for the laundry.
10. Recycle your washing machine
The eco design gurus are breathing new life into second hand washing machines. After a washing machine drum has spun its last cycle, it can be revamped into a table, ottoman or funky light.
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