Laundry day is usually a chore for many of us: but could you be making it more painful than it needs to be?
Studies show that approximately 80% of clothing is made from plastic fibres: this means that every time we load up the washing machine and run a cycle, microplastics are making their way into our waterways, creating harmful consequences for the planet. Because of this, it's crucial that we wash our clothes properly and responsibly to minimise the impact on our environment.
That's why, on this #WorldOceansDay, we want to shed light on this pressing issue and share some valuable tips on how you can better care for your clothing - while simultaneously caring for the planet.
Here are four mistakes to avoid when washing your clothes so that you can increase the lifespan of your outfits and help protect our waterways:
1) Washing too often
Let's admit it; we're all guilty of washing our clothes more often than necessary. However, it's important to understand how often we really need to be cleaning the clothes we own (hint: your jeans definitely don't need washing after every use!).
Here's how often you should really be washing your clothes:
👙 Underwear and socks: Wash these after every wear to maintain hygiene
👕 Tops and trousers: These items can typically be worn 1-3 times before needing a wash
🧥 Sweaters and jumpers: These garments often require less frequent washing and can be worn up to five times before needing a refresh
👖 Jeans: Denim is known for its durability and can be worn up to ten times before requiring a wash. This not only saves water and energy but also extends the lifespan of your jeans
2) Not checking the care labels
One of the most common mistakes people make when doing their laundry is failing to read the care labels. Each fabric and material have specific care requirements e.g. recommended washing temperatures or the need for handwashing, and by ignoring these instructions, we risk damaging the clothes and shortening their lifespan (meaning we're more likely to purchase more clothes and give in to fast fashion!).
To avoid this, take a moment to read the care labels before throwing a wash on and follow the guidelines accordingly. This simple step can go a long way in preserving your clothing.
3) Not using an eco-friendly detergent
Did you know the choice of your detergent can significantly impact the environmental footprint of your laundry routine?
After realising this, I made an effort to start shopping for eco-friendly, plastic-free detergents to help minimise my contribution to plastic pollution. There are lots of brands available that offer eco-conscious options, but one of my personal faves is Smol (and if you fancy a FREE trial on your first order of Smol Laundry Tablets, check out my Eco Discounts page for a special discount code!).
4) Not skipping the dryer
Using a dryer can seem convenient, but it can harm both your clothes and the environment. Not only does it increase the wear and tear on garments, but it also consumes a lot of energy!
So, instead of relying on a dryer, consider air-drying your clothes. Now that we're in June, it's the perfect time of year to start hanging your clothes outside on a clothesline or using a clothes airer indoors. Skipping the dryer saves you energy and money and it also helps preserve the quality and longevity of your clothing. Plus, there's something quite refreshing about the natural scent of air-dried laundry!
By avoiding these common mistakes and implementing these simple yet impactful changes, you can make a significant difference in reducing the environmental impact of your laundry routine. Let's celebrate World Oceans Day by taking a step towards sustainable living and caring for our planet, one load of laundry at a time. 🌊
Remember, every small change counts, and together, we can make a big impact on the health of our oceans and the overall well-being of our planet. 💚
At All Things Green, we share simple, eco-friendly tips to help you lead an imperfect sustainable lifestyle.
We believe that ‘small steps are still steps’, and that we can all have a positive impact on the planet - no matter how small.
Join the ATG community today and take that first step towards an imperfect sustainable future by following us on Instagram!
Want to read more? Check out our previous blog posts, bag some fantastic discounts on eco-friendly products, and find out more about our story here on the All Things Green website.
Thanks for reading!
Naomi 💚
Comments