Three Laundry Hacks PART 3/3

By Nathaniel Thomas, founder of Terra Haven 

(3-4 minute read)

You’re in luck, this Laundry Hack is actually a twofer! There are so many ways and tips to save energy these days, I’m going to give you two of them when it comes to drying your laundry. 

Though it may seem old fashioned, you might be surprised to know there are more benefits to line drying your laundry than just saving energy. Line drying is so much gentler on your clothes, helping them last longer. Hanging clothes and sheets out to dry not only helps them smell fresher, but UV rays help bleach and disinfect which is great for your whites.  

Don’t be shy about the clothesline! Hanging your clothes out to dry makes an ecological and practical statement to your neighbors. Make a difference one load of laundry at a time. Plus it takes less than 10 minutes to hang, and the extra work is a great way to burn more calories by putting more physical activity and time outdoors into your routine. This time can also add an essential element of mindfulness and stress reduction. Additionally, line drying saves money not just on energy costs but also by helping your clothes last longer. It's a win-win-win for you, your clothes, and the environment!

Interestingly, line drying inside during the winter increases indoor humidity, which helps prevent dry nasal passages, and in turn reduces susceptibility to colds and flu. I know not everybody has the space to hang a full load inside, so until spring rolls around—-unless you’re lucky enough to be in a warm climate or you really like frozen sockscicles—-you’ll be happy to read the second part of our tip below!

Before we move on, it’s good to keep in mind it takes at least 4 hours to line dry laundry on a hot breezy day, and drying indoors takes about 5-9 hours. And remember to keep your dark colors in the shade if at all possible to prevent sun bleaching. 

No judgment if you’re in an apartment or an HOA that would frown at the laundry line. So if for any reason you’re not ready to forgo the dryer, or you just don’t have the time to wait for that fresh shirt, don’t worry. Just like Laundry Hack #2, this final trick is so super simple you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.

Just add a dry towel to the dryer load to speed drying, which reduces drying time and saves energy. 

You can simplify even more. Designate an old faded towel that won’t bleed color onto whites (or mind the extra wear & tear) to leave in the dryer all the time. You don’t even have to think about it, aside from tossing it back in as soon as you pull out the fresh load. 

Turn laundry into an act of kindness with Earth Breeze Eco Sheets. With each purchase, Earth Breeze donates 10 loads of detergent to those in need. Over 100 million loads donated and counting!

Thanks for reading, feel free to comment with your laundry successes below! 

Be well