Going Beyond Green When You Wash and Clean

Whether it’s Earth Day or laundry day, consumers can take simple steps to save energy and conserve water while getting their clothes cleaner than ever, according to the American Cleaning Institute (ACI).


“Millions of consumers do multiple loads of laundry each week, so even a slight change in behavior can have a huge payoff for the environment,” says Nancy Bock, ACI Vice President of Consumer Education.


“While you may find it easy to choose a product that is labeled green, going beyond green is about more than just product selection. It’s paying attention to each step that you take before and after you start the wash cycle.”


ACI offers several tips for consumers as they prepare to do the laundry:

• Using the recommended amount of detergent, bleach and fabric softener gives you top performance and can help you save money and a small piece of the Earth.

• The two biggest energy uses when doing laundry come from heating the water and drying the load. Always follow fabric care labels and instructions: wash with the coldest water possible and spin at the highest recommended speed to remove water.

• Pay attention to water levels and select the right amount of water for each load of laundry. Avoid over-filling your washing machine to save water and energy.

• Concentrated laundry products save packaging and transportation energy costs.

• Do your part by disposing empty laundry product containers at local recycling facilities.

• To conserve energy and save money, consider using a clothesline to dry your laundry outdoors, instead of using your gas or electric dryer.


To download a free tip-sheet, “Going Beyond Green: Laundry Know How for Consumers,” on ACI’s website, www.cleaninginstitute.org