Doing laundry is a necessity, but it often involves practices that are not very sustainable, such as water waste, plastic pollution, and energy consumption.
Fortunately, with a few simple changes, you can make your laundry routine more sustainable. These eco-friendly laundry tips will help you to green up your laundry routine, without compromising the cleanliness of your clothing.

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Wash Clothes in Cold Water
One of the easiest ways to save energy is by washing your clothes in cold water. Most detergents work just as well in lower temperatures, and cold water helps preserve fabric colors and prevent shrinkage. Many washing machines have cold water settings, and many laundry detergents are designed to be effective with cold water. Switching to cold water significantly reduces energy consumption.
Use a Filter For Microplastics
Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon shed tiny microplastic fibers during washing, which end up in our waterways and harm marine life. A washing machine filter helps trap these fibers, preventing them from polluting the ocean.
You may also want to consider looking for more natural fiber clothing pieces, such as organic cotton, hemp, or linen.
Air-Dry Your Clothes Whenever Possible
Traditional tumble dryers consume quite a bit o energy and can wear out fabrics faster.
Instead, hang your clothes to dry on a clothesline or drying rack. Sunlight naturally disinfects and brightens whites, while air drying extends the lifespan of your garments.
If you must use a dryer, use wool dryer balls to reduce drying time. Skip dryer sheets, which are known for containing chemicals.
Use Vinegar as a Natural Fabric Softener
Commercial fabric softeners often contain artificial fragrances and chemicals that can build up on clothes and irritate sensitive skin. White vinegar is a natural, affordable alternative that softens fabrics, reduces static, and eliminates odors without leaving a residue. Simply add half a cup to the rinse cycle for fresh, soft laundry.
Wash Full Loads to Conserve Water
Running smaller loads wastes water and energy. Wait until you have a full load before running your washer to maximize efficiency. If you need to wash a smaller load, adjust the water level setting accordingly. Choosing a front-loading washing machine can also help, as they use significantly less water than top-loading models.
Skip the Iron and Embrace Wrinkles
Ironing consumes electricity and can weaken fabric fibers over time. Instead of ironing, try hanging clothes up immediately after washing to reduce wrinkles. A quick shake and smooth-out before drying can help, and for stubborn creases, a garment steamer is a more energy-efficient option. You can also use wool dryer balls to help smooth your laundry.
Reduce Single-Use Plastic Waste
Many laundry products come in plastic packaging, contributing to plastic pollution. To cut back on waste, look for detergent refills, laundry strips, or powder detergents packaged in cardboard. Consider using reusable glass jars to store homemade detergent or purchasing from zero-waste stores that offer bulk options.
Make the Switch to Wool Dryer Balls
Traditional dryer sheets contain synthetic chemicals and create unnecessary waste. Wool dryer balls are a reusable, all-natural alternative that helps reduce drying time and soften clothes. You can even add a few drops of essential oil to them for a light, natural fragrance.
Choose a Natural Plant-Based Detergent
Many conventional detergents contain harsh chemicals that can harm the environment. In addition, these detergents are not good for your skin.
Look for plant-based, biodegradable detergents that do not contain chemicals. A natural detergent should be free from synthetic fragrances, phosphates, and dyes. If you want to take it one step further, you can look up recipes to make your own laundry detergent.
AspenClean Laundry Detergent
Attitude Laundry Detergent
Blueland Laundry Products
doTERRA On Guard Laundry Detergent
Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap
Earthley Laundry Detergent
Meliora Laundry Detergent
Molly’s Suds Laundry Detergent
Nellie’s Laundry Suds
Sapadilla Laundry Detergent
Woolzies Laundry Detergent
Young Living Thieves Detergent
Amber Myers
February 4, 2025I have made some switches in the laundry room. I always do full loads and our machine is supposed to be eco friendly. We also use those dryer balls.
Julie
February 4, 2025I didn’t know that you can get a filter for microplastics for eco-friendly laundry techniques! I will search for one right away. We have plastic dryer balls, which I guess aren’t so eco-friendly though. I didn’t realize the difference with wool was that it would smooth your clothes, now I regret re-gifting some to my sister.
tara pittman
February 4, 2025Yes to all of this. I need to get a plastic filter fo my machine.
Catalina
February 5, 2025I’ve already been washing in cold water, but I never thought about using vinegar as a fabric softener—definitely trying that!
Melissa Cushing
February 5, 2025I am loving these tips and do many of them already. I was telling my husband the other day I wanted a clothesline that I could use to hang dry my laundry in the nicer months of the year….saves on drying costs and I love how clothes smell when dried on the line 😉
Lavanda
February 5, 2025These tips make it simple to be more eco friendly without sacrificing clean clothes. Adding a microplastic filter is a great tip, I’m definitely trying to be more mindful about choosing natural fabrics.
Jen
February 6, 2025We use a natural, fragrance-free detergent because of my daughter’s eczema. I’m going to consider using a wool dryer ball. It sounds cost-effective and eco-friendly.