Everyone is trying to pinch a penny these days, and laundry is one area where you can save a few bucks if you plan ahead. Being frugal in the laundry room can really add up.
Use cold water. Modern detergents are formulated to work in cold water. Running a load on cold will save about 30 cents.
Buy generic. The same manufacturers of the popular brands make most store brand detergents. If you need extra clean, add half a cup of baking soda to each load.
Use less. See if half the recommended amount of detergent will get your clothes just as clean. Most likely, you won’t notice a difference. You can always add a little bit more each time to see exactly what amount you prefer.
Make your own. There are so many chemicals in commercial detergents; it’s very difficult to avoid them. Making your own guarantees you know what’s in your wash. You can save up scraps of bath soap and dissolve them in hot water, adding washing soda purchased at any grocery store, and there are plenty of detergent recipes found online.
Cut up dryer sheets. There’s no vital need to use an entire dryer sheet at once. Cut them in half to make them go further.
Use vinegar. White distilled vinegar is an excellent fabric softener. Add half a cup to the final rinse cycle and it will loosen up any remaining detergent.
Try aluminum foil. Ball up some foil and throw it in the dryer. The metal counteracts static cling and you can use the same ball for several loads.
Skip the iron. Sprinkle some water on wrinkled clothes and toss in the dryer. They should come out wrinkle-free. If not, plan your wardrobe the day before and hang the outfit in the bathroom while you and your family showers. The steam will smooth out wrinkles.
Line dry. Air is free. Need we say more?
