Introduction
Laundry is an unavoidable household task, but it can also be a hidden contributor to high electricity bills. The good news? Learning how to lower your electricity bill when doing laundry is simple and can save you money every single month. By making small changes to your washing and drying habits, you can cut energy use without sacrificing clean, fresh clothes.
Why Laundry Affects Your Electricity Bill
Your washing machine and dryer are two of the biggest energy consumers in your home. The dryer alone can use more electricity than your refrigerator, dishwasher, and TV combined. Common factors that increase laundry-related energy costs include:
- Using hot water for every load
- Running small loads frequently
- Overusing the dryer instead of air drying
- Not maintaining appliances, which makes them work harder
- Running laundry during peak electricity hours
Making smarter laundry choices can reduce energy use by 20–50% and extend the life of your clothes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Lowering Electricity Costs When Doing Laundry
1. Wash with Cold Water Whenever Possible
What to do:
- Switch to cold water for most loads unless dealing with heavily soiled or germ-heavy items.
- Use a detergent formulated for cold water washing.
Why it works:
Heating water accounts for up to 90% of the energy used during a wash cycle. Cold water cleaning drastically reduces electricity use.
2. Always Wash Full Loads (But Don’t Overload)
What to do:
- Wait until you have a full load before starting the washer.
- Avoid overloading, which can reduce cleaning efficiency and strain the motor.
Why it works:
Running fewer, larger loads saves both water and energy.
3. Use High-Efficiency (HE) Settings and Appliances
What to do:
- If your washer has an eco or HE setting, use it for everyday loads.
- Consider upgrading to an ENERGY STAR® certified washer and dryer.
Why it works:
HE appliances use less water, spin more efficiently, and shorten drying times.
4. Maximize Spin Speed to Reduce Drying Time
What to do:
- Use the highest spin speed safe for your fabrics to remove more water before drying.
- For delicates, use medium spin to protect the fabric while still reducing moisture.
Why it works:
The less water left in clothes, the less time (and electricity) the dryer will need.
5. Air-Dry Clothes Whenever Possible
What to do:
- Hang clothes on a drying rack indoors or a clothesline outside.
- Even partially air-dry heavy items like jeans and towels before putting them in the dryer.
Why it works:
Air drying eliminates dryer electricity use entirely for that load.
6. Clean the Dryer Lint Trap Every Load
What to do:
- Remove lint after each drying cycle.
- Check and clean the dryer vent hose every 3–6 months.
Why it works:
A clogged lint trap reduces airflow, making the dryer work harder and run longer.
7. Use Dryer Balls for Faster Drying
What to do:
- Place wool or rubber dryer balls in the dryer with your clothes.
- They separate fabrics and improve air circulation.
Why it works:
Better airflow reduces drying time by up to 25%.
8. Dry Similar Fabrics Together
What to do:
- Group lightweight items in one load and heavy fabrics in another.
- Avoid mixing towels with t-shirts or sheets.
Why it works:
Different fabrics dry at different speeds—separating them prevents overdrying and wasted energy.
9. Use Lower Heat Settings in the Dryer
What to do:
- Switch from high to medium or low heat.
- Add extra drying time if needed, but avoid overheating clothes.
Why it works:
Lower heat uses less energy and helps protect fabrics from damage.
10. Do Laundry During Off-Peak Hours
What to do:
- If your utility company charges time-of-use rates, wash and dry clothes during off-peak times (usually evenings or weekends).
Why it works:
Electricity is often cheaper outside of peak demand periods.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Washing with Hot Water by Default
Solution: Use cold or warm water unless hot is necessary for sanitation.
Mistake 2: Ignoring Appliance Maintenance
Solution: Clean filters, vents, and check hoses to keep machines efficient.
Mistake 3: Overdrying Clothes
Solution: Use moisture sensor settings to stop the dryer when clothes are done.
Mistake 4: Running Half-Loads Frequently
Solution: Consolidate laundry into full, efficient loads.
Mistake 5: Neglecting to Upgrade Old Appliances
Solution: Replace outdated machines with energy-efficient models when possible.
Extra Laundry Tips & Hacks
- Add a dry towel to dryer loads to help absorb moisture and speed up drying.
- Wash clothes inside out to preserve fabric quality and extend wear.
- Use a cold rinse cycle—there’s no need to heat water for rinsing.
- Related guide: Check out our article on “How to Prevent Shrinking Clothes in the Dryer” for more heat-smart drying tips.
Conclusion
Lowering your electricity bill when doing laundry is all about reducing heat use, optimizing load size, and letting your appliances work smarter—not harder. By washing in cold water, air drying when possible, and maintaining your machines, you can save money, conserve energy, and keep your clothes looking their best.
Bonus Tip: Keep a laundry checklist near your washer and dryer as a quick reminder of energy-saving habits—over time, they’ll become second nature.
Bookmark this guide so you can cut your laundry costs and energy use all year round.