4 Eco-Friendly Ways To Wash Your Bedding
Are you aware of your environmental footprint? You can start becoming eco-friendlier by taking small steps every day to change your habits. Some of them can be cutting down on single-use plastic and turning off the lights when you walk out of a room.
One other way by which you can also make a difference is by changing the way that you wash your bedding. At Marylehome, we recommend washing your cotton bedding and zip up sheets at least once a week. These washes quickly add up over time, so you want eco-friendly ways of washing your bedding. We have four tips to help:
1. Choose a 40-degree Wash
You might be someone who likes a hot shower, but your bed sheets don’t need that. A colder wash will still kill the bacteria and remove the residue from your cotton bed sheets. Putting your wash on a colder cycle can reduce your energy usage by up to 80%, cutting down on your electricity bill and helping the planet. A colder wash can also help reduce wrinkles in cotton bedding, meaning you don’t need to worry about ironing them.
2. Put On a Full Load
Sometimes, we’re tempted to throw a bed sheet into the washer and put on the machine. Your cotton bed sheet will usually only take up about half the size of your washing machine. Maximise your energy and water usage by throwing in other textiles, especially if they’re cotton. You can also add in white towels and everyday clothing. Save yourself time by putting it one load and help the planet in the process.
3. Buy Natural Detergents
Our next tip is as much for your skin as it is for the environment. Avoid buying detergents that use chemicals. You can usually spot them like the ones that promise amazing results and to be able to remove any stain. Choosing a natural detergent can keep your cotton bedding feeling soft, protect your skin, and can increase the lifespan of your luxury bedding. When you’re shopping for a detergent, look for one that includes biodegradable components.
4. Skip the Tumble Dryer
Most of us have a tumble dryer that lives next to our washing machine. If it’s a good day, skip the tumble dryer and do it the old-fashioned way. Your sheets will feel extra fresh when they are dried outside. While you probably will have to use a tumble dryer in the autumn and winter, it’s best to maximise air drying during the warmer months. When you have to use your tumble dryer, make sure that you regularly clean the lint trap.