Make laundry more eco-friendly
Be more green when you wash and dry, and you could save money, as well as helping the planet
e all want our clothes and linen to be clean and fresh, but we also need to think about how we can help to use less energy in the home. Follow our advice to find out the small changes you can make, especially as the weather gets warmer, which will make a big difference.
Go green with our expert advice
I Switching your washing machine programme from 40 to 30 uses around 40% less electricity. Many of todays detergents are designed to work at these lower temperatures, although you may still want to wash bed linen and towels at a higher temperature. I Ideally you should wait until you have a full load before washing, although this isnt always possible, so make use of your washing machines half load function. I If youre thinking of investing in a new washing machine, look for one with a good energy rating. Some of the latest models only use the amount of water required for the weight of the load. I Try to use environmentally-friendly detergents wherever possible. Most supermarkets now stock a good range, which dont contain chemicals that have a polluting effect on the environment. I If its raining outside, try to avoid using the tumble dryer. An indoor drying rack or rail makes a good alternative, just open a window slightly to allow damp air to escape.
WallFix clothes airer, 99, Brabantia
L Even if you only have a tiny garden or yard, its easy to dry clothes outside with this ingenious wall-mounted dryer. It folds away into a compact size, and gives 24 metres of drying space, enough for a full load of laundry. A stainless steel protection box is also available

Feature Lisa Hibberd

L Ecovers
If its a rainy day, you can still hang clothes to dry inside, even with limited space. This handy rack can stand anywhere, even over your bath, and folds down flat for easy storage
Leifheit Pegasus compact airer, 35.99, Lakeland
laundry products use the natural power of plant and mineral ingredients
Fabric softener, 1.79; laundry liquid, 4.95; concentrated laundry powder, 3.39, all Ecover
June 2011 www.yhmag.co.uk

ECO SOLUTIONS

With 11 metres of line which retracts into a small, rust-proof housing, this is the perfect solution if you dont want your washing line out all the time
Outdoor retractable clothes line, 10.99, Lakeland

YH PROMOTION

Go green with Gorenje
If youre thinking of updating your laundry appliances, consider ecofriendly programmes, energy ratings and the impact your new machine will have on the environment Gorenje is famed for its eco-friendly appliances and the WA72145 washing machine is no exception. The WA72145 free-standing washing machine from Gorenje is a highly effective, superbly designed, quality appliance with A-10% energy saving benefits; perfect for meeting every households washing needs, supported by superior eco-performance and a large capacity. Featuring Gorenjes specially developed UseLogic technology, which delivers A-10% class energy, wash and spin performance, as well as the AquaStop anti-flooding system, the WA72145 provides the consumer with complete reassurance of efficiency, as well as the perfect wash every time. UseLogic intelligent sensor technology continuously monitors the purity of the water and the amount of foam, and automatically takes care of additional rinsing where appropriate. In addition to the standard washing programmes, the WA72145 also features a number of special functions, such as the 17-minute quick wash, the mix and easy ironing options, and, more importantly, the 30C eco wash option, which can use at least 40% less electricity thereby reducing those energy bills. This model is also available in black WA72145BK.
Method laundry, 5.99, available from Tesco, Sainsburys, Waitrose, Ocado and www.methodproducts.co.uk
With a 35% smaller carbon footprint than conventional detergents, Methods ultraconcentrated plant-based formula gives great results with just a few tiny squirts
Rose and petals peg bag, 8, The Camouflage Company
L Keep pegs in one place with this durable peg bag, which can be easily attached to your washing line with the handy clip
Hang laundry in style with this traditional rack, made from pine and cast iron