It never fails. During the lazy days of summer I tend to neglect our laundry. I blame it on our enticing swimming pool with its promise of refreshment, the escape of summer reading and Pina Coladas. Just when I set out to tackle the mountain of less than fresh clothes, we have a heat wave. Due to the demand for more electrical power in summer, we’re always advised to conserve energy, and run large appliances in the evening hours. However, that’s not always convenient for me. So this year, I’m planning ahead.
I was flipping through the pages of a recent issue of Martha Stewart Living when I laid eyes on the most attractive drying rack I have ever seen. It’s the Shaker Drying Rack from Kiosk. It’s functional art really. When you’re finished using it, you can hang it on a peg on the wall. Love that!
In terms of conservation, drying clothes on a line or a rack makes good sense. I found this list of the top 10 reasons you should line dry your laundry on a site for a movement called Project Laundry List. I hope the list inspires you to try it.
10)Save money (more than $25/month of electric bill for many households).
9)Clothes last longer. Where do you think lint comes from?
8)Clothes and linens smell better without adding possibly toxic chemicals to your body and the environment.
7)Conserve energy and the environment, while reducing climate change.
6) It is moderate physical activity which you can do in or outside
5) Sunlight bleaches and disinfects.
4)Indoor racks can humidify in dry winter weather.
3)Clothes dryer and washing machine fires account for about 17,700 structure fires, 15 deaths, and 360 injuries annually. The yearly national fire loss for clothes dryer fires in structures is estimated at $194 million.
2)It is fun! And can be an outdoor experience that is meditative and community-building.
1)Demonstrates that small steps can make a difference.
Junene Hrycko
Owner-Ecolibrium Cleaning