How to Wash Clothes the Sustainable Way: A Complete Guide
Introduction
Most of us do laundry on autopilot. Load the machine, add detergent, press a button—and repeat. But what many people don’t realize is that the way we wash our clothes has a huge impact on the planet. From the energy used to heat water to the microplastics released into rivers and oceans, every wash cycle carries an environmental cost.
The good news? With a few simple changes, you can transform your laundry routine into one that saves money, protects your favorite clothes, and treads lightly on the Earth. This guide will walk you through the most sustainable ways to wash clothes without compromising on cleanliness.
1. Wash Less, Wear More
One of the easiest ways to make your laundry more eco-friendly is to simply wash less often. Most clothes don’t need to be washed after every wear. For example:
Jeans: can be worn 4–5 times (or even more) before needing a wash.
Sweaters and jackets: may only need washing once a season.
T-shirts and underwear: should be washed after each wear for hygiene.
Instead of tossing everything into the basket, try airing clothes out overnight on a hanger, steaming them, or using a natural fabric refresher spray. Washing less not only saves water and energy but also helps your clothes last longer by reducing fabric wear and color fading.
2. Use Cold Water Whenever Possible
Did you know that up to 90% of the energy used during laundry goes into heating water? Switching to cold water is one of the simplest and most impactful changes you can make.
Cold water protects fabrics by preventing shrinkage and color bleeding.
Modern detergents are designed for cold washes, so your clothes still get thoroughly cleaned.
Warm or hot water should only be used when necessary, such as for bedding, towels, or items that need sanitizing.
Pro tip: set your washing machine to 30°C (86°F) or lower for everyday loads—you’ll barely notice a difference in results, but your energy savings will add up.
3. Choose Eco-Friendly Detergents
Not all detergents are created equal. Many mainstream brands contain harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and even microplastics that harm waterways. For a more sustainable choice:
Look for plant-based or biodegradable detergents free from phosphates, chlorine, and dyes.
Try plastic-free options like detergent sheets or refillable pods.
Experiment with DIY alternatives, such as soap nuts or homemade laundry powders, if you prefer a low-waste approach.
Eco detergents are not only better for the environment but are often gentler on sensitive skin and fabrics, too.
4. Wash Full Loads—but Don’t Overstuff
It’s tempting to throw in a small load when you’re in a rush, but doing so wastes water and energy. Running your machine with a full load is far more efficient. However, overloading has its downsides:
Too many clothes reduce cleaning efficiency because they can’t move freely.
Fabrics can become creased, stretched, or even damaged.
Your machine works harder, which shortens its lifespan.
As a rule of thumb, fill the drum so there’s still a hand’s width of space at the top. This balance ensures maximum efficiency while still giving your clothes room to move.
5. Ditch the Dryer (When You Can)
The tumble dryer is one of the biggest household energy guzzlers. Air-drying is not only better for the planet, but it also helps your clothes last longer.
Line-dry outdoors whenever possible for fresh-smelling clothes.
Use an indoor drying rack during colder months.
If you must use a dryer, opt for a lower heat setting and add wool dryer balls to speed up drying time.
Skipping the dryer even half the time can save significant amounts of energy over the course of a year.
6. Protect Clothes From Microplastics
Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic shed tiny plastic fibers every time they’re washed. These microplastics make their way into rivers, oceans, and eventually the food chain. To reduce this:
Use a microfiber-catching laundry bag (such as Guppyfriend) or install a washing machine filter.
Wash synthetics on shorter, cooler cycles to minimize shedding.
Choose natural fibers like cotton, hemp, or linen when buying new clothes.
This small change can significantly reduce the hidden plastic pollution from your wardrobe.
7. Care for Your Washing Machine, Too
A well-maintained washing machine is more efficient and better for your clothes. Make sure to:
Clean the filter once a month to prevent lint and debris buildup.
Run an empty hot wash with vinegar or eco-cleaner every 1–2 months to remove residue.
Leave the door open after washes to prevent mold and mildew.
By keeping your machine in good condition, you’ll extend its life and ensure every load is as efficient as possible.
Conclusion: Small Changes, Big Impact
Washing clothes sustainably isn’t about making your life harder—it’s about being mindful of small choices that add up. By washing less often, switching to cold water, choosing eco detergents, air-drying when possible, and protecting against microplastics, you’ll save money, keep your clothes looking great, and reduce your environmental footprint.
Every laundry day is an opportunity to make a difference. And when multiplied across millions of households, those differences become powerful.
At Renew & Rewear, we believe in celebrating clothing that lasts. What’s your favorite eco-friendly laundry hack? Share it in the comments below or tag us on Instagram with #RenewAndRewear—we’d love to feature your tips in our community spotlight!
