A reader's question! We regularly get questions at thegreenlist.nl the question, how exactly the washing machine's eco mode works. Our readers doubt its benefit - because it is still 30°C, right? And one has doubts about whether laundry gets clean properly with eco mode. Yes, it certainly does! We explain, because that eco mode definitely has benefits for the planet, your clothes and your wallet.
What you need to know about the environmental impact of your washing machine
When most people think of sustainable washing, they first think of eco-friendly detergent, laundry strips and a dash of natural vinegar as fabric softener. All great ideas, but the real difference lies in how you use your washing machine. The biggest culprit? That is energy consumption! The golden rule: wash less and run at low temperatures. Not only better for the environment, but also for your wallet and clothes, because frequent washing can deteriorate the fabric. So even if the label inside your garment says you may wash hotter, it is often not necessary at all. Small effort, big effect! We have written about more sustainable washing before.
Nice savings from eco mode
Nibud calculated that a wash at 30°C is about 15% cheaper than at 40°C. And do you normally wash at 60°C? Then you'll even save 25% by switching back to 30°C. That's because it's not the quantity of water, but rather heating it that takes up the most energy, accounting for some 80 to 90% of your machine's total consumption.
How does the washing machine's eco mode work?
The easiest sustainable switch? Choose the eco mode and wash at a low temperature by default. Chances are you will save even more. Yes, a wash on eco mode takes a bit longer, but that's exactly the trick. Although you set the programme to 30°C, your machine actually washes at a lower temperature. The secret? The water and detergent simply get more time to soak in, making your laundry just as clean. From experience, I can say that an eco-wash at 30°C always smells fresh.
And there is another advantage: eco mode uses less water! Your machine rinses more efficiently and works smarter, not only saving energy, but also using less water. Win-win! And another easy saving tip: fill that drum better! On average, we put in only 3.4 kilos of laundry, while most machines can easily handle five kilos. That is, of course, a waste. How do you know if your drum is properly filled? Simple: if you can just put a fist between the laundry and the top, you're fine. Give it a try and save even more!
Eco mode washing habit
Are you getting into eco mode? Nice! Then don't forget to rinse your machine clean with a hot wash programme every now and then. Throw your dirty cleaning cloths or towels into a 60°C wash once a week. That way, you don't give bacteria and lice, that greasy deposit of skin grease and detergent residues, a chance. These disappear at temperatures above 57°C. Extra tip: a dash of natural vinegar in the drum also helps against bacteria! You can read about how to keep your washing machine clean here! Good luck with your new eco-washing habit!
Sources: Milieu Centraal. Photo credits: washing machine with basket: Rachel Claire (Pexels), children with washing machine: Nicola Barts (Pexels).
