At some point in our lives, we’ve all been there – standing in front of a pile of dirty laundry wondering how we’re going to get through it all. Doing laundry can be a tedious task, but it’s a necessary one. And let’s be honest, it can also be expensive. Between detergent, fabric softener, and dryer sheets, the cost of doing laundry can add up quickly. That’s why we’ve put together some DIY laundry hacks to help you save time and money on your laundry. Check out a new wash and fold laundry service near me to see if they can offer more affordable prices or any additional perks, such as a loyalty program or discounts for bulk orders.
- Use Vinegar as a Fabric Softener
If you’re tired of spending money on fabric softener, try using vinegar instead. Not only is it cheaper, but it’s also more eco-friendly. Add a half cup of vinegar to your rinse cycle instead of fabric softener. Your clothes will come out feeling just as soft as if you had used fabric softener, and you won’t have to worry about any harsh chemicals.
- Make Your Own Laundry Detergent
Store-bought laundry detergent can be expensive, and many brands contain harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin. Making your own laundry detergent is a great way to save money and avoid these chemicals. There are plenty of recipes online that use simple, natural ingredients like baking soda and washing soda. Plus, you can customize the scent of your detergent by adding essential oils.
- Use Tennis Balls to Speed Up Drying Time
Dryer sheets can be expensive, and they’re not the most eco-friendly option. Instead, try using tennis balls in your dryer to help speed up drying time. The tennis balls bounce around in the dryer, helping to separate your clothes and allowing hot air to circulate more efficiently. This means your clothes will dry faster, and you’ll save money on your energy bill.
- Wash Clothes in Cold Water
Did you know that washing your clothes in cold water can save you money on your energy bill? Heating water accounts for about 90% of the energy used in a washing machine cycle. By washing your clothes in cold water, you can save up to $0.50 per load. Plus, washing in cold water is gentler on your clothes, so they’ll last longer.
- Hang Clothes to Dry
Using a clothesline or drying rack to dry your clothes is not only more eco-friendly, but it’s also cheaper than using a dryer. Not to mention, hanging your clothes to dry can actually help them last longer. Dryers can be tough on clothes, causing them to shrink, fade, and wear out faster. Hanging your clothes to dry is a simple way to extend their lifespan.
- Use Baking Soda to Remove Stains
Stains can be tough to get out, but baking soda can help. Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a paste, then apply it to the stain. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then wash the garment as usual. The baking soda will help lift the stain, leaving your clothes looking as good as new.
- Make Your Own Dryer Sheets
Dryer sheets can be expensive, and they’re not the most eco-friendly option. But you can make your own dryer sheets using just a few simple ingredients. Mix together equal parts water and white vinegar, then add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Cut up an old t-shirt or towel into small squares, then soak them in the vinegar mixture. Squeeze out the excess liquid and toss one or two squares into the dryer with each load of laundry.