How to Save Money on Laundry: Simple Tips That Work

Laundry can get pricey fast—detergent, water, energy, and wear on your clothes all add up. But you don’t have to break the bank to keep your wardrobe fresh. This guide shares easy, proven ways to cut laundry costs without sacrificing clean clothes. Whether you’re a budget newbie or a penny-pinching pro, these tips will help you save money every load.

Why Does Laundry Cost So Much?

Laundry expenses sneak up on you. A jug of detergent might cost $10-$15. Electricity and water for your washer and dryer? That’s $1-$2 per load, says the U.S. Department of Energy. Over a year, a family doing 300 loads could spend $300-$500. Yikes! The good news? Small changes can slash that bill.

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Top Ways to Save Money on Laundry

Here’s how to trim costs on detergent, energy, and more. Let’s dive in.

1. Use Less Detergent

Most people pour too much detergent—way more than needed. Check the bottle: a capful is usually enough for a full load. Overusing doesn’t clean better; it just wastes money and leaves residue on clothes.

• Tip: Use half the recommended amount for small or lightly soiled loads. It still works!
• Savings: A $12 jug lasting 60 loads (20 cents each) stretches to 120 loads (10 cents each) if you cut back.

2. Switch to Cold Water

Hot water hikes your energy bill—up to 90% of a washer’s energy goes to heating, per Energy Star. Cold water cleans just as well for most clothes, especially with today’s detergents.

• Tip: Save hot washes for towels or germy stuff like gym gear.
• Savings: Switching to cold can save $50-$100 a year, depending on your rates.

3. Wash Full Loads

Running half-empty loads wastes water, energy, and detergent. Wait until your hamper’s full—it’s worth it.

• Tip: If you need something fast, hand-wash it in the sink with a dab of soap.
• Savings: Cutting from 5 small loads to 3 full ones a week saves $50+ yearly.

4. Air-Dry When You Can

Dryers guzzle electricity—about 50 cents to $1 per load. Air-drying on a rack or line is free and gentler on fabrics.

• Tip: Hang shirts and socks indoors near a window or outdoors on sunny days.
• Savings: Skipping the dryer 50% of the time could save $75 a year.

5. Shop Smart for Detergent

Fancy brands cost more but don’t always clean better. Compare cost per load, not just the sticker price.

• Tip: Look for sales, buy in bulk, or try store brands—some rival the big names.
• Example: A $5 generic liquid (17 cents/load) beats a $15 name-brand (50 cents/load).

6. Make Your Own Detergent

DIY detergent is cheap and easy. Mix 1 cup washing soda, 1 cup borax, and a grated bar of soap (like Fels-Naptha). Use 1-2 tablespoons per load.

• Tip: Store it in a jar—it lasts months.
• Savings: A $10 batch can handle 100+ loads (10 cents each) vs. $20 for 60 store-bought loads.

7. Maintain Your Machines

A clogged washer or dryer works harder, burning more energy. Clean the lint trap after every load, and check hoses yearly for buildup.

• Tip: Run an empty hot cycle with vinegar monthly to clear gunk.
• Savings: A well-kept machine cuts energy use by 10-20%, saving $20-$40 a year.

Quick Hacks for Extra Savings

• Shorten Wash Cycles: Use the “quick wash” setting for lightly dirty clothes—less water and power.
• Skip Fabric Softener: It’s optional. Vinegar (25 cents a bottle) softens just as well.
• Reuse Dryer Sheets: One sheet can work for 2-3 loads if you cut it in half.
• Wear Clothes Longer: Jeans and sweaters can go 2-3 wears before washing—fewer loads, less cost.

People Also Ask: “How can I spend less on laundry?” Combine these hacks—less detergent, cold water, and air-drying—for max savings.

Real-Life Examples: Savings in Action

• Busy Mom: Switches to cold water and full loads. Saves $80 a year—enough for a family pizza night.
• Apartment Dweller: Air-dries half their loads, uses less detergent. Cuts $60 off their bill—hello, coffee fund!
• DIY Fan: Makes detergent at home, skips the dryer twice a week. Saves $150 annually—new shoes, anyone?

Common Mistakes That Cost You Money

Avoid these traps to keep cash in your pocket.

• Overloading the Washer: Clothes won’t clean well, so you’ll rewash—double the cost.
• Buying Tiny Bottles: Small detergent packs seem cheap but cost more per load.
• Ignoring Stains: Skipping pretreatment means rewashing. Dab stains with soap first.

User Tip: Pretreat with a $1 bar of soap—cheaper than extra cycles.

The Bottom Line: Laundry Savings Made Easy

Saving money on laundry doesn’t mean dirty clothes or endless effort. Start small—use less detergent, wash in cold, air-dry a few loads. Add hacks like DIY detergent or bulk buys as you go. You could shave $100-$200 off your yearly bill without breaking a sweat. Clean clothes, full wallet—win-win!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does laundry cost per load?

About $1-$2 with energy, water, and detergent—less if you cut back.

Is homemade detergent worth it?

Yes—it’s cheap (10 cents/load) and works for most clothes.

Can cold water really clean well?

Absolutely, especially with modern detergents made for it.

What’s the cheapest way to dry clothes?

Air-drying—zero cost and no energy used.

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Final Thoughts

Laundry doesn’t have to drain your budget. With smart choices—less soap, cold water, air-drying—you’ll save money and still rock fresh outfits. Test these tips and watch the savings stack up.