Change your washing machine setting
Save energy by washing laundry on economy mode
You can save a lot of energy, and money, by simply changing the way you use your washing machine.
Most washing machines have an ‘economy’ setting – which uses far less water and power than the other settings. If you’re not sure how to use this setting, see if there is more information in the user instructions.
Economy modes might take longer, but they can use between 35% and 59% less energy than a standard hot cycle.
With modern washing machines and detergents there’s often no need to wash your clothes on more than a 30°C wash. This should provide all the cleaning your laundry requires (the only exception being for heavily soiled items where a hotter wash may help clean clothes more thoroughly).
The Energy Saving Trust say that washing on economy setting or at 30°C can save £13 per year based on the average household*.
Our Green Doctors have identified helpful impartial advice on what can really make a difference in reducing bills and saving energy.
Download our supporting home resources – our action plan, our meal and shopping planners, and our stickers – to help you make changes which stick.
Handy hints for happy clothes
Some detergents work better than others at lower temperatures, so look to buy detergent that is designed to be used in economy mode. Using the right settings and temperatures with the right detergent will help to keep your clothes in top condition and looking newer for longer.
Getting the right detergent is far more important than high temperatures for keeping your clothes fresh and clean – so lower temperature cycles won’t lead to stale smells or unclean clothing.
To make the most of your washing machine, learn more about what types of laundry can be washed at a lower temperature. While clothes and towels are ideal for 30°C, some bedding needs to be washed at 40°C. If you’re not sure, check the label on your laundry to see if they can be washed at a lower temperature.
There are other options available too. Have a look at some of the eco-friendly alternatives, such as a laundry egg, and see if there’s more money you can save.
Make a plan. Stay warm. Save energy.
- Place one of our stickers on the washing machine as a reminder of your best settings.
- If your washing machine doesn’t have an economy setting, look for the shortest, coolest cycle available.
*Savings based on a typical three-bedroom semi-detached gas heated house, with an 88% efficient gas boiler and average gas tariff of 6.9p/kWh and electricity tariff of 27.4p/kWh. Emission savings include all scopes and greenhouse gases expressed as carbon dioxide equivalent. Correct as of October 2023.
