Costs of washing clothes

There are a lot of parameters and for each person they are different. The first question is : Can we calculate what the costs are of washing our clothes ?

Buying the washer and dryer.

Calculating the investments of a new washing machine and dryer is very complicated. What brand are you looking for. In how many years you want to write-off the machines ? What is your personal taste.

Electricity cost of the washer and dryer.

How newer your machine is, the more efficient it is. An old machine will consume more water and electricity then a modern one. For this example lets say the electricity and water cost of the dryer is 1 euro per load.

Laundry detergent

Depending on the brand and how much you put in the washing machine, the cost can vary between 0.10 and 0.90 cent per load ! You stick to one brand and pay a bit more or you can shop for the one that is one sale.

Ironing.

Don’t forget the iron ! It’s not much, because a lot of people don’t iron a lot during a load, but it’s part of the costs.

Where to cut the costs ?

It’s easy to dry you clothes on a washing line when the sun is shining. This will save you dryers costs and personally I think your clothes are smelling way better. When it’s raining or cold and the clothes are not drying anymore by the wind, you can use the dryer of just use a washing line in house. Make sure you ventilate the room well.

Cutting costs by not using a dryer at all

For 5 years I don’t have a dryer machine at all ! Yes, I got the space and I don’t mind to work 15 minutes extra to hang the clothes on the lines. It saved me a lot, including buying a dryer machine.

For about 4 years now, I am making my own laundry detergent. It’s easy and its about 0.01 cent per load !

Washing with you own Laundry detergent

Conclusion :

You can cut in your washing costs if you don’t use a dryer at all and make your own laundry detergent. Try it !