Over the course of their life cycle, our clothing and linens will undergo numerous washes, and each of these washes has an environmental impact. Fortunately, it doesn’t take much effort to reduce that negative impact . This is what we call responsible laundry at The Unscented Company.
We created this article to offer you a few different alternatives that you can gradually incorporate into your routine to make a big impact in your laundry room.
Summary
- What is Responsible Laundry?
- Step 1 - Switch to Solid Laundry Products
- Step 2 - Wash with Cold Water to Save Energy
- Step 3 - Air-Dry Clothes Whenever Possible
- Step 4 - Use Dryer Balls to Reduce Drying Time
- Step 5 - Use Cleaning Vinegar in Your Laundry Routine
- Step 6 - Brush and Air Out Clothes Between Washes
- Conclusion: A Small Change for a Big Impact
- FAQ
What is Responsible Laundry?
Responsible laundry refers to a set of habits and choices that reduce the environmental impact of washing clothes while preserving fabric quality . This includes using well-adapted products, minimizing energy and water use, and spacing out washes when possible.
Small adjustments can make a meaningful difference, especially when they’re easy to apply in everyday routines.
Step 1 – Switch to Solid Laundry Products
Solid products are at the top of our list for the easiest changes you can adopt. Our laundry pacs , for example, are now offered in a recyclable pouch for the 35-pac format. This lighter, more compact packaging helps reduce material use and lowers the environmental impact associated with transportation and storage, from our warehouse to your door.
|
Feature |
Solid Products (Laundry Pacs) |
Liquid Detergents |
|
Packaging |
100% recyclable bag |
Single-use plastic bottles |
|
Transport |
Lightweight & compact (fewer CO2 emissions) |
Heavy & bulky (more emissions) |
|
Dosage |
Pre-dosed (no waste) |
Frequent overdosing |
|
Formula |
Concentrated ingredients |
Contains a high percentage of water |
For removing everyday stains and hand-washing delicate items, a solid stain remover bar is a simple and effective solution . Our Stain Remover Bar is compact, plastic-free, and formulated without added fragrances.
Tough on common stains like coffee, grease, or makeup yet gentle on washable fabrics, it works well as a pre-wash treatment. Simply moisten the stain, rub with the bar, and soak the garment in cold water before adding it to a regular load.
And if your clothes need a touch of magic , our Laundry Whitener keeps whites white and colours bright, and effectively removes even the most stubborn stains and grease spots.
Because it is chlorine free, you can use it with every load or pre-soak your clothes for 24 hours to get amazing results!
Step 2 - Wash with Cold Water to Save Energy
All our soaps are formulated to be 100% effective in cold water . Cold water means less energy demand. Here are the key benefits:
- Energy Savings: As noted by Energy Star, up to 90% of the energy a washing machine uses goes to heating the water.
- Clothing Protection: You are less likely to shrink your clothes or fade colours.
- Longer Lifespan: Your clothes stay looking their best for longer.
- Wallet-Friendly: A noticeable reduction in your electricity bill.
Step 3 - Air-Dry Clothes Whenever Possible
Whenever possible, it is always best to air dry (indoors or outdoors). Choose wooden accessories which are more durable than plastic ones. With spring just around the corner, this is a beautiful way to bring some freshness into your home with fresh-smelling sheets!
Step 4 - Use Dryer Balls to Reduce Drying Time
Sometimes air drying just isn’t an option. Consider adding dryer balls (between 3 and 6 depending on the size of your load). Drying time will be reduced by up to 25%, and your clothes will be naturally softer, less wrinkled, and have almost no static.
Ready to try a simpler, more eco-friendly laundry routine? Discover our Sustainable Laundry Bundle.
Step 5 - Use Cleaning Vinegar in Your Laundry Routine
Cleaning vinegar is an underused part of the laundry routine. It’s an excellent deodorizer for removing sweat and mildew odours. It is also very effective at preserving dark colours and brightening light-coloured clothes. Just pour half a cup of cleaning vinegar directly into your load.
Step 6 - Brush and Air Out Clothes Between Washes
Sometimes all our clothes need is a little brushing and some air in between washes. A good brushing can also make woollens look new again. It never hurts to give your garments a quick turn on the line to air them out between washes.
Conclusion: A Small Change for a Big Impact
Adopting a responsible laundry routine is a simple act with a significant positive impact. By using gentle, well-adapted products and spacing out washes, we can keep our clothes for much longer while reducing our water and energy consumption.
Our Commitment to Responsible Laundry
At The Unscented Company, our approach to responsible laundry is built on years of experience and expertise in product formulation. As a certified B Corporation , we are committed to creating solutions that are not only effective but also environmentally conscious.
Our fragrance-free products are designed to minimize waste and are backed by a foundation of transparency and proven results.
Have questions about our products? Contact our team.
FAQ
How does responsible laundry reduce environmental impact?
Responsible laundry focuses on everyday habits that reduce the environmental footprint of washing clothes. Using well-adapted products, washing in cold water, reducing wash frequency, and air-drying all help lower energy and water consumption. These practices also extend the life of garments, reducing textile waste over time.
Are solid laundry products really effective?
Yes. Solid laundry products use concentrated ingredients that clean just as effectively as traditional liquid detergents, even in cold water. Their compact format eliminates unnecessary water and reduces packaging waste, while pre-measured doses help prevent overuse and improve overall washing efficiency.
Does vinegar leave a smell on clothes?
No. The vinegar scent fully dissipates during the rinse and drying process. Instead of masking odours, vinegar works by neutralizing odour-causing residues. It can also help preserve colours and maintain fabric freshness when occasionally used as part of a regular laundry routine.
How long do wool dryer balls last?
Wool dryer balls are designed to last for hundreds of drying cycles, often exceeding 1,000 loads with proper care. By improving air circulation in the dryer, they help reduce drying time, soften fabrics naturally, and replace disposable dryer sheets over the long term.
How often should you wash your clothes?
There’s no single rule, but most clothes don’t need to be washed after every wear. Items like jeans, sweaters, or lightly worn tops can often be worn several times before washing, while underwear and sportswear should be washed after each use. Washing less frequently helps reduce water and energy use and extends the life of garments.
