Eco Tip: Fire Your Dryer!

by 
Marsha Low, Weavers Way Environment Committee

The hot and (mostly) sunny summer weather may make us grumble and sweat, but it’s great for at least one thing: drying clothes outside. Along with the environmental benefits — the average household can reduce its carbon footprint by 2,400 pounds per year by line or rack drying — you could save about $100 per year in electricity, since your dryer is the third-most energy-hungry appliance in your home, after your refrigerator and washing machine. In addition, your clothing will last longer and smell great, and the sun is a natural whitener, gradually removing stains and brightening your whites. (Don’t like the look of faded black jeans and T-shirts? Turn them inside out before hanging them on the line.).\ 

And there’s no need to use a dryer in winter, either: Dry your clothes on a rack. They’ll dry quickly, because the heated air inside our homes is so dry. And meanwhile, the damp clothes will provide some welcome humidity. 

So fire your dryer, hire a clothesline or rack and enjoy the many benefits!