Going Green Cheap - In the Laundry Room

Global warming is an increasing concern, we all know that. But how can we be more eco-friendly? Buying a new hybrid car or making major home changes just aren't options for a strained budget. But small changes in our day-to-day routine can add up. Though more businesses are beginning to provide products that are better for the environment, finding them can still be difficult at times, and often more expensive. Fortunately, there are several products readily available on grocery store shelves to help us go green, and help save money at the same time. So let's look at the laundry.

Vinegar - Regular white distilled vinegar added to the rinse cycle in your washer can replace fabric softeners, remove odors, and prevent fading. Use about ½-1 cup. This is also useful for removing such stains as grass and coffee by soaking the fabric briefly before washing. To help clean and freshen the washer run a regular cycle with just 2 cups of vinegar. You can also help prevent colors from running by soaking new clothing in a 1:1 solution of vinegar and water for around 10 minutes before washing.

3% Hydrogen Peroxide - This can be an alternative to bleach in your washer to whiten and brighten. Use about 1 cup in a load. It also works well for blood and protein-based stains. Apply it with a clean cloth and gently rub the stain, being careful not to over-saturate. Blot the excess, rinse with cold water, then blot dry and wash normally. Hydrogen peroxide should not be used on certain fabrics; such as wool, silk, or dry-clean only clothing. If you are worried about color fastness, test a spot inside where it won't show.

Baking Soda - Another bleach alternative; use ½ cup per load to help whiten, soften, and remove odors from clothes. This can also help remove perspiration stains by making a paste with 4 tablespoons baking soda and ¼ cup water and rubbing gently into the stain then washing as normal. Test the fabric first for color fastness. You can also use the same mixture to remove black scuff marks from shoes. Leather and suede can be cleaned by sprinkling some baking soda on the stain, leaving for a few minutes, then brushing off. Remove chlorine from bathing suits by putting 1 tablespoon of baking soda in a sink full or water and soaking them.

Even if all the recent media coverage about the environment doesn't sway you, saving money is something that everyone has an interest in all the time. Switching out products you currently use with a couple of the suggestions here can help you save some green while going green.