
"Leaving aside the question of dry cleaning for now, the environmental impact of your laundry is mainly determined by the machines you use. Your choice to line dry or use a clothes dryer (and, if so, which one) has a significant impact on your household energy use. Your choice of washing machine affects both energy use and water consumption. But those are decisions you make once and live with for years. You have the opportunity to choose a greener laundry detergent every few weeks."
"Choosing an environmentally friendly laundry detergent can be a challenge. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency does not require brands to list all ingredients on the label. You must visit the manufacturer's website to find complete ingredient lists. You can also look for labels like the EPA's Safer Choice , which certifies products that use only ingredients from the EPA's Safer Chemicals List, or the more stringent verification system of the Environmental Working Group ."
Household laundry environmental impact is mainly determined by machines used, including line-drying versus clothes dryers, and the type of washing machine for energy and water consumption. Laundry detergent choices affect exposure to chemicals and can be changed frequently. The U.S. EPA does not require full ingredient lists on product labels, so manufacturers’ websites and certifications like EPA Safer Choice or Environmental Working Group verification help identify safer products. Laundry detergent ingredients are not well-regulated; phosphates are largely gone, but many ingredients remain concerning. Choosing unscented products reduces hidden toxic fragrances. Alternatives include essential oils, white vinegar, and wool dryer balls. Warm or hot water is recommended for heavily soiled items and cloth diapers.
Read at Earth911
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