Changing 3 laundry habits could help Brits 'save more than £200'

According to bathroom and kitchen specialists at Plumbworld, many UK households could be unwittingly squandering over £200 annually due to routine laundry blunders.

Small habits such as using too much detergent, running half-empty loads, washing clothes at higher temperatures than necessary, neglecting regular filter and drawer cleans, and overdrying can escalate energy use, reduce the lifespan of appliances and wear out fabrics faster, often unbeknownst to people.

Whilst many households concentrate on cutting costs through heating and lighting, the laundry room is frequently overlooked.

Modern washing machines are highly efficient, but only when utilised correctly; incorrect settings, washing more often than required, or overusing detergent and softener can inflate running costs without improving results.

A few practical tweaks, such as appropriately-sized loads, lower-temperature cycles where suitable, accurate dosing and routine maintenance, can decrease energy use, protect fabrics and extend the life of appliances.

1. Using excess detergent

One of the most frequent mistakes is using too much detergent in the belief it will clean better. In truth, surplus powder or liquid creates extra suds that are harder to rinse, leading to longer cycles and increased water and energy usage.

Leftover residue in the fibres can make fabrics feel stiff and irritate skin, and it also builds up in the drawer, seal and hoses.Adhere to the dosage indicated on the packaging and adjust slightly for load size, soil level and local water hardness. A measuring cap, scoop or pre-dosed pods help maintain consistent quantities.

Using the correct amount safeguards clothes, reduces running costs and keeps the machine operating efficiently.

2. Running small or unnecessary washing loads

Another costly habit is running the washing machine for only a few items. Even when the drum is half full, the appliance uses nearly the same amount of electricity and water as it would for a full load.

Over time, this can add up to more than £100 a year in wasted energy. Wait until you have enough for a full wash, or use the eco or half-load setting if your machine has one.

Planning laundry days more carefully and combining family washes can also cut down on waste and save precious time.

3. Washing clothes too frequently

Frequent laundering is one of the biggest hidden expenses in many households, and this is no big surprise considering many people on social media admit they're unclear about how often they should wash their clothes.

The Plumbworld experts say items such as jeans, jumpers, and coats don't need to be cleaned after every use, and that over-washing not only wastes detergent, water, and electricity, but also causes clothes to fade and wear out quicker. The experts recommend airing items between uses or using a fabric refresher spray instead.

By simply cutting out two unnecessary loads each week, you could save approximately £80 a year on energy alone.

Washing at cooler temperatures, around 30°C, can decrease electricity usage with minimal impact on cleaning performance. Most contemporary detergents are designed for cooler cycles, which aids in fabric protection and reduces bills.

For hygiene items such as towels, bedding or heavily soiled loads, an occasional hotter wash may still be suitable; always check garment care labels and detergent guidance.

Together, these three small changes could save the average household over £200 a year without any extra effort or expense.