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9 ways to save money on laundry.

15 Apr 2026

Saving-money-on-laundry cheat sheet:

Wash at 30°C (or lower where suitable).
Use eco mode (longer cycle but lower energy).
Only wash full loads (but don’t cram it in).
Measure detergent properly. More does NOT mean better.
Air dry whenever possible.
Pre-treat stains to avoid rewashing.
Run your machine during off-peak energy hours.
Clean your washing machine monthly.

In the UK, the average energy cost of running a washing machine is between 13p and 26p per load.¹ It’s mostly down to what temperature you use, how efficient your machine is and the energy tariff you are on.

And that’s just the wash. Now add in machine drying.

A traditional tumble dryer can cost up to £1.50 per load, while even the more efficient heat pump models can cost 70p per cycle.²

What you’re paying most for is hot water, hot air and any time you need to rewash.

The good news is… you can do something about all 3 of those things!

9 ways to save money on your laundry.

a washing machine dial showing temperatures and eco mode

1. Turn the temperature down.

Most laundry does not need 40°C or 60°C to get clean. Modern detergents like smol laundry capsules and smol laundry liquid work brilliantly at 20°C and this can use around 70% less electricity than a 60°C cycle.³

Less energy used
Lower electricity bill
Less wear on fabrics
Colours stay brighter for longer

Hotter washes still have their place (towels, bedding or when somebody is poorly). But for the everyday, cooler washes work well.

2. Eco mode.

Eco cycles take longer (which feels odd).

But they use lower temperatures and less water so they need that time rather than heat to do the cleaning. Yes, it’s a longer wash but less energy is used.

a white washing machine with laundry spilling out into a wicker basket

3. Full loads.

That half load of laundry, that’s washing just a few items? It could cost you more.

Running 2 half-loads can consume nearly twice the energy of a single full load⁴, because the machine still heats water and spins every time you press start; even on smaller loads. Aim for:

A full drum
A hand’s width of space at the top
Clothes loosely packed, not crammed in

4. Dosed detergent.

If you’re using too much detergent then you’re wasting money and resources. Stick to the dose required.

smol laundry capsules give you accurate dosing without the excess as does smol laundry liquid and fabric conditioner (with their easy-to-dose pumps).

5. Air dry when possible.

Tumble dryers are one of the most expensive appliances to run in the home. Even air drying just half your loads can noticeably cut your energy bill. Try to:

Increase spin speed (where fabric allows) to remove more water

Position indoor airers near a window

6. Time your wash.

If you're on a time-of-use (TOU) tariff like Economy 7, running your machines outside peak hours can cut costs further.

Peak hours are often late afternoon to early evening.

a person uses smol stain gel on a blue striped garment

7. Pre-treat stains.

Running the same load twice because stains didn’t come out the first time, means double the energy, detergent and water. To tackle stains:

Rinse quickly
Apply stain gel
Don’t let it dry out and wash as soon as possible

8. Clean your machine.

A dirty machine not only smells musty but also:

Won’t clean as well
Can leave residue behind
Shortens its lifespan

Clean your washing machine and your laundry will thank you.

9. Ask: does this really need washing?

Not everything needs a wash after one wear. Jeans for example can go several wears.

Overwashing clothes will wear them out faster so get creative around how to do your laundry without washing your clothes.

Saving money on laundry FAQs.

¹ From Inthewash and EcoFlow based on average kWh consumption and UK unit rates

² Energy Saving Trust guidance

³ TIS, Mibelle Group

⁴ Lifestyle sustainability directory 2024

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