The Little Changes

Around the farm, summer means hanging the laundry out on the line. Until now, it's simply been a great way to cut back on our electricity bill, but now I'm recognizing the many other environmental benefits it holds. Hanging out your laundry may seem to be a minimal difference, but every little bit helps, right? Most of Europe already cuts back on their fossil fuel use by hanging out their laundry, even in colder months. I'll be looking at Lehman's to get an indoor rack to hang the clothes up over the winter. Or if the mild winters continue, I may just keep using the outdoor line.

I'm also enjoying making a difference by using an all natural detergent from Seventh Generation. The Native Americans have a philosophy of thinking of their actions and how they will effect the next seven generations. After learning about this idea from my Global Environmental Issues class, I thought it appropriate to try out this Environmentally friendly company. If you're interested here's their website. So far we're loving the laundry detergent, dish detergent, tissues, and paper towels!

http://www.seventhgeneration.com/

Here's a few of the benefits to line drying over using your dryer.

• Some households can save up to $100 a year from switching to line drying. Most likely that would increase as line drying eliminates the use of dryer sheets. If you have a large family and are going through multiple loads of laundry think of how many dryer sheets that is. Switching to a 1/4 cup of vinegar in the washing machine will help in removing tough odors from the wash and keeps clothes softer after they are hung out. 
• Go green! Some serious energy conservation is happening here. I don't know the numbers, but think of the fossil fuels we would save if your entire neighborbood switched.
• Consider the activity and time an excuse to escape outdoors for a few minutes. I find it's soothing, relazing and gives me a chance to think. 
• If you haven't discovered it yet, the fresh scent of line dried clothing is so relaxing.

If you want a few more, take a look at this website, and get line drying!

http://laundry.about.com/od/ecofriendlylaundry/tp/10reasonstolinedrylaundry.htm

If you aren't convinced, just google, line drying vs electric dryer and make your own decision.