Sustainable Energy Use

Less is more: sustainable Energy Use in Laundry and Garment Care

It's no secret that by the time we have the latest fashion highlights in our wardrobes, some resources have been consumed and emissions caused during their production. But did you know that there are many ways to optimize energy consumption when caring for and washing your clothes? We have put together a few tips and tricks for you here.

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Consider washing less.

Sounds simple, and it is. Of course you shouldn't walk around in dirty or smelly clothes, but it's often enough to air your favorite items overnight, use a freshener or sanitize them with steam instead of putting them straight in the washing machine.

Use energy-efficient appliances.

The journey towards sustainable laundry practices begins with the choice of appliances. There are some general rules you can follow, for example, front-loading washing machines are usually more energy-efficient than their top-loading counterparts, as they use less water and detergent while achieving equally effective results. But there are also opportunities when it comes to ironing. If you invest in certified steam irons or steam generators, you can be sure that these appliances meet the strict energy efficiency standards. You will find the energy efficiency class of our products on the packaging and in the user manual.

Cold is so hot: Try washing at low temperatures.

One of the simplest yet impactful changes in laundry habits is transitioning from hot water washing to cold water. The majority of a washing machine's energy consumption goes towards heating water. Modern detergents are formulated to work effectively in cold water, making this switch not only energy-efficient but also practical. Cold water washing not only reduces energy consumption but also helps preserve the vibrancy and integrity of fabrics, extending the lifespan of clothing items.

Spin it right round: High spin speeds in washing machines.

Maximizing the spin speed of washing machines plays a crucial role in energy-efficient laundry practices. Higher spin speeds extract more water from the clothes during the washing cycle, reducing the moisture content that needs to be dried in the subsequent drying cycle. This not only saves energy but also contributes to shorter drying times,
making the overall laundry process more time and energy-efficient. Just be careful with delicate materials such as wool or silk. It always makes sense to check the label first to see whether the garment can withstand the higher spin speed. After all, you want to enjoy your garments for a long time.

There's something in the air: Try air-drying practices.

Outdoor clotheslines or indoor drying racks offer a simple, effective alternative that requires no energy input. Air-drying not only conserves energy but also minimizes wear and tear on clothing, extending their usability. For those who rely on a dryer, investing in energy-efficient dryers with humidity sensors can optimise drying times and reduce energy consumption. Regular cleaning of the lint filter, for example, ensures optimum airflow and reduces drying time and energy consumption.

A remedy for wrinkles: Ironing efficiency.

Ironing is another aspect of garment care that, when optimised, can lead to energy savings. Ironing clothes in batches, rather than one item at a time, reduces the warm-up time and increases the efficiency of the appliance . Additionally, taking advantage of residual heat by ironing clothes in the order of fabric sensitivity—starting with items that require lower heat settings—further enhances energy efficiency.

Ironing with Braun’s Eco Mode.

The Braun steam generator irons can be operated in Eco mode when only little energy is required. Depending on the model, energy savings of up to 55% can be achieved*.

*Compared to Turbo mode

10 Tips to care for clothes sustainably

1. Wash less

2. Wash cold

3. Use eco-detergent without fabric softener

4. Follow the care instructions

5. Wash clothes inside out

6. Use microplastic laundry bags

7. Air dry, if possible

8. Use the Eco-Mode when ironing

9. Store clothes properly

10. Repair clothes

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