Hello friends, and welcome back to another Frugal Living Friday here at ASW Homestead!
Laundry is one of those never-ending chores in a family household. With six people in our home, the baskets fill up faster than I’d like to admit. Some weeks it feels like as soon as I fold one load, three more are waiting for me. And while clean clothes are a necessity, the cost of keeping up with laundry can really add up—between electricity, water, detergent, and the wear and tear on clothing.
The good news? With a few simple changes, you can cut your laundry expenses without sacrificing fresh, clean clothes. Over time, even small savings per load can add up to hundreds of dollars each year—money that could be better spent on family activities, projects, or simply tucked away for a rainy day.
Here are some tried-and-true ways to save on laundry costs while keeping your home running smoothly:
If you have space, air-drying your clothes on a line or drying rack can save you close to $100 a year in energy costs. Not only that, but your clothes last longer without all that heat and tumbling. There’s something wholesome and almost therapeutic about seeing clothes flutter in the breeze—it’s a little slower, a little simpler, and a lot more frugal.
Run an extra spin at the end of your wash. It pulls out more water, meaning less time (and money) spent in the dryer.
Heating water is the single biggest expense in a load of laundry. Unless you’re dealing with heavily soiled clothes, cold water does the job just fine.
Homemade laundry soap, stain removers, and even fabric softeners are easy to make, effective, and a fraction of the cost of store-bought products. Plus, they often use more natural ingredients, which feels better for both your family and the planet.
Detergent companies would love for you to use a full cap every time—but the truth is, you can often use half the amount and still get clean clothes. Experiment until you find your sweet spot.
Washing full loads saves water and electricity. The machine uses about the same amount of energy whether you’re washing three shirts or a full basket.
Half a sheet is usually plenty, and your box will last twice as long. Better yet, consider wool dryer balls for a reusable option.
A clean lint trap not only keeps your dryer safe but also helps clothes dry faster, saving energy every cycle.
Not everything needs to be washed after one wear—especially if you’ve only worn it for a short time or for a low-activity day. It saves water, electricity, and helps your clothes last longer.
If it’s in your budget, energy-efficient washers and dryers can be worth the investment. They use less water and energy, and in a busy household, the long-term savings really add up.
Laundry may never be our favorite chore, but it doesn’t have to drain our budget. A few mindful changes can put $300 or more back into your pocket each year—money that can be used for something far more enjoyable than soap and spin cycles.
For me, these little frugal shifts are part of living simply and intentionally. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about stewardship—caring for what we have, teaching our kids responsibility, and finding gratitude in the everyday rhythms of home life.
So the next time you fold a warm stack of clothes or hang shirts on the line, take a moment to thank God for His provision—and know that every penny saved is another step toward freedom and peace in your home.
Which laundry-saving tip will you try first this week?
Around here, we’re learning as we go—one season, one project, and one lesson at a time. I’m glad you’re along for the journey.
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