What is better for the planet? Clothes vs. washing?

Question

I don't have many t-shirts or pants and so I wash the ones I have often. Is this better or worse for being 'green'? I am in an apartment and there is no small load setting for the washing machine so it does use a lot of water. (Would the delicate setting use less water?) I do hang dry all my clothes. But should I buy more clothes and not wash as often?

Answer 1

The delicate cycle would only agitate the clothing more gently, and would most likely leave the clothes less-than-clean.

Why don't you and a friend do laundry together and split the cost, thus saving water, time and helping the environment.

You probably should have a few more items of clothing, but could spend all your time at home in the buff, which would seriously cut down on your laundry...but might increase your need for new slipcovers! <G>

P.S.  I just read that buying clothes made from bamboo, which is a current trend, uses more energy to make than a plain old piece of clothes made out of cotton...so save the bamboo for the Pandas to eat!!

Answer 2

The delicate cycle agitates the clothes at a less aggressive speed, but uses the same water, but also uses less energy to operate the washer, so while you might not be getting your clothes as clean, or saving water you will be saving on electricity.

however to save on both water and electricity, buy more clothes, and wash less often.

And your clothes will last longer.