Hanging your clothes outside to dry, also known as line drying, has been a popular choice for many years, especially among those who are environmentally conscious or looking to save money on energy bills. The fresh air, natural sunlight, and gentle breeze can refresh your clothes and give them a crisp, clean scent without using a dryer. Not only does it save electricity, but it also reduces wear and tear on your clothing. However, line drying isn’t without its challenges. Weather conditions, allergies, and potential fabric damage are just a few factors to keep in mind. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks of hanging your clothes outside to dry, so you can make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle.
The Environmental Benefits of Hanging Your Clothes Outside
One of the major reasons people opt for hanging their clothes outside is the environmental benefit. Line drying helps reduce your carbon footprint by eliminating the need for a clothes dryer, which consumes a significant amount of electricity. On average, a clothes dryer uses between 2 to 6 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per load, depending on the dryer’s efficiency and the load size. This can add up quickly, with the average household running the dryer about 300 times per year, leading to an annual energy consumption of around 600 kWh.
By drying clothes outdoors, you are conserving energy, which in turn reduces greenhouse gas emissions. This simple change can save the average household around $100 to $150 per year on energy bills. It’s a small change that can add up over time, especially if you live in a large household or frequently wash laundry. It’s an easy way to do your part in combating climate change and conserving natural resources.
