Saving tips: washing machine

01Choosing the right washing machine

Saving on the energy consumption of the washing machine starts with choosing the right washing machine. One washing machine is a lot more economical than another. Especially with older models, we still too often see that they are far too wasteful, in which case buying a new washing machine is often a good idea. The energy label of the washing machine shows how economical a washing machine is. The energy label runs from A (most economical) to G (least economical).

02What do you look for when buying a new washing machine?

The most economical washing machines (A) are often also the most expensive washing machines. This can make it tempting to choose a less economical but cheaper washing machine. Yet it is certainly worth considering choosing a more expensive but more economical model. After all, the difference is simply compensated after a certain time because the newest washing machine is extra economical in energy consumption. When buying an economical washing machine, it is also sensible to pay attention to things like warranty schemes. Because economical washing machines only bring cost savings in the longer term, it is important that the washing machine lasts as long as possible.

Besides taking into account the energy label it can also be interesting to consider a so-called hotfill washing machine. These are washing machines that are connected to the hot water tap. Normal washing machines are connected to the cold water tap and then heat the water themselves. This costs these washing machines much more energy than it takes for a hotfill washing machine.

Tips for saving on energy consumption

Besides choosing an economical washing machine, there are several other ways to save on the energy consumption of the washing machine.

Wash at a low temperature: By far the largest part of the energy the washing machine uses is spent on heating the wash water. By washing at a low temperature, the washing machine has to heat the water less and a lot of energy is saved.

Fill the drum as much as possible: By washing as much as possible in one go, fewer washes are needed and energy consumption is saved. Moreover, this also gives a better washing result. Of course, don't cram the drum full until nothing more fits, because then it simply won't work either.

Mix the laundry where possible: Is it impossible to fill a full drum? Then try to mix the different laundry where possible. For this you can use detergent that prevents colour run or so-called colour catcher sheets that prevent discolouration.

Don't leave the washing machine on longer than necessary: In many households, the washing machine stays on for some time after the end of the wash. Although the washing machine is no longer actively running at this point, it is still using energy. Prevent this by switching the washing machine off immediately after the wash has finished. This tip applies, incidentally, to almost every electrical appliance.

03Choosing an economical washing machine

How economical a washing machine is can be read from the energy label. All shops that sell washing machines indicate exactly how energy-efficient a washing machine is. The most energy-efficient washing machine has an A label. A more energy-efficient washing machine is generally more expensive, though. Thinking of a washer-dryer? Usually a separate washing machine and separate dryer are more energy-efficient. Of course you do need the room for that, both financially and in your home.

Yet such a large investment can be worth it, because there is such a thing as the payback period. With every wash, after all, you save on the energy bill.

After many washes, the difference with a cheaper but energy-guzzling washing machine is quickly compensated. The newest washing machines nowadays have a so-called hot-fill function and an eco button. These make it possible to wash at higher temperatures in an energy-efficient way.

Those who do not want to buy a new washing machine can also choose to take measures themselves to save energy. For example, by washing at a lower temperature. For most laundry, 30 degrees is sufficient. Heating water extra mainly costs a lot of unnecessary energy. Washing at a lower temperature therefore means that the washing machine uses less energy, because the water needs to be heated less. The disadvantage is that it can sometimes take a little longer until the laundry is properly clean. When buying a washing machine, always choose a machine with sufficient capacity that is suited to the size of the household, so fewer washes are needed and everything is clean in one go.

04Frequently asked questions about saving on the washing machine

A washing machine is a big consumer, something that is typical of appliances that generate heat. Fortunately, there are also ways to save on the washing machine, for example by washing at a lower temperature. You can read more about these and other matters in this FAQ.

Always check the label in the clothing, of course, but know that it is often really not necessary to wash at high temperatures. Washing machines have become very efficient at cleaning at low temperatures. That is why a washing temperature of 40°C or lower will usually suffice. An additional advantage is that your clothes will also last longer. Only with heavy soiling or when you want to kill bacteria or viruses is it advisable to wash at 70°C or higher (60°C is sufficient, but it does not get equally hot everywhere). Finally, it is good for your washing machine and your pipes to run a 90°C wash cycle now and then.