Green Our Way: Line Drying Rocks

Since I'm on a laundry kick lately, I thought I would post a photo I've had on Facebook for a while of my drying line. Even though I have a snazzy new dryer, I use my line more than the machine for a lot of reasons. Line drying is taking off as an eco movement. I love checking out Project Laundry List and their work. Here are their top 5 reasons to line dry:

1. Save money. Most households which abandon their clothes dryers save more than $100 per year on electric and gas bills.

2. Energy Conservation. Line drying conserves energy and helps to protect the environment by saving precious fossil fuels. It is the pinnacle of green laundry!

3. Freshness. Clothes and sheets smell fresh without additional chemical laundry fresheners. This is particularly important for those sensitive to perfumes and dyes used in detergents and dryer products.

4. Gentle on Clothing. Tossing and turning in a dryer can cause wear and strain on clothing seams and buttons. Line drying is more gentle to fibers.

5. Physical Activity. Hanging up laundry is a physical activity which you can do inside or outside.

6. Good Rays. Sunlight helps to bleach and disinfect laundry. This is particularly beneficial for sheets, towels and diapers. However, for dark clothes it can cause harm. Keep them in the shade.

7. Winter Humidity. Indoor racks can humidify the air in dry winter weather.

8. Prevent fire risks. Clothes dryer fires account for 15,600 structure fires, 15 deaths and 400 injuries annually.

9. Peacefulness. Taking time to enjoy the weather, the feel and smell of clean laundry can offer and outdoor experience that is meditative.

10. One Small Step. Line drying demonstrates that small steps can make a difference.

I also just finished adding myself to their clothesline map! I encourage you to line dry too.