Cold water laundry: where a washer’s energy really goes

Cold water laundry is one of the easiest energy savers in any home. The reason is simple: most of the energy a washing machine uses goes to heating the water, not spinning the drum.

The 90 percent number

Water heating uses about 90 percent of the energy it takes to run a clothes washer, according to Energy Star.

Switching from hot to warm water can cut that energy use about in half, and cold water cuts it even more.

Does cold water clean?

Energy Star says cold water generally cleans well, unless you are dealing with oily stains.

Easy wins

Wash full loads, pick the cold setting by default and save hot water for the loads that truly need it.

The fine print

Exact savings depend on your machine, your water heater and how often you wash.

Why it matters

Small changes you repeat every week add up. Laundry happens all year, so this one counts.

Try it yourself

Can you spot the greener option every time? Play Greener Choice, our free eco quiz game, and see how long your streak lasts.

Sources: Energy Star clothes washers.

Key takeaways on cold water laundry

Here is the short version on cold water laundry. Water heating uses about 90 percent of the energy it takes to run a clothes washer, according to Energy Star. Switching from hot to warm water can cut that energy use about in half, and cold water cuts it even more. Energy Star says cold water generally cleans well, unless you are dealing with oily stains. Wash full loads, pick the cold setting by default and save hot water for the loads that truly need it. Exact savings depend on your machine, your water heater and how often you wash. Small changes you repeat every week add up. Can you spot the greener option every time?

Use these points on cold water laundry as a starting point, check the numbers against your own home or business, and share what you learn with someone who can use it.