Ugh. Is there anyone that actually likes doing laundry? This has really been on my mind lately since I am thinking of trying cloth diapers with this little one expected in July. I tried them with my oldest son and it didn’t work out, for several reasons. I was too chicken to try with my second son. Now this is the last one and I am thinking of all those disposable diapers going into the landfills and all that money wasted on them! Which brings me back to the laundry. I hate it anyway and to add more on top of that! I think it might be worth a shot though…

Ways to Green Your Laundry (without too much trouble):

• Buy commercial laundry detergents that are more eco-friendly. Some brands to consider are Bi-O-Kleen, Seventh Generation, Ecover, Life Tree and Earth Friendly Cleaner. These are vegetable-oil-based without synthetic fragrances.
• Castile soaps like Dr. Bronner’s also work great, although it would be wise to prep your clothes before switching from detergent to soap by washing them initially with 1/2 cup of white distilled vinegar for a full load to prevent yellowing. Adding 1/4-1/2 cup baking soda is also useful to prevent build-up of soap.
• Add 1/2 cup washing soda to wash cycle will act as a booster for heavily soiled clothes.
• Add 1/2 cup baking soda to rinse cycle to deodorize and brighten clothes.
• 1-2 cups of vinegar added to the rinse cycle will act as a fabric softener.
• Use cold water to wash and line dry when you can. Always use cold water to rinse.