Different ways to save money when doing your laundry

• Soak heavily soiled items before washing, and rub collars or other stains with household soap. Think about the type of clothes you buy; if you frequently do washes because you haven't got enough clothes of a particular type, then it may make sense to invest in a few more.
• Similarly, bath sheets are typically heavyweight cotton and excessively large, so consider choosing standard lightweight bath towels to save on energy.
• Where possible, use a high spin speed so clothes come out of the washing machine almost dry, with little need for tumble drying.
• Include occasional hot washes if you mainly do low temperature ones. This will get rid of bacteria and prevent the build-up of odours in your machine.
• Remember to regularly clean the lint filter on your washing machine.
• Install flood stop safety valves to shut off water flow if your washing machine or dishwasher hose breaks or slips off - an inexpensive way to stop your house getting flooded and to prevent water wastage.
• Divert the wash water from your laundry to other uses, such as flushing your toilet. You will need to check with your Council to make sure this is allowed and is installed to comply with regulations.
• Pre-soak or use the soak cycle when washing heavily soiled garments like your kid's soccer uniform. You'll avoid two washings and save energy.
• Switch to 30ºC. Washing at 30ºC instead of 40ºC can save you around £9 a year. Detergents designed for low temperatures during a 30ºC program clean the clothes well, and help use an average of 40% less electricity per wash.

Click here to see a range of super efficient washing machines as well as 6 Ways to Save Water and Money on Laundry.