More than a quarter of men still live by traditional norms and refuse to do the laundry at home. Furthermore, people from Limburg are the most economical washers, while those from Drenthe waste the most money using the washing machine.
Almost everyone knows that washing at 30 degrees is the most economical, yet the majority of Dutch people still choose higher temperatures. Mainly because they are used to it or believe it cleans the laundry better. Only a quarter of washers usually opt for the most economical choice.
Much to Improve
All this is revealed by research from Peil.nl commissioned by Stichting Hier klimaatbureau into the laundry habits of the Dutch.
"Dutch people can still improve a lot in their laundry habits," says Bart de Voogd, director of the climate agency. "With current equipment and detergents, about half of the loads you now wash at higher temperatures can also be cleaned at 30 degrees. This is not only better for the climate but also saves energy costs. Washing at 30 degrees is half as expensive as washing at 60 degrees and a quarter cheaper than washing at 40 degrees."
Heating water is expensive
The washing machine uses most of its energy to heat the water. Washing at lower temperatures therefore saves a lot of energy. To get dirty laundry properly clean at a lower temperature, you do need to wash longer. That’s why an eco-cycle often takes a bit longer than a regular program.
Limburg sets a good example. No less than 38 percent of Limburg residents most often choose to wash at 30 degrees. Drenthe is the least economical with only 11 percent.
Of the men, 27 percent say they never do the laundry, compared to 4 percent of women.
Don't feel like doing the laundry yourself? Outsource this task to Strijkservice Haaglanden.
