http://thegogreenblog.com/tip-of-the-week-only-wash-full-loads-of-laundry/
Welcome to another week of my SMART goal challenge to save electricity. This week went well, partly because I was camping for three days and had no access to electricity. When at home, I continued to turn off lights that were not being used, wash dishes by hand instead of in the dishwasher, and I added one more thing to the list: doing less laundry. I learned that running the washer and dryer uses quite a bit of electricity so my goal is to only wash one load of clothes every other week instead of once a week.
Turning off lights is getting to be more second nature, but I still find myself forgetting; especially with 'little' lights that seem like they wouldn't matter. When I come home to a light that was left on, I am sure to make a mental note to remember next time. Washing dishes by hand has been kind of fun. It is a way to just relax and think or listen to music while letting the warm water soak your hands. Never thought I would hear myself say that about dishes.
The most challenging part of this week has been my effort to wash less laundry. One thing that makes me feel organzied and clean is having clean clothes once a week and not let them pile up. So it has taken some effort and flexibility on my part. I am trying to use less clothes, and re-wear things as much as possible. One way I am going about this is by using the same jeans for four or more days in a row (if not repulsive). That way less clothes pile up in a dirty heap.
As I tried to do these three things this week, I felt great. I can't think of many things better to me than a good challenge. When I messed up (leaving lights on), I did not feel guilty but more like 'oh, I can do better!' So it has been fun!
For next week I am going to stick with the same goals: less lights, less water (no dishwasher), and less laundry. It will be great when they become second nature, then I will add more. Stay tuned and please feel free to join me in this challenge :)
Nice job!
ReplyDeleteYou know, I actually do kind of enjoy my dish washing too. It can be a time to relax, let my mind wander, listen to music, as you mentioned, or I listen to a podcast or comedy. Something that might reset me as a study break, make me laugh or what ever to rejuvenate and get to another task. And, like you, I think my mother is spinning in her grave... I wasn't so eager to help washing dishes when I was a kid. I think I like doing it by myself.
But, I digress...
Nice job on your goal and keeping to find new things to add to it. That is fantastic!
I also try to re-ware clothes as much as I can so the laundry doesn't pile up. Mostly jeans and towels I like to re-use whenever possible. We have to pay to do our laundry so I try to limit my loads to one per week. Sounds like you are enjoying the new things you are trying!
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