Life Hacks

Laundry Hacks That Save Time and Money in South Africa 2025

Published

4 weeks ago

August 7, 2025

Chiraag

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Smart Laundry Habits for Joburg Homes

Laundry day doesn’t have to drain your energy or budget. With rising electricity and water costs in 2025, a few clever tweaks can make washing smarter, cheaper, and more efficient. Here’s how to transform your routine with locally tested tips.

Wash at the Right Time

Electricity costs more during peak hours (4:00 PM to 9:00 PM). Save by washing in the morning or early afternoon, when energy demand is lower and solar drying is most effective. This also helps avoid load shedding disruptions.

Maximise Every Load

Wait for full loads before running your machine to save water and electricity
Adjust water levels for smaller loads like delicates or baby clothes
Use high spin speeds to reduce drying time, especially when air drying

Cold Water Washes Win

Heating water accounts for up to 90% of a washing machine’s energy use. Switching to cold water washes cuts costs and helps clothes last longer. Most modern detergents work just as well in cold water; just avoid overusing soap, which can leave residue and require more rinsing.

Air Dry Like a Pro

Joburg’s sunny climate is perfect for free drying. Skip the tumble dryer and:

Hang clothes with space between them for faster drying
Use hangers instead of pegs to avoid marks on shirts and dresses
Dry thicker items (like towels) in direct sunlight to prevent stiffness

Keep Your Machine Efficient

A clean washer works better and lasts longer:

Remove lint after every dryer cycle
Run a monthly cleaning wash with vinegar or a machine cleaner to prevent odours and buildup

Wear More, Wash Less

Not every item needs washing after one wear. Refresh clothes by:

Air steaming in the bathroom while showering
Spot cleaning stains instead of full washes
Rotating outfits to extend time between washes

Why This Matters in Joburg

With unpredictable power and rising bills, these small changes add up. Local WhatsApp groups already share best washing times to match load shedding schedules. By washing smarter, you save money and reduce strain on the grid, a win for your wallet and the city.

Final Tip: Stick to cold washes, full loads, and air drying. Your clothes (and budget) will thank you.