Use cold water - When you can, use the cold-wash cycle, which uses up to 90% less energy than a warm or hot cycle.  Use a detergent suitable for cold water wash.

Buy eco-detergent - Look for concentrated detergents that use less packaging and reduce water consumption.  Read the label for “easily biodegradable” which means the product will break down naturally into harmless substances.

Clothesline it.  When weather permits, dry your clothes outside on a clothesline.  Turn items inside-out if you’re worried about colourfastness.  If you live in an apartment, set up a drying rack inside with the windows open.  In winter you can set your drying rack up in front of your heater.

If your washer goes kaput.  When shopping for a new washing machine, look for a front-loader (remember to look for the Energy Star logo).  Here are the benefits:

• uses 60% less water, 40% less energy and up to 50% less detergent.
• is gentler on your clothes, so they will look newer, longer.
• reduces fabric piling.
• can fit into a smaller space than top-loaders.
• may cost more up front but will save you money over its lifespan.