- Cherished Moments with Mom and the Clothesline: Fond childhood memories involve helping Mom hang wet clothes on the backyard clothesline. “Oh, the fragrance of those sun-dried clothes,” evoking deep smiles.
- The Eco-Friendly Movement to Hang Clothes Outside: There’s a growing push for Americans to embrace outdoor clothes drying. Despite opposition, some states like Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, and Vermont passed laws allowing it. The New York Times notes resistance from community associations, claiming it devalues property and looks ‘too poor.’
- Environmental Impact of Dryers: Electric dryers consume almost 6% of total home electricity. Filmmaker Steven Lake’s upcoming documentary, “Drying for Freedom,” sheds light on the issue. The Department of Energy’s 2001 report emphasizes the significant energy usage compared to free sunlight.
- Project Laundry List’s Tips for Eco-Friendly Laundry: Project Laundry List suggests practical tips, from snapping clothes to minimize wrinkles to hanging them indoors in cold weather. The website advocates for a mindful approach to laundry, emphasizing the environmental impact of dryers.
- Feminism and Laundry: Author Kathleen Norris challenges stereotypes, stating that laundry, liturgy, and women’s work ground us without defining us. Despite feminist ideals, embracing laundry doesn’t diminish one’s identity. The article playfully concludes, “Like so many other feminists, I wash, I dry, I fluff, and I iron. Radical, I know. Blame my mother.”
