Saving on your washing machine: how to reduce your utility bills.

According to The Sun: Doing laundry is one of those endless chores that brings little joy to most people. However, if it takes up your time, it shouldn't burden your budget.

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Here are a few tips on how to reduce your laundry costs.

REDUCE TEMPERATURE

Try washing at 30 degrees instead of 40. This can save an average of up to 38% on costs, according to Currys. If you lower the temperature to 20 degrees, you'll save 62%. However, remember that towels, bed linen, and underwear are best washed at 60 degrees to kill bacteria.

SODA CRYSTALS

Adding soda crystals to your wash can help remove stains, as well as soften the water and your clothes. Even better, they are significantly cheaper than most laundry detergents – a 1 kg bag costs just £2 at Savers. Mix them with your laundry powder in equal parts in an old ice cream tub to increase the volume of powder and use it longer.

BE CAREFUL WITH MEASURING

Almost all of us use too much laundry detergent. Just a few tablespoons are enough. Use the measuring cup for fabric softener to avoid pouring more than necessary. Some items, like sportswear, are better washed without softener, as it coats the fabric and can trap odors. The same goes for towels, as this reduces their absorbency.

COST-FREE SOFTENER

White distilled vinegar is a secret weapon in laundry. It not only softens the water but also helps eliminate odors, making it great for towels and sheets. A large bottle of distilled vinegar costs just 35p at Tesco.

ECO WASHING

The eco wash setting is ideal for most loads. It uses less water and energy, reducing your daily expenses. When loading your washing machine, leave at least a palm's width of space between the top of the drum and the load, as overcrowding can reduce washing effectiveness.

• All prices on this page are correct at the time of publication. Offers may be limited by stock availability.

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