Experts Reveal the Most Cost-Effective Time for Laundry: How to Save £350.

According to The Sun: We all aspire to save money, especially when energy prices rise in winter.

An expert shared advice on the best time to do laundry to reduce energy costs by more than £350.

The washing machine accounts for about 10% of the average household's energy expenses. Using electricity during peak hours can significantly increase bills.

However, if you choose the right time to do laundry, you can save up to 40%, which for an average family, would be around £350 a year.

“The biggest mistake we see in people is doing laundry during peak hours, which usually occur from 4 PM to 7 PM. This is when most people are cooking and using other appliances, so the demand for electricity is highest, and therefore the prices are too.”

Best Time for Laundry

Find out about your energy tariff by visiting your energy supplier's website.

If you have a time-of-use tariff, this usually means that discounts apply from midnight to 7 AM.

You don't need to set an alarm or stay awake all night to take advantage of cheaper rates.

Many washing machines have a timer or delayed start function, so you can load the wash at any time.

Just set the machine to automatically start during off-peak hours so that the cycle finishes when you wake up.

Economic Washing to Reduce Costs

Many washing machines offer an eco mode, but not all users know how to take advantage of it.

In this mode, your machine consumes less water and electricity, reducing bills.

If the laundry isn't heavily soiled, it can still come out clean even after an eco wash.

Washing at lower temperatures also helps maintain the appearance of the fabric for longer, reducing strain on the fibers.

Devices that Consume Energy in Standby Mode

Devices in the home can subtly consume electricity, increasing your costs when not in use.

This can cost about £45 a year, and the amount could be even higher if you have many connected devices.

• Television

It’s easier to leave the television in standby mode, but in the long run, it will cost more.

• Desktop Computer

By leaving the computer on or in standby mode when not in use, you waste resources.

• Microwave Oven

The microwave consumes power even in standby mode. Unplug it to save.

• Outdoor Signal Lights

These lights can deter theft, but sensitive lamps that turn on too easily lead to extra costs.

• Electric Towel Warmer

Its main purpose is to warm towels, but you still have to pay for it, especially if it’s not in use.

Your spending will depend on the model of your washing machine and the rates for electricity and water.

Items like towels, bed linen, and underwear should be washed at high temperatures to kill bacteria.

Conversely, eco mode is suitable for lightly soiled t-shirts and clothing.

Additional Ways to Save on Laundry

Besides eco settings, there are other ways to lower your electricity bills when doing laundry.

Only run the machine when it’s fully loaded. Fewer washing cycles per week will significantly save you throughout the year.

Try to use cold water cycles more often. Most energy is spent heating the water.

Avoid using tumble dryers for drying clothes. In summer, drying items outside is easy, but in winter, there are devices available for this.

Also, consider purchasing a heated drying rack, which consumes significantly less energy than a tumble dryer.

Before washing, run an additional spin cycle to remove as much water as possible.