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The smart way to save energy on laundry day

Washing clothes doesn’t have to be an energy drain—literally. One of the simplest ways to cut down on electricity and water use is often right under your fingertips: the cycle length. Shorter cycles use less energy, and for lightly soiled or small loads, they work just as well as longer ones.

Most modern machines offer a “quick wash” or “rapid” option, designed to clean clothes efficiently in under 30 minutes. These modes are perfect for items that aren’t heavily soiled—think workout shirts, lightly worn jeans, or towels used once. By choosing these faster settings, you’re not just saving power, you’re also freeing up time.

Another bonus? Less wear and tear on your clothes. Extended cycles with high agitation and heat can degrade fabrics over time. A quicker, gentler spin keeps your favorite pieces looking newer, longer.

Of course, full or heavily soiled loads still call for a regular cycle. But for everyday freshness, there’s no need to default to the longest option. Be mindful of the load size and soil level, and let that guide your choice. Front-loading machines, in particular, are efficient even on shorter cycles, thanks to their design.

And while you’re trimming cycle times, consider washing in cold water. It’s even better for energy savings, most of the power your machine uses goes toward heating the water. Combine a quick cycle with a cold rinse, and you’ve got an eco-friendly laundry routine that doesn’t compromise cleanliness.

In the end, smarter washing isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing better. A few small tweaks, like choosing speed over duration when possible, add up to real savings on your bill and your machine’s lifespan. So next time you’re loading the laundry, ask yourself: does this really need an hour-long spin? Chances are, it doesn’t.

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Is it cheaper to do your laundry after 8pm?

Many householders wonder if timing their chores can shave a few pounds off their energy bills — especially when it comes to running appliances like washing machines and tumble dryers. The short answer? Yes, doing your laundry after 8pm can be cheaper — but only if you wait until closer to 10pm.

Electricity prices fluctuate throughout the day based on demand. The period between 4pm and 9pm is considered peak time, when people return home, switch on lights, cook dinner, and generally use more power. This surge in demand drives up the cost of electricity, which is reflected in your energy tariff if you're on a variable or time-of-use plan.

Conversely, off-peak hours, typically from 10pm to 8am, are when national electricity usage drops. With fewer people drawing power, energy suppliers often offer lower rates during this window. So while 8pm marks the beginning of a transitional period, the real savings kick in after 10pm.

That said, if you’re on a standard flat-rate tariff, the time you run your washing machine makes little difference to your bill. But if you're on an economy or smart tariff, such as Economy 7, shifting your laundry routine to the early hours can lead to noticeable savings over time.

It’s also worth remembering that modern washing machines often come with delay-start features, letting you schedule cycles to begin overnight. Combine that with an energy-efficient model, and you’re not just saving money, you’re also reducing your environmental footprint.

So while tossing a load in after 8pm won’t break the bank, waiting until after 10pm is the smarter move, both for your wallet and the grid.

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How much does a One-Hour clean cost in the UK?

If you're wondering, “How much is a 1-hour clean?”, the answer depends on the type of service and where you live. For one-off or deep cleaning jobs, cleaners typically charge between £20 and £30+ per hour. This rate can vary based on location, the complexity of the tasks, and how frequently you book the service.

Unlike regular maintenance cleans, deep cleaning sessions are more thorough—think scrubbing grout, cleaning behind appliances, and sanitising bathrooms and kitchens. Because of this, most professionals won’t just bill by the hour for a single room. Instead, they often quote a flat rate per visit. For a standard deep clean of a whole property, expect to pay anywhere from £80 to £150 or more, depending on the size and condition of your home.

A one-bedroom flat might fall on the lower end, while a three-bedroom house in need of serious attention will likely cost more. Some companies may still use an hourly model, especially for larger homes or ongoing services, but many prefer fixed pricing to avoid surprises.

It’s also worth noting that prices have crept up over the last few years due to rising living costs and demand for reliable cleaners. In major cities like London, rates can be 20–30% higher than the national average.

While £20–£30 per hour is a good benchmark, most people end up paying a flat fee for a deep clean session. The key is to be clear about your needs—whether it’s a quick refresh or a full spring clean, so you can get an accurate quote and avoid hidden charges.

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