What hours to not do laundry?

When to Skip the Laundry for a Greener Routine

Believe it or not, the time you choose to do laundry can make a difference—for your energy bill and the planet. While tossing in a load might seem like a small act, the timing affects how much strain your household puts on the electrical grid.

Across much of the U.S., electricity demand peaks during the middle of the day—typically from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.—when people are up, working, cooking, and running appliances. During these hours, utilities often rely on less efficient energy sources to meet demand, increasing carbon emissions. That’s why experts suggest avoiding laundry between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. whenever possible.

Instead, aim to wash clothes earlier in the morning or after 8 p.m. These off-peak hours are when energy grids tend to operate more efficiently, especially as renewable sources like wind and solar contribute more power during early mornings or overnight. Doing laundry during these windows helps reduce pressure on the system and lowers your household’s carbon footprint.

Even better? Many modern washing machines have delay-start features, so you can load your machine in the evening and set it to run after 8 p.m. without lifting a finger. It’s a simple shift that adds up—especially if your entire neighborhood starts doing the same.

Of course, this advice varies slightly depending on your region and utility provider, but the general idea holds: timing matters. In a world where small changes can have big ripple effects, rethinking when you wash clothes is an easy way to support a cleaner, more efficient energy future. And honestly, who wouldn’t want softer sheets and a clearer conscience? Just set the timer, go to bed, and let the quiet hours do the work.