Wash clothes in cold water.
Most of the energy used in a washing machine is in the actual heating up of the water. So, when you use cold water to wash your clothes, it alleviates this energy usage.
Cold water is safe for all fabrics. It is actually beneficial for removing some stains and will cause less shrinking and fading of your clothes.
I use cold water for almost everything. I only use hot for my family’s towels, socks, sheets, and undergarments. That is three loads of the eight that I do each week.
If you are looking for the best choice for the earth and your pocketbook, try using cold water for washing.