Smells like sunshine: Why I Started Drying Clothes on a Clothesline (And Never Looked Back)

My mother and I were discussing over the phone a few weeks ago, about getting back to the basics...

She asked if I had thought of using a clothesline.

I actually had a clothesline up once, to hang beach towels, but I'd taken it down to make room for the hammock.

But I got to thinking...

WHY not give it a try. Her discussion and blog post was convincing. After all, not only would I save money on electric, but it would reduce the wear and tear on my clothes and cut back on the time I spent waiting on my dryer.

I tied two lines and started hanging my clothes to dry. This has been two weeks ago and I am completely caught up with laundry. The first time in MONTHS.

Less than a year ago, I'd purchased a fancy brand new HIGH EFFICIENCY washer and dryer.

In less than 6 months, I had a repairman fix the dryer.

Although my washer and dryer are doing well, I regard their fancy computerized dials with suspicion.

I like my new "dryer" the best... My clothes smell like sunshine.

So, thanks Mom. Simple IS better.

Why I Love Line Drying

I never expected something as simple as hanging laundry outside would become one of my favorite household routines. Besides lowering our electric bill, I've noticed my clothes last longer because they aren't constantly tumbling in high heat. Towels, blue jeans, and everyday clothing all seem to wear more slowly when they're air dried.

One unexpected bonus is the fresh scent. It's hard to describe, but clothes dried outdoors really do smell cleaner. Sunshine and fresh air create a freshness that no dryer sheet has ever been able to duplicate.

If you're interested in even more traditional laundry methods, you might also enjoy my article about washing clothes off-grid without electricity, where I share simple techniques that work whether you're homesteading, camping, or preparing for emergencies.

How to Wash Clothes Without a Washing Machine (What I Learned Traveling Overseas)