Virtuous Cycles

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Six Suggestions for a Lighter Load
1 - Greener Laundry Detergent
Seventh Generation (www.seventhgeneration.com), Ecover (www.ecover.com) and Bi-O-Kleen (www.bi-o-kleen.com) make both powder and liquid laundry detergents without problematic chemicals. They also disclose ingredients; opt for "fragrance free" alternatives where available, as even essential oil fragrances can irritate sensitive skin.

2 - DIY Detergent Concoctions
For a base, use Vermont Sunshine ($12.98/32 oz.; www.vermontsoap.com) or Dr. Bronner's ($14.49/32 oz.; www.drbronner.com) liquid castile soaps or Dri-Pak Pure Soap Flakes ($9.95/1-lb. bag; www.msodistributing.com). Combine them with washing soda, which cuts grease (because it's caustic, always wear gloves when handling); borax, which removes stains (this can cause vomiting if ingested, so keep away from pets and kids); baking soda, which reduces static and softens fabrics; or white vinegar, which softens fabrics, reduces static and bleaches clothes.

3 - Chlorine-free Bleach
Hydrogen peroxide-, percarbonate- and oxygen-based bleaches come in liquid and powder forms. Ecover Non-Chlorine Bleach Liquid ($5.59) and Powder ($4.09; www.kokogm.com); Bio-Pac Non-Chlorine Bleach Powder ($55.20/10-lb. bulk; www.bio-pac.com). Or choose plain hydrogen peroxide, available in the first-aid section of drugstores.

4 - Efficient Washer/Dryer
The Whirlpool front-loading LHW0050P is the most energy- and water-efficient washer currently rated by Energy Star ($799). The matching LEW0050P electric dryer has energy-saving features like moisture sensors and an air-dry option ($599; www.whirlpool.com). The single-unit LG WM3431HW All-in-One Washer Dryer consumes fewer resources during manufacture and is Energy Star-rated at 56 percent more efficient than federal standards ($1,497; www.lgwasherdryer.com).

5 - Outdoor "Dryers"
Abundant Earth's drying racks are made with wood scraps and new wood from second-growth, not old-growth, forests ($23-$76; www.abundantearth.com). String Rawganique's mildew-resistant 12 mm-diameter organic hemp rope between two sturdy objects for a clothesline ($40/about 72 feet; www.rawganique.com).

6 - Natural Fiber Baskets
Choose non-synthetic, petroleum-free laundry baskets and bags: Baska willow baskets ($6.99) and hampers ($16.99; www.ikea.com); Rectangular ($50) or Oval ($60) Palm Leaf Baskets with smooth interiors to prevent snags (www.containerstore.com); Acme Bags Organic Cotton Messenger bag ($14.95; www.reusablebags.com).

See the new Product Directory and the Laundry Supplies Product Report for more suggestions.

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