Why I Hang My Laundry

Exercise, environmentalism, and patience all on display

Throughout Europe this is a common sight. Photo by author taken in San Sebastian, Spain.

It’s simple exercise that announces you care about the environment, working the shoulders and actually using the original wind and solar to dry clean clothes.

Why you should hang out the laundry

It reduces the wear and tear on your clothing; a dryer is rougher than a line and will result in your clothes lasting longer.

It feels good to get outside and move your arms and shoulders. We need both exercise and natural light to feel good and fight depression and anxiety.

It facilitates a slow, mindful existence. You can bless each piece you tack to your line or you can throw it up willy-nilly. Either way, it works. Marie Kondo would recommend the blessing. Think of it as a time to grow your patience.

Save money on your electricity bill. Some estimates claim your washer and dryer command as much as 13% of your electric bill.

It was a “whites” day for this family in Spain. Photo by author.