Consumer Reports: How to save money on your laundry

I just put a load in this morning. Laundry is one of those chores that never seems to end and might cost more than you think. From hundreds of gallons of water to lots of electricity each year. So, the experts at Consumer Reports, while they can't make your laundry disappear, they've got some easy tips to clean your clothes without breaking the bank. Sorting, washing, and folding laundry. It all takes time and money. But Consumer Report says there are easy ways to save. You really only need a high performing detergent. And remember, they're super concentrated, so only use about three tablespoons or about an ounce and a half. And you can also use it for pre-treating your stains. >> In CR's testing, Tide Plus Ultra Stain Release comes out on top for tough stains like grass and chocolate. But if those aren't your everyday messes, Costco's Kirkland Signature Detergent gets the job done and saves you money. Another tip, ditch the fabric softener and dryer sheets. Fabric softeners can leave a residue on your clothes, can reduce the absorbency of your towels. It can cause buildup in your machine. Dryer sheets can also leave a residue on your clothes and the moisture sensor in your dryer, which can cause it to run longer. >> Next, skip the hot water. Nearly 90% of your washer's energy use goes toward heating it. It can also keep colors brighter and prevent shrinking. When it's time to dry, use your dryer's automatic cycle setting. To save even more, go old school. Use a clothesline or hang dry. And if you're shopping for a new washer and dryer, this pair from LG earns top efficiency scores in CR's tests. One last reminder from Consumer Reports. Clean out your dryer's lint filter every time you use it. It'll dry your clothes faster, which can also help lower your energy bills. If skipping the dryer sheets, by the way, has you stuck with static, consider a reusable wool dryer ball instead. All right. So, that is for our kids and my husband because I am the only person who cleans the lid out of the dryer. >> I don't know. My husband's not listening. He's keeping bounce in business. He believes in a static guard.