Doing the laundry isn’t exactly anyone’s favourite task, but washing workwear can be a whole different challenge. Whether it’s oils, inks, dirt, or sweat, uniforms go through a lot and often need more than a standard spin to come clean.
But with all that extra effort, it’s easy to overlook the bigger picture: the cost. From the energy needed to heat the water, to the chemicals in your detergent, washing workwear can have a surprisingly large impact on the world around us and on the cost of electricity, unless you take a few simple precautions.
Why Washing Workwear Matters
There are two big concerns when it comes to washing uniforms at home: energy use and water consumption.
Energy Consumption
Up to 90% of a washing machine’s energy use goes into heating the water. That’s not just expensive. it’s also responsible for a big chunk of your home’s carbon emissions. In fact, heating water in UK households creates an estimated 2,200kg of CO₂ each year. So yes, laundry really adds up.
Water Waste
A typical washing cycle uses around 50 litres of water. Add harsh laundry products into the mix, and it becomes an even bigger problem, chemicals from detergents can end up polluting rivers and oceans, harming wildlife and ecosystems.
And it doesn’t stop at home. Some printing processes used in the custom workwear industry can be incredibly wasteful too. For example, traditional screen printing can use up to 60L of water per metre of fabric, and that water is usually contaminated with ink residues.
At Print Lab, we keep things cleaner. Our printing methods are designed to minimise water usage from the start, helping reduce waste before the garments even reach you.
Tips for Washing Workwear the Smarter Way
Lower the Temperature
Washing at 30°C instead of higher settings saves energy and helps protect the garment. Most modern detergents work just as effectively at lower temperatures, and cooler washes are much gentler on embroidery and prints—so your branding lasts longer.
Wash Less Often
This one’s simple: don’t wash unless you really need to. Not every item needs a full cycle after one wear. Being mindful of this can significantly cut down your energy and water use.
Use Better Products
Look out for non-toxic, biodegradable detergents and fabric softeners. These are much less harmful to the environment and still get the job done. They're also gentler on your clothing, which helps maintain the appearance and durability of your workwear.
Avoid the Tumble Dryer
Dryers are energy-hungry machines. Whenever possible, hang your workwear to dry. It’s not only better for the planet, it also helps garments last longer, especially custom-branded ones that can shrink or degrade under high heat.
Choose Efficient Machines
If you’re in the market for a new washing machine, aim for one with a high energy-efficiency rating. It’ll save you money in the long run and reduce unnecessary energy use.
Bonus: You Might Be Able to Claim Tax Back
Here’s something you might not know, if your job requires you to wear and clean a specific uniform, you could be eligible to claim back tax on your laundry expenses. In fact, you might be able to claim back several years’ worth. Want to learn more? Read out UK Workwear Tax Relief Blog Post.
Final Thoughts
Washing your workwear doesn’t have to come at a high cost, to your clothes, your wallet, or the planet. With a few small changes to your routine, you can keep your uniforms looking sharp while reducing waste and wear.
And if you have questions about how to look after your embroidered or printed garments, don’t hesitate to reach out, we’re here to help.
Contact us today for your embroidered or printed clothing on 023 9257 1900, we’re happy to help keep your team looking sharp, whatever the job.
