Green and Gorgeous Remodeling: Laundry Rooms

Green and Gorgeous Laundry Machines

Most laundry energy- and water-saving practices are common sense: don't use hot water; presoak dirty garments; use only as much water as you need. For true greenwashing, however, you're going to need more than your mother's advice.

Consider investing in one of the latest clean dream machines from Frigidaire, Bosch, LG, GE, KitchenAid or Kenmore. Not only will your clothes stay fresh and clean, but you'll save a load of money, too.

Frigidaire Front-Loading Washer and Dryer

Take a load off with Frigidaire's Front Loading Washer and Dryer sets. Unlike a top-load washer, which fills with water and uses an agitator to circulate the clothes, a front-loader spins on a horizontal axis, using a third less water, a third less heat energy and a third less detergent. Visit frigidaire.com for the full line.

KitchenAid Pro Line Washer and Dryer

KitchenAid's Pro Line Washing Machines and Dryers are so sleek, small and silent you can put them in any room in the house. The washers are Energy Star certified, and boast a water level sensor. With not too much or too little, but just the right amount, you can expect significant energy and water savings. Visit kitchenaid.com for more information.

LG SteamWasher with 'Allergiene' Cycle

This stylish, Energy Star-rated SteamWasher from LG includes an 'Allergiene' cycle, which is designed to reduce allergens, such as dust mites and pet dander, on fabrics by more than 95%. It is the first washing machine to be certified 'asthma & allergy friendly' by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA).

LG is known for a wide range of energy efficient products. Many are available at Sears and other retailers, or check lge.com for more details.

GE Energy Star Washer

Don't let your energy use spin out of control. Instead, invest in one of GE's many Energy Star-certified washers.

With some models exceeding Energy Star certification by a whopping 60 percent, you'll keep energy use and bills low. For more on GE's Energy Star-certified products, visit geappliances.com.

Kenmore Elite HE5t

High style meets high efficiency with Kenmore's Elite HE5t washer and dryer set. This dream-team duo saves 71 percent water and energy, far outperforming even the harshest Energy Star requirements. Lowe's carries a wide range of Kenmore Elite colors. To learn more, visit kenmore.com.

Bosch Nexxt Washing Machine and Dryer

Bosch's Nexxt Washing Machine offers a laundry list of eco-positives. For one thing it's Energy Star certified and will reduce your energy consumption by 72 percent. Second, it'll reduce your water usage up to 76 percent.

Third, the Bosch washer spins your clothes so fast that they practically dry before you move them to the dryer. That means you'll need less energy. For more on the Bosch Nexxt Washing Machine and Dryer, visit boschappliances.com.