In the midst of the ongoing cost of living crisis, every penny counts - which is why when Money Saving Expert founder Martin Lewis shared his viral 11p washing machine trick, households across the UK took notice. But does this simple energy-saving hack actually deliver on its promise?
The 11p Promise That Went Viral
Martin Lewis's advice, shared during an appearance on ITV's Good Morning Britain, suggested that households could save approximately 11p per wash by making one simple change to their laundry routine. The tip quickly spread across social media, with thousands sharing the potential money-saving solution.
Putting the Theory to the Test
We decided to conduct a real-world experiment to verify whether this washing machine hack could genuinely reduce energy consumption and lower bills. The premise is surprisingly simple: instead of running full washing cycles at higher temperatures, Lewis recommended switching to shorter, cooler washes.
The Science Behind the Savings
"Heating the water is what costs the money," Lewis explained during his television segment. "If you can wash on 30 degrees rather than 40 degrees, you're saving money. If you can wash on 20 degrees rather than 30 degrees, you're saving money."
Modern washing detergents are specifically designed to work effectively at lower temperatures, making this switch both economically and environmentally sensible.
Real-World Results: Does It Work?
After testing the method across multiple wash cycles and comparing energy usage, our findings revealed:
- Substantial reduction in energy consumption when switching from 40°C to 30°C cycles
- Even greater savings when opting for 20°C washes for appropriate clothing
- Minimal difference in cleaning effectiveness for everyday items
- Potential for annual savings that could exceed £50 for average households
Beyond the 11p: Additional Washing Machine Savings
While the 11p per wash saving provides immediate benefits, Lewis highlighted several complementary strategies to maximise your laundry savings:
- Wait for full loads: Running fewer, fuller cycles can significantly reduce your annual energy consumption
- Reduce detergent use: Modern machines and detergents often work better with smaller amounts
- Maintain your machine: Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure optimal efficiency
- Consider time-of-use tariffs: If you're on a smart tariff, washing during off-peak hours can yield additional savings
Expert Verification
Energy experts have confirmed the validity of Lewis's advice. "Heating water accounts for approximately 90% of the energy used in washing machines," explained Dr Sarah Wilkinson, an energy efficiency specialist. "Reducing wash temperature is one of the most effective ways to cut energy consumption without compromising cleanliness."
The Bigger Picture: Small Changes, Big Impact
While 11p per wash might seem insignificant, the cumulative effect across millions of households could have a substantial impact on both personal finances and national energy consumption. With the average household running approximately 270 wash cycles annually, the potential savings become much more meaningful.
As Martin Lewis himself noted during the segment, "It's not going to make you rich, but if you're doing multiple washes a week, that's multiple 11ps. And in the cost of living crisis, every 11p helps."
In an era where every saving counts, this simple washing machine adjustment proves that sometimes the most effective financial advice doesn't require major lifestyle changes - just small, smart adjustments to daily routines.
