It often seems like it’s difficult to “be green” all of the time. A lot of us simply don’t think we have the time. It seems much easier to just buy a new this or that and put the old one on the curb, rather than take the time to recycle it; donate it; or fix it.
My dryer is acting goofy. It runs, but it doesn’t heat up. And when it runs, it either blows out the breaker – or keeps running and doesn’t stop unless I go and stop it. So, the first problem is that I have to remember to go and stop it…let’s just say that I’m not good at remembering.
Because it is fantastically below zero here in Green Bay right now, I do depend on judicious use of my dryer. I try and hang a lot of things, but with six kids – some things just need to get dry!
I recently bought a new washing machine – a super-efficient, water and electricity-saving front loader – basically my dream washer. Yes, I bought it new – but it was the floor model and because it had a ding in the front I got it for half it’s original price. Anyway, I’m not really in the market for a new dryer. But, because this one was getting giving me such a hassle – I almost just went out and bought one anyway. Especially after super Mr. Fix-It hubby realized that he didn’t have the correct stuff to fix it.
I was frustrated and ready to put an ad on Craigslist for it. But, doing some quick math, I realized that calling a repairman (yes, they still have those!) would most likely be cheaper than a new dryer. Hopefully, he’ll be able to fix it and I will have saved both my wallet and the planet an extra bit of junk!
The same is true for a pair of great clogs I have with a broken buckle. I found one of the last few cobblers in the world works out of my city. I intend to take my clogs there and for about $5 he can save my $75 clogs (the ones my sister gave me for Christmas). Totally worth it! I also found out that he fixes coat zippers – which is fabulous because in my old town, no one did, and I often had to buy new (used) coats for the kids who are always breaking their zippers.
So – one great way to be green everyday is to find ways to reuse or fix things that you are tempted to throw out. Just look at it and say, what can I do to not put this in the trash? You might be surprised! And if you really must part with it – add it to your yard sale stash or put it up for free on Craigslist or Freecycle. Someone might have the time or knowledge to fix it.
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