For this very reason, here in Guatemala homes that have running water may have a washing machine, but most probably don't have a dryer. It's just as well though because the cost of electricity here is extremely expensive. Rather, most people hang their laundry out on the line to dry, which can be rather tricky during the 6 months of rain! Fortunately, I work close enough to home that if need be, I can make an emergency jaunt home during lunch to rescue the clothes from a 2nd (not so clean) washing.
It takes some getting used to the starchy feeling that the laundry has after drying au natural. While flipping through a copy of August's Martha Stewart Living that my mom left behind, I came across a tip that I'm anxious to try. Martha suggests adding a 1/4 cup of white vinegar or baking soda to the wash. Before hanging the laundry (and again once dry) shake each item firmly - you should hear a sharp snap. She swears that your towels will feel fluffier and that the vinegar smell dissipates during the rinse cycle. Guess I'll find out!
If you're looking to save a couple of bucks this summer & help the environment, try the line dry method. With the sun high in the sky and a slight breeze in the air, your laundry will be dry before you know it!
