Self Sufficiency
How To Dry Laundry The Practical Good Old Homesteading Way

Do you know how to dry laundry without using a dryer? Perhaps you do, but find it inconvenient, or just haven’t gotten around to it yet. Check out this simple guide on how to dry laundry, with great tips as you go through each step, and you will definitely give it a try sooner rather than later!
How To Dry Laundry Without Electricity
I must admit, I hate doing the laundry, but I hate musty-smelling clothes from the dryer, and a shocking electric bill, even more! While drying clothes in a dryer is as easy as throwing articles of clothing inside then taking it out once they’re dry, I say, where’s the fun in that. I have long abandoned the use of a drying machine, except when it’s raining non-stop and I have no choice. You might say I have control issues, but there is an art to drying clothes without the aid of a machine. How the clothes are arranged in the clothesline even has a purpose to it. Find out how to dry laundry as you read on.
Why Dry Laundry Without A Dryer
Besides the huge cut on your power bill, drying clothes without the use of a dryer has a lot of benefits. These are some of the most notable, which will certainly give you something to think about.
- You can save as much as $200 every year by line-drying laundry.
- Consequently, saving on your power bills helps protect the environment with energy conservation.
- You have fresh laundry without the use of chemical-laden fabric softener and deodorizers.
- The sun helps disinfect and whiten laundry naturally.
- Promotes physical health and well-being by being active outdoors.
- Avoids the harsh effect of excessive heat from the dryer on clothing.
How To Dry Laundry Without A Dryer
What You Will Need:
- Clothesline or drying rack
- Hangers
- Clothespin
- Laundry basket with pockets on the side (optional)
- Apron with large pockets (optional)
- Ladder or step stools (optional)
Step One: Do The Laundry
Separate articles from color and whites and turn the clothes inside out. Wash your clothes and other articles as usual. You can either wash using a washing machine or by hand washing. Squeeze excess water from the articles after rinsing, but avoid twisting the clothing hard so as not to stress and damage them. You may also allow excess water to drip off by placing the clothes on a rack with holes or slats.
Step Two: Sort Laundry Pieces By Size
After rinsing and while squeezing excess water, you can sort articles straight according to their sizes and weight. This will help you hang the clothes faster and more efficient. For example, sheets and towels are heavier and go to the back of the clothesline. For undies, socks, and hankies, you can put them in a neat stack pile, hold the pile up, go across the line, then hang and pin. You won’t have to stoop back down to the laundry basket for another piece with the articles sorted.
Step Three: Hang Laundry Pieces
Now, you can start hanging the clothes, and if you are able to do so, figuring out where the wind is coming or going will help. Hang thicker and wider articles to the back and smaller ones on the front so the wind can freely move through and dry the articles faster.
The ideal height for your clothesline should as tall as your height when your hands are reaching up. This way, longer laundry articles won’t touch the ground and get dirty, and you can easily reach to hang the pieces with a ladder or a step stool.
Use an apron with a large pocket to keep clothespins in so you can easily pin each item as you go along. Fold sheets in half and hang articles of clothing with the bottom up to help the clothing dry faster.
Tips For Drying Clothes Without A Dryer
Some of the worries against drying laundry on a clothesline or drying rack can easily be dealt with. Follow these tips to help you enjoy the benefits of line-drying and avoid a few setbacks.
1. Check Weather Forecast
One of the worries about drying clothes outside is that the weather can change quickly and rain down on your almost dry articles. You can always check the weather forecast via news or apps online.
2. Ideal Hanging Stuff
Personally, I like the old steel cable for my clothesline, although plastic coated and cotton are highly suggested. They last longer, clean easy and don’t sag even with heavy articles. I also prefer wooden clothespin as they are organic and environment-friendly. You can also use a hanging clothespin rack to hang smaller items like socks, undies, and hankies.
3. Pick An Ideal Site
Another worry for drying clothes out is the ire of the neighbors. If you have a close neighborhood but have a fenced backyard, then perhaps you can freely dry your clothes in the backyard. If you have a wider space and neighbors are far apart, as in a homestead, then it’s good news. Even then, you still have to consider where you set up your clothesline. Make sure there is no smoking, burning, and composting going on when drying clothes if you don’t want your laundry to smell. Set it far from falling leaves or fruit, which may stain the clothes.
4. Mind The Sun
While the sun can disinfect and make your white items whiter, it cannot be said for your colored ones. The harsh heat of the sun can potentially ruin the fabric and make the color fade. Pick an area for your colored pieces to dry where the morning sun can shine on them, while trees or a structure can shield them from the afternoon sun.
5. For Softer Articles
The extreme heat of the sun can also make thicker fabric like jeans or towels stiff and coarse. You can add half a cup of vinegar when washing the clothes to help keep the fabric soft. Keeping your clothes in a cool and dry spot after folding them properly will also eventually make the pieces softer.
6. Use Some Shade
For light and colored materials or clothing, drying them under shade or dappled shade is a good idea. The wind can easily do a good job of drying them and the shade will help protect the light material from wearing and the color from fading.
7. Iron Less
Before hanging the clothes, give each piece a good snap or shake to take out folds and creases. When hanging bedding, you may fold a blanket or sheet in half. This way, the corner top will neatly hold on to the line with a clothespin. For your clothing articles, make sure to pull the ends tight but not stretch it, so they don’t sag and result in wrinkles. With fewer wrinkles and creases, you may even skip ironing altogether.
8. You Can Hang Dry Indoors
You can dry clothes indoors on a drying rack. With a drying rack, you can save on space and organize your clothes better. Hanging clothes indoors, especially in winter, helps increase humidity levels and helps maintain a humidity level which is good for your nasal passages.
9. Sorting Laundry Articles
Sorting the articles and hanging them up according to their group will also make folding easier once they dry. I remember feeling all frustrated when I randomly hang articles because I want it done quickly. I’ve learned my lesson and now with socks, undies, shirts, and sheets nicely separated, folding and keeping them is so easy.
Follow the step-by-step guide and steps on how to dry laundry in this video:
Now you know how to dry laundry on a clothesline outdoors or a drying rack indoors. Don’t you find it practical, simple, and even nostalgic? Now your little ones get to experience hide and seek and tag among the hanging clothes just like how it was in the days of old. Learn how to dry laundry without the drying machine and experience wholesome fun!
Will you dry laundry without a machine now? Tell us your thoughts about it in the comments section below!
Up Next: Weekly Cleaning Schedule | Homesteading Tips
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This post was originally published on June 2015 and has been updated for quality and relevancy.
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Self Sufficiency
NYC Adds Nearly 4,000 People Who Never Tested Positive To Coronavirus Death Tolls

New York City added nearly 4,000 people who never tested positive for the coronavirus to its death toll Tuesday, bringing coronavirus-related deaths in the city to around 10,000 people.
The city decided to add 3,700 people to its death tolls, who they “presumed” to have died from the virus, according to a report from The New York Times. The additions increased the death toll in the U.S. by 17%, according to the Times report, and included people who were suffering from symptoms of the virus, such as intense coughing and a fever.
The report stated that Democratic New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio decided over the weekend to change the way the city is counting deaths.
“In the heat of battle, our primary focus has been on saving lives,” de Blasio press secretary Freddi Goldstein told the Times.“As soon as the issue was raised, the mayor immediately moved to release the data.”
The post New York City added nearly 4,000 people who never tested positive for the coronavirus to its death toll appeared first on Daily Caller
This Article Was Originally Posted On dailycaller.com Read the Original Article here
Self Sufficiency
How To Make Lacto-Fermented Sauerkraut In A Mason Jar
The thing about homesteading is you get to create your own ingredient right from scratch! Cheese, yogurt, butter and now sauerkraut, a delightfully sour and crunchy ingredient you can use on your meals — or consume by itself — while on a homestead, or while facing this health crisis!
This homemade sauerkraut is a great meal because it has a long shelf life. You can either make plain sauerkraut or mix it with herbs and spices. In this tutorial let us make Lacto-fermented sauerkraut that preserves all the good probiotics in a jar, good for your guts.
So how to make sauerkraut in a mason jar?
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Delicious Sauerkraut Recipe Every Homesteader Should Know
Why Make Sauerkraut?
Not only does sauerkraut spoil a long time, but it is also a meal in itself, and it is also easy to make! You don’t need to be an expert cook, all you need to do is follow these simple steps.
So let us get started. Here are the steps in making sauerkraut in a mason jar.
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cabbage or 2 1/2 lbs cabbage
- 1 tablespoon of salt
Tools Needed:
- knife
- bowl
- mason jar
- smaller jar
- rubber band
Step 1: Wash & Clean the Tools & Ingredients
Wash all the equipment and utensils you need. Wash your hands too.
You don’t want to mix your sauerkraut with bad bacteria, anything that is going to make you sick.
Next, remove the faded leaves from your cabbage. Cut off the roots and the parts that don’t seem fresh.
Step 2: Cut the Cabbage Into Quarters & Slice Into Strips
Cut your cabbage into quarters and remove the core. Then, slice it into strips.
Step 3: Place in a Bowl & Sprinkle With Salt
Put the stripped cabbage into a bowl. Sprinkle the cabbage with 1 tablespoon of salt.
TIP: Use canning salt or sea salt. Iodized salt will make it taste different and may not ferment the cabbage.
RELATED: Homemade Yogurt Recipe
Step 4: Massage the Cabbage
Massage the cabbage for five minutes or more to get the juice out.
TIP: You’ll know it’s ready when you see a bit of juice at the bottom of the bowl and will look similar to coleslaw.
Step 5: Press Cabbage Into the Mason Jar
Add the cabbage to the mason jar gradually. Press it in hard to allow the juice to come out. Do this every time you add about a handful of cabbage.
IMPORTANT: Food should be covered by the liquid to promote fermentation. Add any excess liquid from the bowl to the jar.
Step 6: Press a Smaller Jar Into the Mason Jar
You want to squeeze every ounce of that juice from the cabbage. To do this place the mason jar in a bowl and get a smaller jar.
Fill it with water or marble to make it heavy. Press it into the bigger mason jar. Allow any juices to rise to the surface.
Step 7: Cover the Jars With Cloth & Tie With Rubber Band
Leave the small jar on. To keep your jars clean from annoying insects and irritating debris, cover your jars with a clean cloth. Then, use a rubber band to tie the cloth and the jars together, putting them in place.
Step 8: Set Aside & Check Daily
Set it aside in a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight. Check the water level daily. It should always be above the cabbage.
Step 9: Taste Your Sauerkraut & Keep at Cool Temperatures
After about five days, you can taste your sauerkraut. If the taste is to your liking, tightly cover it with the lid and store in the fridge or cellar.
NOTE: If after five days it’s still not your desired taste, leave it for a few more days. This will allow the fermentation process to continue.
You can now enjoy your sauerkraut in a mason jar. Enjoy its goodness! You can use it as a side dish or mix it with your favorite sandwich.
Things to Remember in Making Sauerkraut
- Store away from direct sunlight and drafts.
- Colder weather will make the process longer. Spring is the best time to make them since the warmth helps activate the fermentation.
- Always make sure that the cabbage is below the water level during the entire fermentation process.
- If the water level decreases during the fermentation process, you can make a brine and add it.
Let us watch this video from Kristina Seleshanko on how to make delicious Lacto-fermented sauerkraut in a mason jar!
So there you have it! Making Lacto-fermented sauerkraut in a mason jar is as easy as slicing the cabbage into strips. Remember that as long it remains unopened, your sauerkraut can last for months. Best of all, you can partner this sauerkraut in many recipes.
What do you think of this homemade recipe? Share your best sauerkraut recipe in the comments section below!
Fellow homesteaders, do you want to help others learn from your journey by becoming one of our original contributors? Write for us!
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Self Sufficiency
9 SPRING VEGETABLES FOR YOUR GARDEN
Having plants in the house will bring peace to people. Having a little garden with vegetables is even better! You can grow these vegetables in your backyard garden easily as well!
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In this article:
Growing veggies in your garden will give you an opportunity to understand what you eat and value it more. Early spring is when most vegetables are being planted. Keep reading to learn about 9 spring vegetables that anyone can grow in their garden!
Tomato
Tomato is the most popular garden vegetable in the States! There are different varieties to choose from. Tomatoes need to be planted in early spring because they won’t survive a frost.
Because tomatoes are consumed daily, try adding them to your garden! They’re not difficult to grow either.
Eggplant
Eggplants are known to have low-calorie, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Plus, they are delicious! So why not plant them in your garden?
Eggplants shouldn’t be planted too early because they won’t be able to survive a frost. So you could consult an expert in your area before you plant your eggplants.
Beets
Beets are known to be a superfood for its various health benefits. They’re easier to grow in the garden, usually around late March or early April.
If the weather is always cool, beets will keep getting bigger and bigger. Once the weather starts to warm up, you’ll need to harvest them, or they’ll go to waste.
Spinach
Spinach is a delicious early spring veggie, and it’s also very beneficial for health. And it’s not difficult to grow spinach in your garden!
Spinach needs cold weather to grow. Getting spinach to grow is easy, but keeping it growing will require some extra care.
Pea
Peas are usually planted in late April. Peas will die in freezing temperatures, but they also won’t survive the heat either. So make sure you plant your peas in early spring.
Peas are widely used in many different ways, and there are different types of peas. The soil you’ll be planting your peas should be suitable for them, so make sure you ask while buying seeds.
Carrot
There are different types of carrots, but regardless of their size and color, it’s a fact that carrots are both delicious and rich in vitamins.
They’re root vegetables, so with proper sun and watering, they can be picked up as baby carrots as well.
Radish
A radish is an excellent option for beginners because it doesn’t require too much care. Radish is easy to harvest.
Radish grows fast, so it’s better to keep an eye on it after a few weeks. Radish usually is grown pest-free, but there’s always the chance of unwanted guests, so watch out for worms. Radish can be eaten raw or can be added to garnish recipes.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower isn’t the easiest vegetable to grow at home, but it is very popular.
Cauliflower grows better in colder weather, so before you plant it, consider the climate of your garden. Cauliflower can be eaten raw or cooked, and it is known to be very beneficial for health.
Asparagus
Freshly picked, tender asparagus is very delicious!
Asparagus plants get more productive with each harvest, and mature asparagus harvest can last for months! Make sure you plant them at the correct time, or else they might go to waste.
All the vegetables listed above are great for your healthy diet, and it’s fun to watch them grow. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to grow your own veggies and eat healthy this spring!
So tell us which veggies will you be growing this spring? Tell us in the comments section!
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