Laundry on the cheap

For many, doing laundry can be an expensive chore because of the high costs of electricity, gas and water and for some, a trip to the laundromat. In the last few years, I have been able to cut back on such spending. I haven't purchased laundry detergent in almost three years because I use Oxi-Clean. With a coupon, I purchased a large 15 lbs. box at Costco which cost about $12 or so. I bought a 69c bar of Zote laundry soap which is used to remove deep stains. Since the Oxi-Clean works miracles, I use about a half scoop in my front loading machine. If I have extra dirty and smelly clothing, I shave off a little Zote and add to the load. This combination makes washing a breeze. With the Zote, it is nearly biodegradable which means it breaks down faster than chemically laden detergents.
It is sunny here quite often so I usually do laundry when it is warm so that I can hang my clothing out to dry. I invested $40 in a Drying Tree which is wide enough to hold a load. The longest I have ever waited was two hours for everything to dry. Once dried, I iron only what is needed and fold the rest. Sometimes I have to use the dryer to soften certain fabrics but that happens a few times a year.
Since the city where I live is experiencing a shortage in water, I have hooked up a gray watering system which allows for the laundry run off to be collected in a rain barrel. It holds up to 60 gallons which is equivalent to two loads of laundry. I use the gray water to water the plants, ground cover and vegetables in the garden. I am not only recycling the water but keeping unwanted pesky insects from eating my foods.
I do not know the average cost of doing a load of laundry may run a household but I am sure by example, I am able to cut it by half if not by two thirds.
I will add that Oxy-clean is a true miracle. It removes coffee and tea stains from my ceramic mugs, works well for general cleaning of bathrooms, toilets, kitchens and floors.