National Hang Out Day
National Hanging Out Day is a unique annual observance that encourages people to embrace the eco-friendly practice of air-drying laundry on clotheslines or drying racks. This day highlights the environmental and financial benefits of reducing reliance on energy-intensive electric or gas dryers.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: April 19
- Tagged as: Environmental Awareness, Energy Conservation, Sustainability
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalHangingOutDay
- When was it founded?: 1995
- Who founded it?: Alexander Lee, through Project Laundry List
History of National Hanging Out Day
National Hanging Out Day was established in 1995 by Project Laundry List, a New Hampshire-based environmental group led by Alexander Lee. The initiative was inspired by Helen Caldicott’s speech advocating for air-drying laundry and cold-water washing. The day gained momentum when Senator Dick McCormack introduced the “Right to Dry” bill in Vermont, further promoting the cause. Since then, Project Laundry List has collaborated with various organizations to encourage communities to adopt sustainable laundry practices.
Timeline
- 1800: The first hand-cranked clothes dryer is invented.
- 1853: Clothespins are patented, revolutionizing laundry drying.
- 1937: The first electric clothes dryer is invented by Henry W. Altorfer.
- 1995: National Hanging Out Day is founded by Project Laundry List.
- 1998: Vermont introduces the “Right to Dry” bill, supporting outdoor drying practices.
- 2009: Vermont passes the “Right to Dry” law, protecting the use of clotheslines.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 19 | Saturday |
| 2026 | April 19 | Sunday |
| 2027 | April 19 | Monday |
| 2028 | April 18 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | April 18 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | April 18 | Thursday |
Observed
National Hanging Out Day is observed by hanging laundry outdoors to dry, reducing energy consumption and promoting sustainability. Many participants share photos of their clotheslines on social media using the hashtag #NationalHangingOutDay. The day also serves as an opportunity to educate communities about energy conservation and environmental preservation.
Fun Facts About National Hanging Out Day
- Clothes dryers account for up to 10% of residential energy consumption.
- Air-drying clothes can save households over $100 annually on electricity bills.
- Sunlight naturally disinfects and bleaches fabrics while imparting a fresh scent.
- Vermont’s “Right to Dry” law protects residents’ ability to use clotheslines despite local restrictions.
Quiz
- Who founded National Hanging Out Day?
- What year was the first electric clothes dryer invented?
- Which state passed the “Right to Dry” law in 2009?
Answers:
- Alexander Lee
- 1937
- Vermont
FAQs
- What is National Hanging Out Day?
It’s a day dedicated to promoting air-drying laundry as an environmentally friendly alternative to electric dryers. - Why hang clothes outside?
It saves energy, reduces carbon footprints, and enhances the freshness of clothing. - Can you hang clothes out in winter?
Yes, as long as temperatures are not low enough for wet clothes to freeze. - Does sunlight kill bacteria on clothes?
Yes, sunlight acts as a natural disinfectant and bleach for fabrics.
Related
- Earth Day (April 22)
- National Clean Out Your Medicine Cabinet Day (April 19)
- Energy Efficiency Day
- World Environment Day (June 5)
