What is the best washing temperature to get clean, shiny clothes? This is a question we often ask ourselves before we put our clothes in the drum of our washing machine. But to the same question, some people have a preconceived answer: washing at high temperatures is the key to removing stains and odors. This would then justify the introduction of a washing temperature between 140° and more. In reality, this is not always a very good idea, both for maintaining the quality of the clothes and for energy consumption. Let’s take a closer look at the question.
What temperature for what kind of clothes? Washing at 140°: what is the risk?
Do you want to reduce your water and electricity bills or adopt a more environmentally friendly lifestyle? You can make the most of your household appliances and this can be the start of big savings. Maybe you don’t know this? But the washing machine in particular can consume a lot of energy if not used properly, so it is necessary to choose the right program according to your actual needs. For each wash cycle, you need to take into account the material of the fabric or the degree of soiling of the laundry to determine the correct washing temperature, and most importantly, do not have a default setting for everything. Let’s take a look at the frequently asked questions about choosing a wash program depending on the type of laundry.
When should you wash clothes at 140 °F or more?
In order to eliminate any bacteria and germs that may be present on the laundry, it may be useful to wash it at a high temperature. This method also allows for thorough cleaning and the elimination of stubborn odors. It is especially recommended for bed linen and bedding, as these items come into close contact with the body and can spread dust mites.
At what temperature should towels and bed linen be washed to remove bacteria?
As already mentioned, washing certain types of laundry, usually bed linen, may require a higher temperature of 60 or even 90 degrees Celsius. Among them we can find bath towels, bed linen, dish towels, underwear or baby diapers and bibs. This program is ideal for killing viruses and removing stains from heavily soiled items. But beware, this can significantly increase your electricity bill. Therefore, it is recommended to limit washing at high temperature only to the laundry that really needs it and use a suitable detergent to achieve a good result.
Why washing at 140 ° is not always the best option? Does cotton shrink at 140 degrees Fahrenheit?
Yes, cotton tends to shrink when washed at high temperatures, much more so at 194 °F than at 140 °F, of course. To avoid this risk, it is recommended to wash cotton laundry at a temperature below 140 °F if possible. However, if you have heavily soiled clothes, washing at 140°F may be useful to effectively remove stubborn stains. However, care should be taken with delicate fabrics such as wool and cotton, as they can shrink easily, unlike synthetic clothing.
Should everyday clothes be washed at 104 degrees?
The 104°F program is considered the universal temperature for washing all types of laundry, but it’s also not the best choice when it comes to washing everyday clothes, which are usually lightly soiled. And for good reason, other energy-saving programs on most washing machines are just as effective at low temperatures. This is the case with washing at 86°F, which is more cost-effective and ecological. Moreover, many detergents are already active at 68°F, so washing at 86°F is enough to get clean and bright clothes, while saving your wallet.
At what temperature should you wash white clothes?
You want to wash white clothes and find the right temperature? It must be admitted that this is quite a complex task, which must ensure both their cleanliness and shine, while avoiding damage to the fabrics or their discoloration. In general, white clothes must be washed in hot or lukewarm water after being separated from the fabric-colored clothes. While some fabrics can withstand washing at high temperatures, others, such as linen, are at risk of shrinkage or fiber damage if washed above 104°F. When in doubt, and this advice applies to all your laundry, read the garment care label and follow the specific instructions for water temperature and recommended wash cycle. But everywhere,
What is the 30-minute quick wash temperature?
For those who are in a hurry: Most washing machines have a short cycle that allows you to wash your clothes in a short time. The wash temperature of this program, which generally does not exceed 104°F, is recommended for lightly soiled clothes and for a laundry load that is below the maximum capacity of the machine. How about cold wash?
Have you ever thought about washing your clothes with cold water? This option is feasible for most garments and offers many benefits. For more details, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions on the label. According to experts quoted in a New York Times article, washing clothes in cold water is important to preserve our clothes and protect the environment. Frequent use of the washing machine can alter the fabric and cause it to fade or shrink. Tumble dryers are also very energy intensive and, when combined with machine washing, can have a significant impact on the environment. According to Roland Geyer, a professor specializing in life cycle analysis at the University of California, laundry can have similar environmental impacts as clothing manufacturing. These include the consumption of water, energy, the production of greenhouse gases and the release of microfibers into bodies of water. Therefore, you will extend the life of your clothes, save money and protect the environment by limiting the washing of clothes to the necessary time and using cold water whenever possible.
As we have just seen, several washing programs allow you to wash your clothes perfectly, without affecting their quality and causing excessive energy consumption. However, for special cases such as household laundry, the 140°F program may be necessary. And for heavily soiled clothes, you should first check the information on the label to make sure that they will survive washing at high temperatures without damage.
