Washing Machine Settings: If you are washing clothes in this way, stop! You are doing it all wrong; it should not be done this way at all.
The washing machine is one of the most widely used household appliances, and its washing cycles are designed to meet different cleaning needs.
Each program is designed to balance time, temperature and drum movement, ensuring maximum efficiency in removing dirt and stains without damaging fabrics.
The most common washes include the 30°C (85°F) or 40°C (105°F) cycle for delicate or colored garments and 60°C (140°F) or 90°C (195°F) cycles for durable fabrics and bedding.
Quick programs, on the other hand, are ideal for lightly soiled garments, while eco cycles are designed to reduce energy consumption by using lower temperatures and longer times.
A different method
Washing at 30°C (85°F) is a common choice for those who want to save energy and preserve delicate fabrics. However, this temperature is not enough to eliminate microbes and bacteria, especially when washing items such as underwear, sheets and towels. In fact, the UK National Health Service (NHS) recommends setting the washing machine to 60°C (140°F) to ensure proper hygiene and reduce the risks of pathogen transmission.
Although “Eco” programs on washing machines are optimal for the environment, using them with potentially contaminated garments can leave behind bacterial residues. Professor Anthony Hilton of Aston University points out that confusion on this issue can undermine confidence in household hygiene. Lower temperatures may help the environment, but they risk exposing us to disease, especially when it comes to garments used by vulnerable people.
Solutions for effective washing
For optimal hygiene, washing at 60°C (140°F) remains the most effective method, especially when combined with quality detergents. Some microbes can survive even at these temperatures, but the combined action of heat, detergents and drying cycles helps to eliminate them. For those who prefer to wash at 40°C (105°F), it is advisable to use a detergent with bleach to improve sanitizing effectiveness.
In addition to temperature, the drying and ironing phase also plays a crucial role in killing residual germs. It is especially important for people with pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart problems, who are more vulnerable to infection. For them, contracting illnesses such as the flu can exacerbate the risk of complications, making thorough washing an indispensable priority. Although it may seem like a drastic change, this is a good way to better wash linens and everything we wear on a daily basis.
