This Laundry Habit Could Be Increasing Your Bills – And Most People Do It Daily

Washing clothes at 40 or 90 degrees Celsius can lead to higher energy bills and damage garments, according to a British doctor and TV presenter. Dr. Xand van Tulleken advised that the 90-degree program consumes significant energy and can harm fabric fibers, though it effectively kills bacteria.

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This will destroy almost all bacteria, but it is bad for clothes and very expensive.

For thorough cleaning of items like bedding, towels, and underwear, he suggests a 60-degree Celsius wash. This temperature is high enough to eliminate many microorganisms while being less harsh on clothes than a 90-degree cycle. Dr. van Tulleken finds the 40-degree program less cost-effective, using more energy than cooler options without offering substantial hygiene benefits.

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It is sufficiently high for effective removal of certain microorganisms, while being less aggressive than the 90-degree program.

Instead, he recommends using 30 or even 20 degrees Celsius with detergents designed for low-temperature washing. This can significantly reduce energy consumption. For cooler washes, regular maintenance of the washing machine is crucial to prevent mold and odors. This includes cleaning the detergent drawer and wiping the drum with alcohol vinegar. Leaving the machine door ajar after use also helps the interior dry and air out.

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Lowering the temperature from 40 to 30 degrees Celsius can significantly reduce energy consumption.