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Think 40°C is the ideal temperature for washing your clothes? It’s a common choice, but it might not be as effective as you think. Some bacteria and germs are resistant to this heat, compromising the hygiene of your clothes. So, should you change your washing habits? Here’s what laundry experts recommend.
Why does 40°C not effectively eliminate bacteria?
Many consider 40°C to be a good compromise between cleanliness and preservation of fabrics. However, this temperature does not always eliminate bacteria and organic residues.
The main problems:
- Resistant germs: Bacteria such as E. coli or salmonella, present on underwear, towels and sheets, can survive at 40°C.
- Poorly dissolved residue: At this temperature, body fat and other impurities are not completely eliminated, sometimes leaving a feeling of poorly washed laundry.
- A risk of cross-contamination: If germs are not destroyed, they can be transferred to other clothes during washing.
What is the ideal temperature for perfectly clean laundry?
60°C: the best solution for hygienic washing
To effectively eliminate bacteria, it is recommended to wash certain textiles at 60°C, in particular:
- Towels and sheets
- Underwear
- Sportswear or work clothes exposed to dirt
At this temperature, heat destroys germs and dissolves fats and body residues better.
30°C: an effective alternative with the right detergents
If you want to save energy and preserve your clothes, washing at 30°C may be enough, provided you use enzymatic detergents. These products are specially designed to be cleaned thoroughly, even at low temperatures.
Should we completely abandon washing at 40°C?
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