what temperature should you wash clothes

The best temperature for washing clothes depends on the type of fabric and the level of soiling. Hot water (130°F or above) is best for whites, typically dirty clothes, and diapers, as it can remove germs and heavy soil. However, hot water can shrink, fade, and damage some fabrics, so its important to read clothing labels before selecting the hot option. Warm water (90°F to 110°F) is a safe bet for most other clothing items, as it can effectively clean clothes without damaging them. Warm water is also the go-to temperature for washing colored clothes, including natural fibers like cotton (including denim) as well as synthetics. Cold water (80°F) is best for dark or bright colors that bleed or delicate fabrics, as it can prevent fading and shrinking. Cold water also saves energy, making it a good choice if you want to be eco-friendly. If the water temperature is below 60°F, no soap or detergent performs well, and washing heavily soiled articles with hot water can set stains. For heavily soiled clothes, prewash them in cool water, then wash them again in water that is 130°F or higher.