If you’re going to spend money on clothes — no matter how much exactly — you want them to last as long as possible. While the quality of the fabric indicates its staying power, it’s also crucial that you care for your clothes the right way. All clothing items shouldn’t be treated equally: For example, bright and dark colors, and delicate fabrics require more specialized care than whites, cottons, and other easy-to-care-for fabrics.
A recent study by the University of Leeds and Procter & Gamble found that washing clothes on the coldest, shortest cycle in the washing machine makes them last longer. The study compared the color loss, dye staining, and microfiber loss of dozens of t-shirts from common brands like Gildan, Russell, and Hanes when they were washed in 40°C water (104°F a.k.a. the warm water setting) for 85 minutes and 25°C water (77°F a.k.a. the cold wash setting) for 30 minutes.
The results: “Significantly greater colour loss and greater colour transfer were observed for a 40 °C, 85 minute wash cycle compared to a cold-quick cycle. Microfibre release was significantly greater for the 40 °C, 85 minute cycle in comparison with the cold-quick cycle, and this effect continued with further washes.” In other words, a colder, shorter wash cycle was found to reduce any color loss, dye stains, or microfiber loss.
But that’s not to say it’s always the best option. “Cold water is safest overall, especially for bright and dark colors, and delicate fabrics because it won’t cause fading or fiber damage. Just be sure to use a good detergent that’s formulated to clean well in cold water, like Good Housekeeping Seal star, Tide,“ Carolyn Forte, Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, explains. “As an aside, cold water also saves energy, no matter what fabric you are washing.”
Generally speaking, cold wash cycles are best for delicates, colored, and normally soiled clothing; warm water is best for more soiled clothing and whites; and hot water is best for very soiled clothing or for loads, like underwear and towels, where you want to remove germs and allergens. Think of it this way: If you’re trying to get rid of stains or want to kill germs, then “bump up the temperature.”
On most washing machines, the delicate cycle, which uses gentler wash action and slower spin speed, is shorter than the normal, permanent press/casual, or heavy duty cycles, so it’s a safe bet if you’re washing any delicate or colored items. The normal cycle is a bit more aggressive, so it’s ideal for sturdy fabrics, like denim, bedding, towels, and most clothing. As the name implies, the heavy duty cycle should be reserved for heavily soiled items since it’s longer and uses a high-speed spin.
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