Machine washing at 40° is a terrible idea: here’s why you should stop this habit

At what temperature should sheets be washed?

When it comes to washing sheets, the appropriate temperature depends on some important factors, namely:
The material of the sheets: cotton sheets can be washed at higher temperatures, up to 60°C, while more delicate materials such as silk they should be washed at lower temperatures.

Washing frequency: a washing temperature of 40°C is recommended for a weekly washing frequency. This helps maintain the quality of the sheets during washes. However, if you opt for a machine wash every two weeks, the degree of soiling of the sheets and the presence of microbes may require a temperature between 60°C and 90°C, especially for white sheets.

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What temperature causes a garment to shrink?

In most cases garments tend to shrink at temperatures above 60°C, but this can vary depending on the fabric and type of fibers used to make them. To ensure you preserve your garments, follow the washing and care instructions on the garment’s label. These may recommend specific washing temperatures and drying methods to avoid shrinkage.

The benefits of lowering the temperature of your washing machine may seem minimal to you, but compared to the number of washes you do per year, the energy and money savings are immediately noticeable, in addition to the satisfaction you will have in doing a good deed for the planet.

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