Is It Necessary to Wash Bedding Using Hot Water?
Washing Your Bedding Right: Let's chat about cleaning your bedding the right way. Many folks think cranking up the heat while doing laundry is the way to go. But guess what? That's a myth!
Hot water might seem like the perfect choice for a deep clean, yet it can actually cause more harm than good. So, what's the best temperature for washing your bedding?
Who is Dishin' Out the Tips?
We're gracing you with advice from the pros — Marla Mock, President of Molly Maid, a nationwide network of independent cleaners, and Kathy Cohoon, Area Representative of Two Maids and a Mop, based in Florida.
Why opt for Warm Water?
Hot water should not be your preferred choice. Why, you ask? Well, most washers reach around 130°F on the hot setting, whereas warm water ranges from 90°F to 110°F.
So, why are we talking about warm water? Here's the deal: warm water is actually the ideal temperature to remove dirt, oils, and bacteria without damaging your fabric. As Kathy Cohoon puts it, warm water "effectively removes dirt, oils, and bacteria from the fabric."
Moreover, washing in warm water is easier on the fabric too. Marla Mock shares that warm water is the most versatile choice, leaving you with "consistent cleaning results and most fabrics can tolerate those temperature ranges without issue."
Hot Water: Keep It Away From My Bedding!
Got your attention, huh? Here's why: our experts argue that washing your sheets in hot water can lead to shrinkage, color fading, and even damaging the fabric over time.
"Cleaning sheets in hot water is not recommended because it can lead to shrinkage and fading of colors in the fabric," Cohoon warns. Furthermore, hot water may make stains harder to remove due to setting them rather than eliminating them.
When to Use Cold Water?
Using cold water is a wise choice when it comes to delicate fabrics or preserving bright colors. Alternatively, going cold can save energy and reduce utility costs.
Remember, always read the fabric tags before washing to get the manufacturer's recommended temperature and washing cycle. Check for "dry-clean only" labels, so you know whether your washer can handle cleaning the bedding without causing damage. If there are no tags, use a mild detergent and soak any stains in cold water before washing at a warm temperature of around 104°F.
So there you have it! Ditch the hot water and opt for warm water to keep your bedding clean and fresh the right way. Happy washing! 🎉
- Inevitably, hot water should not be your first choice for washing bedding, according to experts from Molly Maid and Two Maids and a Mop.
- Warm water, ranging from 90°F to 110°F, is advocated by the experts because it effectively removes dirt, oils, and bacteria from the fabric without causing any damage.
- Conversely, washing sheets in hot water can lead to problems like shrinkage, color fading, and harder-to-remove stains, as warned by Kathy Cohoon from Two Maids and a Mop.
- To maintain the longevity and appearance of your bedding, consider using cold water for delicate fabrics or bright colors to save energy, reduce utility costs, and follow the manufacturer's recommended instructions on fabric tags.
