The temperature at which you should wash your clothes depends on the type of fabric and the color of the clothes. Here are some general guidelines based on the search results:
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Hot water (130°F or above): Use hot water for whites, typically dirty clothes, and diapers. Hot water is best to remove germs and heavy soil. However, hot water can shrink, fade, and damage some fabrics, so be sure to read your clothing labels before selecting the hot option.
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Warm water (90°F): Use warm water for man-made fibers, knits, and jeans. Most of your clothes can be washed in warm water. It offers good cleaning without significant fading or shrinking.
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Cold water (80°F): Use cold water for dark or bright colors that bleed or delicate fabrics. Cold water also saves energy, so it is a good choice if you want to be eco-friendly. If you choose cold water, you may need to pre-treat or pre-soak your clothes if your laundry items are heavily soiled.
Its important to note that the lower the temperature of the water, the more detergent you need. If the temperature of the water is below 60°F, no soap or detergent performs well. But don’t make the water too hot. 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. The rinse water can always be cold without any harmful effects on the wash load.
Before washing your clothes, always read the label on your clothing to determine the best temperature for washing. The label will provide instructions on the maximum temperature that the fabric can withstand without damage. Additionally, its important to note that the colder the water, the gentler it is on clothes, and the less likely it is to cause fading, shrinking, or discoloration.