The best temperature to wash colored clothes depends on the type of fabric and the care label instructions. As a general rule, colored clothing, particularly bright and bold colors, should be washed in cold water (80°F) . Cold water helps prevent colors from fading and bleeding, and it also saves energy, making it an eco-friendly choice. However, if the care label instructions indicate a different temperature, its important to follow them to avoid damaging the fabric. For example, some man-made fibers, knits, and jeans can be washed in warm water (90°F) without significant fading or shrinking. On the other hand, whites, typically dirty clothes, and diapers should be washed in hot water (130°F or above) to remove germs and heavy soil. However, hot water can shrink, fade, and damage some fabrics, so it's important to read the clothing labels before selecting the hot option.