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

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**Here’s why:**
– **Synthetic Fabrics:** Fabrics such as polyester and nylon are designed to withstand certain levels of heat, but regular washing at 40°C or higher can cause the fibers to weaken. Over time, this results in pilling (those little bobbles on the surface of the fabric), fraying, and fading.
– **Natural Fibers:** Even natural fibers like cotton and wool are not immune to damage from heat. Cotton fabrics, when exposed to heat over time, can shrink, lose softness, and become less breathable. Wool can shrink and lose its elasticity, causing garments to lose their fit.

To preserve the longevity of your clothes, it’s better to wash them at lower temperatures, especially if they are delicate or made of synthetic materials. Cold water or a 30°C wash can help preserve fabric quality for much longer, allowing you to enjoy your garments without constant repairs or replacements.

### **Ineffective Cleaning at 40°C**

While 40°C has long been considered a good middle ground for cleaning, research and advances in laundry detergent formulas have shown that colder temperatures — particularly 30°C — can effectively clean clothes without the need for higher temperatures. In fact, washing at 40°C is often unnecessary for everyday loads of laundry. The detergent’s power to break down stains, dirt, and odors is not reliant on the heat of the water but on the formulation of the detergent itself.

At 40°C, the washing machine may not be performing as efficiently as it could. Clothes with stubborn stains or heavy dirt might not come out as clean as they would if washed at a higher temperature, particularly with oil-based stains (such as grease or makeup) or bacterial contamination (like sweat or body odor). Additionally, at higher temperatures, some detergents and stain removers may not fully activate, leading to ineffective cleaning.

#### **The Science Behind Low-Temperature Washing:**

– **Detergents:** Modern laundry detergents are specifically formulated to work effectively at lower temperatures. Enzymes and surfactants are used in cold-water detergents to break down stains and remove dirt efficiently, making hot washes less necessary.
– **Bacterial Removal:** Hot water has long been thought to be necessary for sanitizing laundry, but many detergents now have antibacterial properties. These can kill germs and bacteria at lower temperatures, making washing at 40°C unnecessary for hygiene purposes.

As a result, using 40°C in every wash might not be necessary for achieving clean clothes and could even be an overkill for regular laundry needs. You might be using unnecessary heat, which could be more damaging to your clothes and less effective in terms of cleaning.


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