For years, my washing machine has been a steadfast companion in my household, especially with a lively dog around. Like many, I relied heavily on the automatic programs, typically washing my laundry at 30 to 40 degrees Celsius. It wasn’t until a recent conversation with a technician that I realized how much I—and likely others—were missing out on a key feature that keeps both our clothes and machines in top shape.
Almost Nobody Knows How to Use Their Washing Machine, Myself the First
In my daily routine, the washing machine is indispensable. However, my reliance on a couple of basic settings is far from unique. During my career as a tech journalist, I’ve chatted with numerous appliance manufacturers, and the consensus is clear: most people barely scratch the surface of their washing machine’s capabilities. Like me, many stick to one or two familiar programs, unaware of the benefits that other settings can offer.
A technician recently pointed out that this limited usage isn’t just about laundry quality—it also affects the internal health of the machine. By consistently avoiding higher temperatures, the washing machine doesn’t get the chance to self-clean effectively. This oversight leads to the buildup of detergent residues, fabric softeners, and dirt within the drum, potentially shortening the appliance’s lifespan.
The Importance of High Temperatures
Many of us opt for lower temperatures to save energy and protect our clothes from wear and tear. I always thought that unless there were stubborn stains, increasing the temperature would only harm my garments. I reserved high-temperature washes for those special occasions when dealing with tough grease or mud stains. However, the technician enlightened me that washing solely at low temperatures doesn’t ensure complete germ and bacteria elimination.
Using higher temperatures, such as 60 or 90 degrees Celsius, is significantly more effective in not only removing tough stains but also in disinfecting laundry. Trusted organizations like the Consumer Organization (OCU) emphasize that high-temperature washes are crucial for items like bed linens, towels, or clothing of someone who’s ill, as they effectively kill bacteria, dust mites, and other microorganisms that lower temperatures can’t eliminate.
Moreover, the technician explained that regularly using higher temperatures aids in cleaning the machine’s interior. The heat is essential for removing fabric softener and detergent residues, as well as dirt deposits left by the laundry. He recommended periodically running the machine’s drum cleaning program, a feature many washers have but few users utilize, despite its reminders at the start of each cycle.
Excessive Electricity Consumption? Yes, But…
Understandably, there’s a common concern about the energy consumption of high-temperature washes. The OCU notes that washing at 30 degrees or lower can save up to 60% of energy. However, this comes at the cost of cleaning efficiency and hygiene. The technician clarified that the perceived high energy use of 60 or 90-degree washes isn’t as daunting as it seems. The water only reaches these elevated temperatures during a specific phase of the cycle, optimizing the use of detergents and fabric softeners for a deeper clean.
Additionally, using high-temperature cycles occasionally can prevent the need for the machine’s 90-degree drum cleaning program, which is notably energy-intensive. By integrating higher temperature washes into your routine judiciously, you maintain both your laundry and your washing machine without a significant spike in energy usage.
In conclusion, a simple conversation with a technician revealed that embracing the full range of my washing machine’s features could enhance both my laundry’s cleanliness and the machine’s longevity. By balancing energy savings with occasional high-temperature washes, it’s possible to achieve a more hygienic and efficient laundry routine.