What Is The Correct Temperature to Wash Towels?
Washing cotton towels is an essential part of maintaining hygiene and ensuring their longevity. However, choosing the right water temperature for washing cotton towels can be confusing.
DZEE Home is here to discuss the correct temperature to wash our Belem cotton towels, considering factors such as fabric type, cleanliness, and personal preferences.
Understanding The Importance of Washing Towels
There are many rules when it comes to maintaining towels. To have the best towels in your home, you need to know the best ways to keep your towels in their best condition. Washing towels takes a level of attention and care as the wrong methods can result in long-term damage.
Factors such as replacement, washing, drying, and storing towels need to be taken care of in a different manner which would amplify your experience and the aesthetics of your home. There are a number of things to look out for when maintaining your towels:
- Replacement:
Towels need to be replaced every two to five years to ensure that you get the best treatment for your showering experience. New towels have to be ordered from a reliable supplier, such as Belem, in order to avoid the buildup of toxins, bacteria, and germs.
- Washing:
Washing your cotton towels is a must. Constant and regular washing of your towels will prove better for your health and ensure that you remain clean and fresh. Washing ensures that you get cleaner towels and avoid any harmful reactions such as redness or rashes.
- Drying:
Drying is crucial during the maintenance process as it alleviates germs and bacteria through heat and air. Wet towels can produce bad odor and mold if not dried properly, which will damage the texture and quality of your towels. There is a specific method that helps towels dry the best, and it depends on the type of towel there is.
Read: Can You Wash Towels With Sheets? Exploring Laundry Best Practices
Different Temperatures & What They Are Good for
- Hot Water
Hot water, typically between 130°F (54°C) and 140°F (60°C), is effective at killing bacteria, removing tough stains, and disinfecting our cotton towels. It is particularly recommended for white cotton towels and heavily soiled ones. Hot water helps to break down oils, remove residues, and ensure a thorough cleaning process. However, be cautious when using hot water with colored or delicate cotton towels, as it may cause color fading or damage to the fabric fibers.
- Warm Water
Warm water, around 90°F (32°C) to 110°F (43°C), strikes a balance between effective cleaning and energy efficiency for cotton towels. It is suitable for most cotton towel types, including colored towels and moderately soiled ones. Warm water helps to remove dirt and grime while minimizing the risk of color fading or shrinking. Using a warm water setting can be a reliable option for maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of your Belem cotton towels.
- Cold Water
Cold water, typically below 80°F (27°C), is suitable for delicate cotton towels. It is particularly recommended for towels made from polycotton blends. Cold water prevents shrinkage, color bleeding, and damage to sensitive cotton fibers. However, it's important to note that cold water may not be as effective at removing heavy stains or killing bacteria. If hygiene is a concern, consider using a suitable detergent or adding a disinfectant to the wash cycle to ensure cleanliness.
TIP: DZEE Home recommends that you use warm water to balance the act between cleaning and refreshing.
Quick Tips for Washing Cotton Towels
- Separate white cotton towels from colored ones to prevent color bleeding and potential damage to the fabric.
- Avoid overloading the washing machine to ensure thorough cleaning and proper agitation of the cotton towels.
- Use a mild detergent or use non-chlorine bleach specifically formulated for cotton fabrics to prevent any potential damage or fading of colors.
- Consider adding vinegar or baking soda to the wash cycle to remove odors and maintain the softness of your Belem Cotton Towels.
- Follow the care instructions provided by us for specific guidance on water temperature and other washing recommendations.
Follow Our Care Instructions for Optimal Performance!
When it comes to washing cotton towels, selecting the right water temperature is crucial to maintain their cleanliness and longevity. Hot water is ideal for white cotton towels and heavy soiling, as it effectively kills bacteria and removes tough stains. Warm water provides a versatile and energy-efficient option for most cotton towel types and moderate soiling. Cold water is gentle on delicate cotton towels, preventing shrinkage and color fading, but may not effectively remove heavy stains or kill bacteria.
Is it best to Wash Towels in Hot Water?
The usual advice for the best way of washing towels is to use hot water. This is perhaps the reason why, and what I am going share you below.
Temperature recommendation:
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends that towels be washed at 130°F (54°C) or above to ensure they are clean and disinfected as much as possible in cold water laundering.
Reasoning:
Hot water works better for:
Bacteria and other small organisms also dies
Removing oils and body soil
Activating detergents in order to clean your clothes better.
Method:
a) Sort towels by color
b) Load the washing machine, avoiding overfilling
c) Add an appropriate amount of detergent
d) Set the water temperature to hot
e) Use a normal or heavy-duty cycle
f) Add white vinegar to the fabric softener compartment (optional, for softness and odor removal)
g) Dry thoroughly on high heat
Expert opinion:
Laundry expert Mary Marlowe Leverette states: "For the best results, wash your towels in hot water. It's the best way to remove oils and bacteria that build up over time."
Energy efficiency consideration:
While hot water is most effective, modern detergents can work well in warm water too. If energy saving is a priority, warm water (90°F/32°C) can be a compromise.
Always refer to the care labels and instructions provided by DZEE Home for specific guidance on water temperature and other washing recommendations. By following these tips and considering factors such as fabric type, cleanliness, and personal preferences, you can ensure that your cotton towels remain clean, fresh, and long-lasting for your everyday use. To place an order, visit our website or call on +1 866 500 3933 or contact us.