Should You Wash Bedding In Hot Water?

Should You Wash Bedding In Hot Water?

We spend a lot of time in our bed so when we do laundry, we want to make sure we’re washing our bedding the right way. You may think that the hotter the temperature the cleaner your sheets, duvet covers, and comforters will be.

If you usually wash your bedding in hot water, you’re going to want to rethink your laundry habits. Hot water isn’t a better choice and surprise, it won’t make them cleaner. High temperatures can also be damaging to the fabric, thus reducing its longevity.  So what’s the best temperature for washing bedding?

Meet The Experts

Why Warm Water Is Best

Hot water shouldn’t be your go-to cycle setting on your washing machine for bedding because it can be too harsh for the fabric. “Most washers reach around 130°F with hot water settings [and] warm water ranges from 90°F to 110°F,” says Marla Mock, based in Texas, who is the president of Molly Maid, a franchise of independent cleaners nationwide.

Hotter water doesn’t mean cleaner bedding. “Warm water is recommended because it helps to effectively remove dirt, oils, and bacteria from the fabric,” says Kathy Cohoon, Area Representative of Two Maids and a Mop, based in Florida.

Washing in warm water reduces harming the fabric, too. “We always recommend washing in warm water for the most consistent cleaning results, and most fabrics can tolerate those temperature ranges without issue,” says Mock.

How Hot Water Can Harm Bedding

“Cleaning sheets in hot water is not recommended because it can lead to shrinkage and fading of colors in the fabric,” says Cohoon. “High temperatures may also break down fibers over time, reducing the longevity of the bedding.”

Plus, if there are any stains on the fabric, washing them in hot water can make it more difficult for them to come out. “Hot water can set stains rather than remove them, making it less effective in achieving a thorough cleaning compared to warm or cold water,” says Cohoon.

When To Use Cold Water

There are occasions where opting for the cold water setting will be key to the longer lasting bedding.

• Consider the fabric: “If you have silk sheets or another delicate fabric, use a colder water setting to preserve quality,” says Mock. Cold water is a better option if there is a concern about shrinking or color brightness.  “Cold water is gentler on fabrics, preventing potential shrinkage or color fading,” says Cohoon. “It’s particularly recommended for delicate or brightly colored bedding to preserve their quality.”
• Consider energy and efficiency: Another reason to choose the cold water cycle is to reduce electricity and expenses “Using cold water can save energy and reduce utility costs in the laundry process,” says Cohoon. 

Why You Should Always Check Fabric Tags

• Find proper care instructions: Reading the care instructions is key to the durability of any fabric. Before washing clothing, knowing what temperatures the material can withstand is important. The same goes for bedding. Experts suggest always checking fabric tags before washing bedding at home. According to Mock, you should check the tags of any bedding to know the manufacturer’s recommended temperature and washing cycle. 
• Check for dry-clean only: Another important reason for checking tags is to make sure your washing machine can handle the job. Before purchasing bedding, check the care instructions that the material can be washed at home instead of the dry cleaner. Mock explains this is “to ensure your at-home washing machine is capable of cleaning them effectively and without damage.”
• Uh-oh, no fabric tags: “If there are no instructions for cleaning,” Mock says, “it is best to always use a mild detergent and soak any stains in cold water before washing at a warm temperature of around 104°F.”

Read the original article on Southern Living.