Washing your laundry at 30°C: is it effective and economical?
80% of a washing machine's electricity is used to heat the water. Washing cold changes everything.
Recommended Materials
- Effective cold laundry
- Stain remover (if necessary)
Steps to follow
Step 1
The shocking figure: 80% of the electricity consumed by a washing machine is used solely to HEAT the water. The running engine consumes almost nothing. Washing cold (20°C) or at 30°C is therefore the number 1 savings lever.
Step 2
Efficiency: Modern detergents contain gluttonous enzymes which are active from 20°C. For everyday laundry (t-shirts worn once, pants, sweaters), washing at 30°C is just as effective as 40°C. In addition, it damages the fibers and colors less (black remains black).
Step 3
When to heat? : Reserve washing at 60°C for household linen (sheets, towels, tea towels) and underwear, in order to kill bacteria and mites. 90°C is almost useless anymore, except for cleaning the machine once a month.
Step 4
The ECO program: Contrary to popular belief, the Eco program lasts longer (3 hours or 4 hours) but consumes LESS. For what ? Because it lets the laundry soak longer in cooler water. It's like dishes: if you leave it to soak, no need for hard scrubbing or boiling water.
Step 5
The Rapide program: It’s the WORST. To wash in 30 minutes, the machine must heat the water very quickly and very hard. This is the most energy-consuming program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stubborn stains ?
If the laundry is really dirty (mud, grease, blood), rub the stain with Marseille soap or apply stain remover BEFORE putting it in the machine. Temperature alone is not always enough.
Precautions
- Run a cycle at 90°C once a month (empty or cloths) to clean the machine.
- Do not overdose on detergent.
