Cleaning expert shares ‘ideal’ temperature to wash bedding and save money

A cleaning expert has weighed in on the debate around washing temperatures for bedding – it turns out you can run a far lower temperature than you think

As the cost of living soars, millions of people across the country are trying to save as much money as they can on household bills. Some of the major energy-guzzling culprits in your home include appliances like your oven, washing machine and tumble dryer, but these are household necessities that we all rely on.

Thankfully, cleaning experts have been on hand to suggest ways to save money while tackling the washing, and putting your sheets in on a lower temperature could help – as long as you have the right detergent.

Many of us wash our bedsheets on a higher temperature than we would our clothes, in order to kill bacteria and keep them squeaky clean. If you’re someone who washes your bedding on 60 degrees, you might be pleased to know that lower temperatures can still get the job done.

Fans of Mrs Hinch – real name Sophie Hincliffe – took to Facebook to offer advice for those who are unsure on which temperature is best.

After the discussion circulated on social media, The Express spoke to two cleaning experts to decipher how much you can lower the heat while still maintaining a perfect clean.

On the Facebook group ‘Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips’, Diane Hudson said: “I do mine at 40 and use anti-bacterial in with the softener every week.”

Another user seconded this, as Kathy Stapleton said: “With the detergents we have now 30 is fine.”

But the cleaning tipsters were keen to share that it is important to have the right detergents before washing sheets at a lower temperature.

Facebook user Rita stated: “I use Soda crystals and White Vinegar alternately in every wash, at 30 don’t have a problem.”

The Express spoke to the team cleaning brand Astonish, whose Protect + Care Laundry Cleanser promises to give you a hygienically clean wash and kill 99.9% of bacteria – even at lower temperatures.

All you need to do is add four capfuls of the product to the fabric softener drawer of your washing machine when you put a load on and you are good to go.

The product is “ideal for towels, children’s clothes, sportswear, underwear, socks, bedding and more, with an allergen free fragrance”.

Paula Quazi, co-founder of eco-cleaning brand smol, echoed this advice, and urged people to buy a detergent that’s suited to a colder wash before turning the temperature dial down.

She said: “Washing at 60°c is usually what’s recommended for a weekly bed linen wash, however, by using a good laundry detergent, washing at 30°c will work just as well [and is] even recommended for washing with bio laundry capsules, as any higher will actually cause the cleaning enzymes to denature and work less effectively.

“I recommended a regular weekly wash at 30°c and a monthly wash at 60°c to help kill off dust mites and other nasties.”

These revelations come as well after Fairy Liquid revealed its new cold washing up liquid which can be used to clean dishes hygienically at lower temperatures – a big hit with those looking to save money on bills.

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