What items should you avoid washing at 60 degrees Celsius? While washing clothes at higher temperatures can effectively remove stains and bacteria, certain fabrics and materials can be damaged by the heat. Understanding what not to wash at 60 degrees can help preserve your garments and household items.

Why Avoid Washing Certain Items at 60 Degrees?

Washing at 60 degrees Celsius is effective for removing tough stains and killing bacteria, but not all fabrics can withstand such high temperatures. High heat can lead to shrinkage, color fading, and fabric damage, reducing the lifespan of your clothing and textiles. Therefore, it’s crucial to know which items are sensitive to high temperatures.

What Fabrics Should Not Be Washed at 60 Degrees?

1. Delicate Fabrics

Delicate fabrics like silk, lace, and chiffon are prone to damage when exposed to high temperatures. These materials can lose their shape, become discolored, or even tear.

• Silk: Wash silk garments in cold water with a gentle detergent.
• Lace: Hand-wash lace items or use a delicate cycle with cold water.
• Chiffon: Use cold water and a gentle cycle to maintain chiffon’s texture.

2. Wool and Cashmere

Wool and cashmere are natural fibers that can shrink and lose their softness when washed at high temperatures.

• Wool: Opt for a wool-specific detergent and wash in cold water.
• Cashmere: Hand-wash in cold water and lay flat to dry.

3. Synthetic Fabrics

Synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon can become damaged or lose elasticity when washed at 60 degrees.

• Polyester: Wash in warm water, not exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.
• Nylon: Use cold or lukewarm water to prevent damage.

What Household Items Should Not Be Washed at 60 Degrees?

1. Curtains and Drapes

Curtains and drapes can shrink or fade when washed at high temperatures. Always check the care label and opt for a gentle cycle with cold water.

2. Bedding with Elastic

Bedding items like fitted sheets with elastic can lose their stretch and shape when exposed to high heat. Wash these items in warm water, not exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, to maintain elasticity.

3. Decorative Pillows and Throws

Decorative pillows and throws, especially those with embellishments, can become damaged in hot water. Use a gentle cycle with cold water to preserve their appearance.

How to Determine the Right Washing Temperature?

Check Care Labels

Always refer to the care labels on your garments and household items. These labels provide specific washing instructions, including the maximum temperature the fabric can withstand.

Conduct a Patch Test

If you’re unsure about washing an item at a certain temperature, perform a patch test. Wash a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric to see how it reacts to the temperature.

Consider Fabric Type and Color

• Light Colors: Can generally withstand higher temperatures than dark colors, which may fade.
• Natural Fibers: Such as cotton, can often handle warmer temperatures, but still, check the label.

People Also Ask

What temperature should towels be washed at?

Towels can typically be washed at 60 degrees Celsius to remove bacteria and odors effectively. However, always check the care label for specific instructions.

Can I wash jeans at 60 degrees?

Washing jeans at 60 degrees can cause them to fade and shrink. It’s best to wash jeans in cold water to preserve their color and fit.

Is it safe to wash bedding at 60 degrees?

Most bedding can be washed at 60 degrees to kill dust mites and bacteria. However, check the care label to ensure the material can withstand the heat.

What happens if you wash clothes at a higher temperature than recommended?

Washing clothes at a higher temperature than recommended can cause shrinkage, color fading, and fabric damage. It’s essential to follow the care instructions to maintain the quality of your garments.

Can you wash mixed fabric items at 60 degrees?

Mixed fabric items may have different temperature tolerances. It’s best to wash them at the lowest recommended temperature to avoid damaging the more sensitive fibers.

Conclusion

Understanding what not to wash at 60 degrees is crucial for maintaining the quality and longevity of your garments and household items. Always check care labels, consider the fabric type, and when in doubt, opt for a cooler wash. For more tips on laundry care and fabric maintenance, explore our related articles on laundry best practices and fabric care tips.