Washing clothes does not always ensure that it is truly clean. Who states it is British doctor Chris Van Tulleken, known for his public interventions on health, food and hygiene. In a recent interview with the program, the expert warned of a common mistake: most people wash clothes at ineffective temperatures to eliminate potentially dangerous microorganisms.
According to the doctor, the idea that the clothes always come out free of washing machine bacteria is misleading. Many people wear clothes that still contain invisible germs. The wash temperature is one of the key factors, but not always warmer is better.
The warm temperature may not solve
Although there are programs that reach the 90 degrees, Van Tulleken advises on the use of this temperature in normal washes. According to the doctor, this option is so hot that it can damage tissues and significantly increase energy consumption. He adds that if a piece needs this level of disinfection, it may be better to replace it.
In cases where there are contagious diseases at home, such as norovirus infections, the expert recommends following the World Health Organization nominations: a 60 degree washing with detergent is sufficient to eliminate pathogenic agents.
Already in daily use, washing at 40 degrees may not be the best option. According to the same doctor, this temperature is not hot enough to eliminate germs, but is already high enough to impact the electricity invoice.
When colder is better
Van Tulleken argues that washing 30 degrees is effective and energetically more advantageous. According to the expert, this simple reduction allows to save up to 40 percent in energy. In your case, it often opts for 20 degrees cycles, except when it comes to gym clothes. This choice represents an economy of about 62 percent compared to 40 degrees.
To ensure efficacy at lower temperatures, the doctor recommends using appropriate detergents. In addition, it underlines the importance of keeping the washing machine clean, a frequently neglected practice.
The washing machine also needs care
According to the same expert, the detergent compartment can become a focus of mold. To avoid this, put it on the regular dishwasher. The machine drum should be cleaned with vinegar and a cloth, and the door rubber should be sanitized weekly.
It also recommends emptying the filter of the machine every three months and keep the door ajar when not being used. These measures avoid bad odors and help prolong the life of the equipment.
The choice of temperature makes a difference
Washing clothes may seem simple, but the temperature used and the state of the machine has a direct impact on the health of the house and the accounts at the end of the month. According to Van Tulleken, choosing as well as washing and keeping the equipment clean are essential gestures to ensure long -term hygiene and savings.
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