- Scientists are changing their approach to washing towels, moving away from traditionally high temperatures.
- New research shows that washing at 40°C with modern detergents is effective and safe for fabrics.
- Discover how to wash towels properly to keep them soft and absorbent while saving energy!
Scientists have changed the rules for washing towels. Now you can do it like this
For many years, towels were washed at high temperatures. This was the only way to kill bacteria and microorganisms one hundred percent. High temperature also removed unpleasant odors, including mustiness. In the old days, you even boiled towels. Only this way guaranteed proper cleanliness and safety during use. However, such washing had its drawbacks. Very high temperatures had an impact on the condition of fabrics. They deteriorated faster, stiffened and even broke. Recent research by scientists has shown that modern washing machines can be washed at slightly lower temperatures.
. A temperature of 40 degrees Celsius is sufficient for everyday washing of household towels. It is worth choosing the 60 degrees Celsius program when we need greater disinfection, for example after an illness. However, research has shown that frequent washing of cotton towels at 60 degrees Celsius leads to micro-damage and a faster loss of absorbency of the towels. After just a few months of such washing, towels may become irreversibly damaged. Additionally, washing at 60 degrees Celsius consumes much more electricity. Depending on the washing machine, the 40 degrees Celsius program consumes 0.65 kWh, and the 60 degrees Celsius program consumes as much as 1.3 kWh.
Research has shown that washing at 40 degrees Celsius using modern detergents removes batteries and restores freshness and cleanliness to towels. Experts recommend choosing peroxide-based detergents, which are effective disinfectants.
Vinegar or baking soda? Which home method of washing towels works better?
Recently they have been becoming more and more popular. Many people recommend adding vinegar or baking soda. Are these methods actually effective?
Vinegar added to washing towels helps disinfect them. It has antibacterial properties and removes unpleasant odors. Additionally, it softens the water, which prevents the washed fabrics from becoming stiff. A small amount of vinegar can actually have a positive effect on washed towels. All you need to do is use half a glass of vinegar for one wash cycle. Do not use more because the acidic formula of vinegar may weaken some parts of the washing machine, such as rubber seals. Additionally, remember that vinegar does not have washing properties, which means it will not replace detergent. Baking soda is great for washing yellowed white towels. Gently whitens without destroying the structure of the material. It is anti-allergic and also removes bacteria and germs. Its action is more gentle and is perfect for washing towels for children and allergy sufferers. They also will not replace a classic detergent, but can complement it. 4 tablespoons of baking soda are enough for one wash, I add it directly to the washing machine drum.
