Do you usually wash your laundry at 40°C, thinking it’s the perfect balance between cleanliness and fabric care? While it’s a common practice, it may not be as effective as you believe, especially when it comes to killing bacteria and ensuring proper hygiene. Should you reconsider your laundry routine? Here’s what experts have to say.

Why 40°C May Not Be Enough to Kill Bacteria

Though 40°C is often viewed as a reasonable compromise that’s gentle on clothes, it falls short when it comes to fully sanitizing laundry.

Here’s why:

Resistant germs: Harmful bacteria like E. coli and salmonella, often found on underwear, towels, and bed linens, can survive a 40°C wash.

Incomplete residue removal: At this temperature, body oils and other organic dirt might not completely dissolve, leaving clothes feeling less than fresh.

Cross-contamination risks: If bacteria aren’t destroyed, they can transfer to other items during the wash cycle.

What’s the Best Temperature for Truly Clean Laundry?

60°C – For a More Hygienic Clean

Laundry professionals recommend 60°C for certain items to ensure bacteria and grime are properly removed:

Towels and bed sheets
Underwear
Sportswear or work clothes exposed to heavy soiling

At this higher temperature, bacteria are killed off more reliably, and body oils are better broken down.

30°C – A Low-Temperature Option with the Right Detergent

If you want to conserve energy or protect delicate fabrics, washing at 30°C is possible—just be sure to use enzymatic detergents, which are designed to clean effectively even in cooler water.