URGENT UPDATE: A leading health expert has issued a critical warning about laundry practices, emphasizing that washing clothes in warm water can pose serious health risks. Dr. Xand van Tulleken made his recommendations on BBC Morning Live, stating that washing at 60 degrees Celsius is essential for effectively killing germs and bacteria.
Dr. van Tulleken specifically highlighted that washing at this temperature is crucial if there is a risk of infection in the household, particularly with viruses like norovirus. “At 60 degrees, certain bugs will be killed, and that can be quite good,” he stated. Experts agree that this higher temperature, which is classified as hot washing, is effective and should be prioritized over the warm setting.
The doctor criticized the warm water option, calling it “a silly choice.” He noted, “It’s too hot to be cheap, and it’s too cold to kill [germs].” For those concerned about energy costs, Dr. van Tulleken endorses washing at 20 degrees Celsius for most clothing, as it saves significant energy. “20 degrees saves 62% of your money compared to 40 degrees, so that is a big deal,” he explained.
In addition to temperature, Dr. van Tulleken stressed the importance of maintaining your washing machine. He advised viewers to utilize the machine’s cleaning cycle regularly, especially if they often wash in cold water, to ensure effective cleaning.
Further insights from appliance repair expert Ian Palmer-Smith warn against common laundry mistakes that can compromise cleanliness and efficiency. Overusing detergent can lead to excess residue and longer wash times, while overcrowding the machine can create an unbalanced load, causing delays. “This is a really easy mistake to avoid by distributing your laundry evenly in the drum,” Palmer-Smith advised.
As laundry practices come under scrutiny, this information is vital for families aiming to protect their health and save on energy costs. With cold and warm settings being commonly misused, the call for public awareness is more urgent than ever.
Stay tuned for more updates on health guidelines and laundry best practices.
