12 Common Items I Refuse to Wash in Cold Water—And Neither Should You
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A cold water wash sounds like a dream. They’re energy-saving, and many aren’t as harsh on clothes. In fact, the US Department of Energy reports that 90 percent of the energy used in washing machines goes toward heating water. Therefore, cold water is the obvious answer for budget-conscious Americans.
However, not everything belongs to the cold cycle. Some items need hot or warm water to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned, bacteria-free, and long-lasting.
According to Dr. Charles Gerba, a microbiologist at the University of Arizona, “Cold water washes leave behind bacteria, allergens, and grime that can accumulate over time, especially in heavily soiled items.” Curious?
Towels
Towels are totally overworked. They’re patting down sweat, dirt, and everything in between. Also, did you know a key study by the University of Arizona found that a towel can have 100,000 times more bacteria than a toilet seat? But cold water doesn’t do it for these heavy-duty items.
“Hot water—at least 130°F—is essential to kill bacteria and remove oils trapped in the fibers,” explains Dr. Gerba. A hot wash sanitizes your towels and keeps them soft and fluffy. Over time, Cold washes lead to detergent buildup, leaving towels stiff and scratchy.
Bed Sheets
On average, you spend a third of your life in bed, shedding 500 million skin cells and sweating up to a liter of fluid every night. This creates the perfect environment for dust mites and bacteria. According to Dr Lisa Ackerley, a hygiene expert, cold water doesn’t kill dust mites and so won’t effectively remove body oils.
While hot water can kill dust mites, it eliminates allergens and creates a healthier sleeping area. Washing sheets in hot water once a week cuts the allergy triggers by 60 percent, the National Sleep Foundation says.
Underwear
Because some of your dirtiest body parts come into direct contact with your underwear, it is one of the most bacteria-laden items in your laundry basket. Cold water removes only 60 percent of bacteria from undergarments, while hot water vanishes close to 99 percent of bacteria.
“Hot water is essential for eliminating pathogens like E. coli, which can linger even after washing,” says Dr. Jill Buckley, a textile scientist. An added protection can be a detergent that has antibacterial properties.
Cloth Diapers
While reusable cloth diapers are eco-friendly for any baby, they must be cleaned well enough to be safe. The American Academy of Pediatrics says cold water washing cloth diapers can leave behind fecal bacteria and odors.
“Hot water at 140°F or higher is critical to kill bacteria and break down stains,” says pediatrician Dr. Amanda Price. While it might save energy, a cold wash may not be worth risking your baby’s health.
Kitchen Towels and Dishcloths
These hard-working items would touch raw meat juices, spilled food, and bacteria from the countertops. According to the USDA, kitchen towels are also among the most contaminated items in a household—they can be home to Salmonella and E. coli.
“Cold water is insufficient for removing grease and killing bacteria,” says Dr. Gerba. Kitchen towels should be washed in hot water (140°F or higher) to be safe.
Gym Clothes
Anyone who has worn synthetic gym clothes can attest that they trap in your sweat and stink, causing bacteria. A recent study in the Journal of Applied Microbiology discovered that up to 40% of odor-causing bacteria may be left behind when washing workout gear in cold water.
“Hot water is necessary to break down bacteria embedded in synthetic fabrics,” says fitness expert Rebecca Kaplan. Going with a warm wash cycle (around 90°F) and a sports-specific detergent will help keep your wick elastic.
Curtains and Drapes
Curtains look harmless, but they trap dust, pet dander, and allergens after a while. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, such fabric items trap roughly 90 percent of the allergens in the home.
Interior designer Heather Johnson says cold water won’t remove embedded allergens. To keep your home’s air clean and allergy—free, wash your curtains in hot water every six months or so.
White Clothes
When sweat and body oils turn your crisp white shirt yellow and dull, nothing ruins it faster. However, cold water can leave residues behind and make this problem worse. “Hot water is key for breaking down oils and keeping whites bright,” fashion expert Chloe Fields explains.
If you want your white clothes to stay white, wash them in warm (140°F) water and toss in an oxygen bleach. Smart washing of whites (wash hot) will preserve their brightness 40% longer than if washed in cold cycles, say studies.
Socks
Because socks are essentially a hygiene hotspot (think bacteria, fungi, sweat), they need even more care or, perhaps more realistically, less abuse. The American Podiatric Medical Association warns that washing socks in cold water can leave fungi behind, such as athlete’s foot, which can reinfect wearers.
“Hot water is necessary to kill pathogens and keep your feet healthy,” says podiatrist Dr. Emily Lin. Cotton socks do best with a hot cycle at 140°F or higher.
Baby Clothes
Baby clothes are too delicate and often stained—with food or spit up. Cold water cannot break down these stains, leaving behind bacteria that aggravate sensitive skin issues. Parents magazine states hot water is 30 percent more effective than cold water at removing stains and germs.
“If you are using the water to wash cloths you can use the hot for hot so it makes sure the baby clothes are actually being taken care of and sanitized and safe,” says Pediatric Dermatologist Dr. Laura Kaye.
Reusable Bags
Many of us have reusable grocery bags that could be breeding grounds for bacteria after they’ve been used to carry raw meat, unwashed produce, or items that have leaked. A University of Arizona study found that 51 percent of reusable bags tested positive for harmful bacteria, including E. coli.
Food safety expert Dr. Marsha Cohen says cold water alone won’t kill these pathogens. Reusing bags such as this is fine, but, as with plastic ever, they should be thoroughly rinsed in warm or hot water after every use, especially if they carry perishables.
Washcloths and Loofahs
Moisture and dead skin cells meet daily on washcloths and loofahs, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. According to the University of Colorado, bacteria on damp washcloths double within 24 hours.
“Hot water is essential for sanitizing these items and preventing skin infections,” says dermatologist Dr. Angela Park. Replace loofahs monthly, and wash your towels in hot water directly after use.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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