What temperature kills bacteria in a washing machine?

To effectively kill bacteria during washing, a washing temperature of at least 60°C is recommended. There are some bacteria that can survive washing at 60°C, but this is relatively uncommon. Most common household bacteria, viruses, and fungi are killed at 60°C, but some resistant bacteria and spores can survive. It is important to remove the opportunities for bacteria to multiply by washing, drying thoroughly, and storing clothes properly.

Even though there are bacteria and spores that can survive 60°C, it is very uncommon in regular household conditions. For most purposes, washing at 60°C is sufficient to achieve a high degree of hygiene and cleanliness. If there are specific concerns about resistant bacteria, complementary methods such as the use of disinfectants or higher temperatures can be considered.

Here are some details regarding this:

1. Washing at 60°C

• Effectiveness: At 60°C, most common bacteria, viruses, and fungi can be eliminated. This is particularly important for bed linens, towels, underwear, and socks that come into close contact with the body and may be more likely to carry microorganisms.
  
  

2. Higher temperatures

• 70°C or higher: For extra safety, especially in environments with a high risk of infection, such as healthcare settings, washing at 70°C or higher may be necessary to ensure that all pathogens are killed.
• Contaminated: If you suspect that you have contaminated textiles, they need to be washed at higher temperatures (60 degrees and up). Primarily, textiles from healthcare should be washed in controlled processes at a laundry to ensure the cleanliness of the textiles. Dirty laundry from healthcare is washed at a high temperature to kill microorganisms and thus reduce the risk of infection spread.
  
  

3. Lowest effective temperature

• 40°C: At 40°C, some bacteria and viruses can still survive, especially if the detergent and cycle time are not sufficiently effective. However, it is better than cold water and may be sufficient for everyday clothes that are not heavily soiled.
  
  

4. Use of disinfectants

• At lower temperatures: If you must wash clothes at lower temperatures, the addition of an antibacterial detergent or a disinfectant specifically designed for washing may be necessary to eliminate microorganisms.
  
  

Additional measures to ensure cleanliness:

1. Regular machine cleaning: Run an empty wash cycle at a high temperature (60°C or higher) with vinegar to keep the washing machine free from bacteria and mold.
2. Drying: Tumble drying on high heat or air drying in the sun can help to further reduce the number of remaining bacteria on the clothes.
3. Ironing: Ironing clothes with high heat can also help to kill any remaining microorganisms.
4. Do not buy clothes that cannot withstand proper washing. Avoid garments that should be washed at 30°C or even lower.
   
   

By following these guidelines and choosing the right temperature for different types of laundry, you can minimize the risk of bacteria surviving the washing process and ensure that your clothes are hygienically clean.

Questions and answers

1. Are there bacteria that can survive washing at 60°C?

Answer: Yes

2. Do you need to use disinfectant for the washing machine?

Answer: No, vinegar and cleaning by washing at a high temperature work well.

3. What is your best tip for avoiding bacteria in/on clothes?

Answer: Do not buy clothes that cannot withstand washing at 60°C