What temperature kills bacteria in a washing machine?

To effectively kill bacteria during washing, a washing temperature of at least 60°C is recommended. Some bacteria can survive washing at 60°C, but this is relatively uncommon. However, most common household bacteria, viruses, and fungi are killed at 60*C, although some resistant bacteria and spores may survive. It is important to eliminate opportunities for bacteria to multiply by washing, drying clothes thoroughly, and storing them properly. 

 

Although there are bacteria and spores that can survive 60°C, this is very uncommon under normal household conditions. For most purposes, washing at 60°C is sufficient to achieve a high level of hygiene and cleanliness. If there are specific concerns about resistant bacteria, supplementary methods such as using disinfectants or higher temperatures may be considered.

 

Here are some details about 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 linen, 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 above). As a first priority, textiles from healthcare and social care should be washed in controlled laundry processes to ensure their cleanliness. Soiled laundry from healthcare and social care is washed at a high temperature to kill microorganisms and thereby reduce the risk of spreading infection. 
  
  

3. Lowest effective temperature

• 40°C: At 40°C, some bacteria and viruses may 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. Using disinfectant

• At lower temperatures: If you must wash clothes at lower temperatures, adding an antibacterial detergent or a disinfectant specifically designed for laundry 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 at high heat or air-drying in the sun can help further reduce the number of remaining bacteria on clothes.
3. Ironing: Ironing clothes at high heat can also help kill any remaining microorganisms.
4. Do not buy clothes that cannot withstand a proper wash. 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. Is disinfectant necessary 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