Washing at 20, 30 or 40 degrees: What’s better for your laundry?

In a student house, the washing machine is constantly running: from sports clothes and towels to outfits for that one party. But what’s the best temperature to wash at? Should you wash at 20 degrees to save energy? Or is 30 or 40 degrees a smarter choice? Here’s what you really need to know about doing laundry in a student house, with tips to keep your clothes looking good and your energy bill low.
Washing at 20 degrees: Chill for your clothes, your energy bill (and the planet)

Washing at 20 degrees: Why should you do it?

1. You use much less energy (great for your wallet and the climate).
2. Your clothes wear out less quickly: colors stay vibrant, fabric stays tight.
3. Perfect for clothes that aren’t really dirty — like that shirt you wore for 2 hours.

But be aware:

1. 20 degrees is too cold to kill bacteria. Not recommended for underwear, sportswear, or towels.
2. Stubborn stains (like sauce or sweat) don’t always come out well.
3. Use a detergent that works at low temperatures.

Ideal for: quick washes, light clothing, outfits that just need freshening up.

Washing at 30 degrees: Why is this a safe choice?

1. Works well with almost all clothes: from jeans to shirts and sweaters.
2. Less energy use than 40 degrees, but better at removing odors and light stains than washing at 20.
3. Your clothes stay looking good longer than with hot washes. Less chance of shrinkage or color fading.

What should you watch out for?

1. Not always strong enough for really dirty laundry or smelly sportswear.
2. Still not bacteria-killing.

Washing at 40 degrees: Why is this a good idea?

1. Kills bacteria. Great for underwear, socks, bedding and sportswear.
2. Removes bad odors and stubborn stains much better.
3. No need to use a special cold-water detergent.

The downsides?

1. Higher energy use = higher cost (especially if the washing machine runs a lot).
2. Your clothes wear out faster: colors may fade, fabric may shrink.

Finally: smart washing is simple

Washing at 20, 30 or 40 degrees is mostly about thinking for a second: how dirty is your laundry, and what are you putting in the drum? By choosing the right temperature, you save energy, keep your clothes in better shape, and help the environment too.

Make sure you use a detergent that works at the temperature you’re washing at. Especially at 20 or 30 degrees, you need a detergent that performs well in cooler water, or your laundry won’t actually get clean.

In short: a little attention makes a big difference for your clothes, your wallet, and the planet.