9 things you should never wash in hot water, according to experts

And what to wash in hot water instead.

There’s no doubt that hot water serves its purpose of cleaning and sanitizing items, but that doesn’t mean this setting should be the default for every load. selecting correct washing temperature is essential for everything you machine or hand wash, as it affects the function and, in some cases, the appearance of your items.

While it exists items you should never wash in cold waterthere are also items that should be kept away from hot water. To find out what these items are, we spoke to two laundry experts to share their knowledge on never washing at hot temperatures.

Meet the experts

What not to wash in hot water

delicates

Certain fabrics, especially delicate ones such as silk, lace, Cashmereor certain synthetic materials should avoid being washed in hot water at all costs. According to Dills, these materials can be damaged from heat and cause them to lose their shape or texture. When it comes to washing a cashmere sweater, Shields says, “Cashmere is a luxury fabric that should be treated as such. Expect it to shrink and warp in hot water, just like wool. Heat will damage the natural oils in the fibers that keep cashmere soft and comfortable.”

Active clothing

After sweating it out in your beloved sportswear, avoid using warmer temperatures in the washing machine to sanitize and deodorize. “Many athletic fabrics contain stretch fibers that can break down at high temperatures, affecting their stretch and fit,” says Dills. And last time I checked, no one wants their yoga pants to lose their gloriously comfortable fit.

Underwear and bras

Both of our experts agree that underwear and bras are best washed at lower temperatures to preserve their function, so you don’t have to buy more support pieces. “The heat from washing with hot water can damage the elastic fibers normally used in bras and underwear, causing them to lose their shape and support,” says Dills.

Embellished clothing

Similar to cashmere garments, Dills recommends treating your embellished items like a luxury item, as higher temperatures can damage these pieces. “When you buy clothes that either have sequins, knit patterns, or rhinestones, the last thing you want is for them to fall out after a wash. Decorations that are sewn on can tear easily in the washing machine and if they are glued on, the intensity of the hot water can break down the glue. Washing your hands with cold water is the safest choice,” she says.

Dark and colorful items

Hot water is notorious for causing dark, colorful objects to fade over time, causing them to lose their vibrancy. To keep clothes looking as bright and fade-free as possible, Dills and Shields recommends washing these items at lower temperatures, as this setting preserves the colour.

Crochet blankets

If you haven’t noticed by now, hot water tends to break a lot of materials, including blankets and crochet items. Whether you crocheted the blanket yourself or received it as a housewarming gift, Dills says to only hand wash it in cold water. “Hand wash your favorite crochet blankets with a mild detergent in cold water. Avoid hot water as it can cause the fibers to shrink or lose shape.”

Skin

Leather is another fabric that should be washed at lower temperatures, like other delicate items. “Whether it’s a jacket or a lining on your shoes, always keep your skin away from the heat. Leather and hot water are a terrible match. It will become stiff as the heat strips away the natural oils, leaving the skin dry and brittle,” she says Shields.

Denim

You know that favorite pair of jeans you’ve been stashing away for a night out? Remember that it is best to wash them is anything but hot water. “No one wants jeans two sizes too small, so don’t wash them in hot water. It also makes denim fade faster, so those perfect items could end up looking worn,” says Shields.

High thread count towels

Finally, our experts say those high-thread-count towels should also be kept out of hot water. “These towels feel like a little slice of luxury every time you use them. But throw them in hot water and that luxury starts to fade, literally,” says Shields. “Hot water will cause them to fade and lose their plush feel. As the fibers wear down, they won’t absorb water either, which is basically what a towel is for! Nobody wants to get out of the shower and feel like they’re sandpapering themselves dry.”

What can you wash in hot water?

So with all the items that are considered unsuitable for hot water, what items are acceptable for these temperatures? Here are some things our experts say are perfectly safe to throw in a hot wash:

Shower curtains: “Many homeowners don’t know that you can throw your shower curtain in the washing machine! Depending on the fabric, you can run a gentle cycle with hot water and regular detergent. Be sure to throw in some towels with it. Then leave it. dry,” says Dills.
Linens and towels: Dills says, “Always read the care label to make sure the garment should be washed in hot water. In some cases, washing white clothes in hot water can help remove stains and maintain shine. Hot water can also help clean towels very well. dirty.”
Cloth diapers and baby items: “For me, only when someone got sick just to kill the germs and bacteria. “Also, if you’re washing cloth diapers or any baby items, hot water helps to sanitize and keep everything safe for baby’s sensitive skin,” says Shields.