Choosing the right laundry temperature can impact your clothing and the efficiency of your washer and detergent. Many garments have specific laundry care instructions on the label, so be sure to read those before choosing your machine settings. However, if you don’t have access to care instructions or are instead looking for general laundry care guidelines, here’s what you should know about the most common temperature settings.

A Guide for Choosing Laundry Care Temperature

When to Wash In Cold Water

Colorful clothing tends to fade more quickly when washed at a higher temperature, so such garments are best suited for cold cycles. Low temperatures are also preferred for shrink-prone fabrics, such as wool. Finally, cold water can help when garments are soiled with coffee, wine, or blood since these stains tend to set when exposed to higher temperatures.

When to Wash In Warm Water

The warm setting provides a happy middle ground between hot and cold cycles. It won’t fade colors as quickly as hot water, but it will offer better soil and stain removal than cold water. It’s best suited for sturdy fabrics like denim and polyester.

When to Wash In Hot Water

The hot water setting is perfect for especially dirty garments since it removes most stains and kills germs effectively. It’s also perfect for white clothing and linens as you don’t need to worry about these items fading. Be wary of washing delicate or shrink-prone fabrics in hot water. These objects—even if they’re heavily soiled—may be best reserved for warm or cold settings.

If you’re looking for a laundromat where you can give all of your garments a thorough clean, visit Evans Mill Laundry in Lithonia, GA. The laundromat offers high-efficiency washers and dryers, along with folding tables, arcade games, and free Wi-Fi. The facilities have machines that accept both coins and credit and debit cards. You can enjoy a cozy atmosphere with the confidence that all of your laundry care needs will be met. Learn more about the laundry facility online or call (770) 484-9974 to speak with a member of the team.