At What Temperature Should Clothes Be Washed?

We wear and use our clothes, but washing and maintaining them regularly is pretty important for both hygiene and extending their lifespan.

However, there are different washing methods and temperatures for each type of clothing. So, at what temperature should clothes be washed? You can find the answer to this question in our article.

Each Fabric Has a Different Washing Temperature

It is vital to first know the type of fabric to determine the washing temperature for clothes. Because, each fabric type requires a different washing temperature. Additionally, depending on the fabric type, clothes may need to be washed in hot, warm, or cold water.

Durable fabrics, such as cotton, can generally be washed in hot water. However, it is still important to check the label on the clothing. Delicate fabrics, such as synthetics, should usually be washed in warm or cold water. Natural fabrics like wool or silk should be washed in cold water, because hot water can damage these materials.

Pay Attention to These Temperatures When Washing Colored Clothing

Deciding the washing temperature for colorful clothes can be a bit more challenging. Typically, these clothes are washed in relatively cool water, around 86–104°F (30–40°C). However, it’s still important to check the label on the garment. If your clothes tend to fade quickly, you may need to wash them in even cooler water. Therefore, they are generally recommended to be washed at water temperatures between 86–104°F (30–40°C), depending on your machine's settings.

White Clothes Are More Resistant to Hot Water

White clothes (undershirts, underwear, etc.) are typically washed at temperatures ranging from 140°F to 194°F (60°C to 90°C). These temperatures help white clothes appear cleaner and brighter. However, it is still essential to check the care label on the garment. High-temperature washing can be harmful to certain types of fabric. Some delicate materials may shrink when washed at higher temperatures, while others may lose their properties or stretch when exposed to hot water.

Therefore, always check the care label on the clothing item before washing. The most heat-resistant fabrics, such as those used for white undergarments and undershirts, can generally withstand washing at 140°F to 194°F (60°C to 90°C) without any issues.

Things to Consider When Washing Shirts

Shirts are a staple piece for any wardrobe. They can be easily worn for office attire, formal events, or casual daily use. However, properly washing and caring for shirts is essential. Incorrect washing methods can lead to deformation, color fading, and even damage to the fabric.

Here are our recommendations on shirt washing and care that compiled for you :

1. Pay Attention to the Fabric Type

Washing shirts according to their fabric type is very important. Cotton shirts, polyester shirts, linen shirts, silk shirts, etc., all require different washing methods. By reading the instructions on the label, you can ensure that your shirt is washed using the correct method.

2. Separate Whites and Colors

Washing shirts together with whites can cause color fading in colored shirts. Therefore, it’s better to wash whites and colors separately. This way, your shirts will retain their vibrant colors without any color loss.

3. Wash at Low Temperatures

It is recommended to wash shirts at a low temperature. Hot water can damage your shirts and cause color loss. Additionally, high temperatures can cause shirts to shrink. Therefore, make sure to wash your shirts at a temperature between 85–105°F (30–40°C).

4. You Can Wash Shirts in a Machine

Washing shirts in the washing machine causes less deformation and wear on your shirts. Additionally, turning your shirts inside out before washing will give better results. It will also help prevent anything from other clothing from transferring onto your shirts.

5. Be Careful When Drying

Drying shirts in a dryer can cause them to shrink further and become deformed. Therefore, air-drying shirts by hanging them is always a better option. If you prefer to use a dryer, make sure to dry them on a low heat setting.

6. Prepare for Ironing

Before ironing your shirts, let them dry on a flat surface. Then, make sure to iron them at the temperature specified on the label. The fabric type of the shirt is also very important. Some fabrics, like satin, are very delicate and require extra care when ironing. Therefore, always pay attention to the warnings written on the label while ironing.

The temperature of the water is very important when washing your clothes. As we mentioned in our guide, you can choose the washing preference based on the fabric type of your clothing and easily achieve the desired results at the correct temperature.