Top Doctor Exposes Common Laundry Mistake, Reveals Optimal Temperature to Eliminate Germs

Think Your Washing Machine Kills Germs? Think Again – Here’s How to Do It Right
[Image: Dr. Chris van Tulleken discussing laundry tips on BBC Morning Live]

Cleaning clothes isn’t as simple as tossing them into the washing machine, warns Dr. Chris van Tulleken, infectious diseases expert and author of Ultra-Processed People. In a recent BBC Morning Live segment, he revealed that many people unknowingly wear clothes teeming with bacteria due to incorrect washing habits. The key? Temperature control.

Hot vs. Cold: What’s Best?

90°C is overkill
While washing machines can reach 90°C (nearly boiling), this extreme heat damages fabrics and spikes energy bills. “If clothes are that dirty, you need new ones,” Dr. van Tulleken joked.

60°C for sickness
If someone in your household is ill (e.g., with norovirus), 60°C is essential to kill germs, aligning with World Health Organization guidelines. This temperature, combined with detergent, effectively tackles pathogens.

Skip 40°C
The doctor dismisses 40°C as a “lukewarm no man’s land”—too hot for savings, too cold for hygiene. Instead, he recommends 30°C for everyday loads, which saves 40% in energy costs compared to 40°C.

20°C for eco-friendly cleaning
Dr. van Tulleken admits he washes most clothes at 20°C (except gym gear), slashing energy use by 62% versus 40°C. However, this requires cold-water detergent and a pristine washing machine.

[Image: Infographic comparing washing temperatures and their uses]

Don’t Forget the Machine Itself

A dirty washer can harbor mold and mildew, contaminating clothes. The expert’s tips:

• Clean the detergent drawer monthly (even dishwasher-safe trays).
• Wipe the drum and door seal weekly with vinegar or a disinfectant.
• Run a hot cleaning cycle as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Empty the filter every 3–6 months and leave the door open after use to dry.

Final Takeaways

• Daily laundry: 20–30°C with cold-water detergent.
• Illness or heavy stains: 60°C.
• Machine hygiene: Regular cleaning prevents odors and bacteria buildup.

[Image: Clean vs. neglected washing machine parts comparison]

By adjusting temperatures and maintaining your machine, you’ll save money, protect clothes, and ensure germs don’t linger. As Dr. van Tulleken puts it: “Commit to hot or cold—no half-measures!”

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