Washing machine settings change could ‘save nearly 40% on costs’

An expert has revealed that many people could be using their washing machines incorrectly without realising it. The costly mistake could see people lose time and money, according to the pros, who estimate households could save almost 40% on their running costs by fixing the error.

The advice was shared by Which? on the consumer champion’s social media. A post on TikTok asked viewers: “Are you using your washing machine wrong?” The video explained: “Cotton programmes are generally designed to wash at hotter temperatures, making them ideal for sturdy fabrics like towels, jeans, and bed sheets.

“But our tests show washing at 30°C will still remove everyday stains and can save you nearly 40% on running costs, compared with washing at 40°C.”

The advice continued: “Synthetics or easy care: these generally run at lower temperatures, 40°C or below, and spin less frequently to protect the fabrics. They’re designed for non-cotton items like clothes made from polyester and viscose.

“Wool and delicates: they have minimum drum rotation during the wash, similar to synthetics, but make sure you read the care label first, as some clothes recommend you never wash them in a machine, even on a delicate cycle. Quick wash settings can be as short as 15 minutes. These are good for either small loads or lightly soiled clothes if you’re in a hurry.

“Some machines only let you wash 1.5 kg of clothes at once, which is equivalent to two pairs of jeans. Other machines have a full load quick wash option, so you can fill the drum, but these are usually only for lightly soiled clothes. Extra spin: use the extra spin cycle to squeeze out more water so your laundry comes out less soggy and dries way quicker. Great if you can’t dry outdoors or don’t have a tumble dryer.”

However, that’s not to say you’ll want to run all your washes at a colder temperature. The Which? website explains: “Lower temperatures will be fine for everyday cleaning, but a 40°C wash will be better for tougher stains.”

Nonetheless, there are advantages to washing some clothes at 30°C, according to the pros. “Washing at 30°C uses 38% less energy than washing at 40°C, so you make a substantial saving on your bill and help the planet. More than a quarter of Which? members regularly use a 30°C program. It’s the recommended setting for a lot of delicate clothes, such as wool and silk. Always check the label, though.”

The experts add that you don’t necessarily need to increase the temperature to 50°C or 60°C to clean bedding and towels. “You need to combine your 60°C wash with a good detergent to blast that bacteria. You’re likely better off choosing a good detergent, treating stains and washing at 40°C to get a great clean that doesn’t cost a lot to run.”