Scientists have uncovered the ideal washing machine setting to prolong the freshness of your clothes.
In a study conducted in partnership with Procter and Gamble, the University of Leeds suggests using the coldest, shortest wash cycle.
The research, conducted with design school instructor Lucy Cotton, investigated how machine washing leads to the release of microfibers from fabrics. According to Popular Mechanics, these lost fibres can accelerate garment ageing and weaken fabrics.
The study involved washing dozens of t-shirts of various colours and materials, then measuring for colour and microfibre loss.
The findings revealed that the colder and shorter the cycle, the less damage inflicted on the garments. A cold, 30-minute wash appears to be the optimal setting.
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Compared to a standard 40°C cotton cycle lasting roughly 85 minutes, a 30-minute cold cycle resulted in brighter colours, less dye bleeding onto other fabrics, and fewer microfibres released into the wash water, reports the Daily Star.
To ensure accuracy, the scientists ran the washing machines empty initially to eliminate any residual fluff. They then washed the mixed t-shirts, collected all the wash water, evaporated it, and weighed the residue to measure the microfibres.
To monitor colour damage and dye bleed, white ‘receiver’ fabrics were added to each load to observe the amount of colour transferred during various cycles.
The results were unequivocal: increased heat and duration resulted in more fading, more colour transfer, and more fibre loss – regardless of whether the shirts were made of cotton or polyester blends.
Moreover, the shedding persisted beyond a few washes: even after the eighth and 16th washes, substantial amounts of microfibres continued to be shed.
The study, spearheaded by researcher Cotton and published in the peer-reviewed journal Dyes and Pigments, was financed by PandG – a firm that markets cold-water detergents – but the tests and findings underwent review for publication.
