A checklist for washing at thirty degrees
Short answer: Thirty degrees is a gentle temperature that suits many fabrics. With the right habits you get clean clothes without unnecessary wear. Here is a list of what to check.
Check the care label first
Everything starts with the care label in the clothes. It tells you what temperature, spin and drying the fabric tolerates. Also check whether the label recommends a gentle programme. Many pieces of viscose from bamboo are washed at 30 to 40 degrees, but it is always the label in your own clothes that counts. If the label is worn or missing, choose the mildest option. Clothes with prints, beads or other decorations may need separate treatment.
Sort by colour and care
Divide the laundry into piles: white, light, dark and coloured. Put together the piles that have the same temperature and programme. Do not wash heavy and light clothes together, so the pieces do not rub against each other. Clothes with zips and hook and loop tape should be closed so they do not snag threads. See Resteröds if you want to look at a brand for underwear and socks, but always check the label in your own items. Check pockets before you start.
Choose programme and load
A programme at 30 degrees can remove everyday dirt and sweat well if you use the right detergent. Choose a mild or liquid detergent that works at low temperature. Measure according to the pack's instructions and the hardness of the water. Do not fill the drum more than three quarters, so the clothes have room. An overfilled machine rinses poorly and causes wear. Use an extra rinse if you have sensitive skin or have used a lot of detergent.
Socks and footies
Socks and footies collect sweat and dirt, especially around the heel and toe. Turn them inside out and wash them at 30 degrees or the temperature the label recommends. Use a wash bag so they do not get lost in the machine. See bamboo footies for men and bamboo socks for men. If they have stains or smell, you can soak them in lukewarm water with detergent before washing.
Stains and smell at low temperature
At 30 degrees some stains are harder to remove. Pretreat the stains with a little detergent or a stain remover suited to your fabric. Let it work for a quarter of an hour before washing. For sweat and smell an extra rinse can help. If the smell sticks, an occasional wash at a higher temperature may be needed, if the label allows it. Keep the machine clean, because a dirty machine gives clothes a smell.
Drying and finishing
Take the clothes out of the machine straight away, so they do not lie damp. Shake them out and hang them to dry with good air. Let them dry flat or on a hanger, and avoid high heat in the tumble dryer. When the clothes are dry, fold them and put them away. Keep the machine clean by wiping the seal and door and leaving the door ajar so it can dry.
Frequently asked questions
Is 30 degrees enough to get clothes clean
Yes, for ordinary everyday dirt and sweat, if you use a detergent that works at low temperature. For stains, pretreatment can help.
Why should I turn clothes inside out
It protects the surface from wear and rubbing in the machine, and reduces the risk of pilling.
How full may the machine be
About three quarters, so the clothes have room to move. An overfilled machine washes less well.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
