Washing machines offer a range of temperature settings, but laundry professionals agree that hot water is often the wrong choice for many everyday garments. From wool sweaters to workout leggings, heat can cause irreversible damage, including shrinkage, fading, and loss of elasticity. Experts from laundry services and cleaning industry bodies explain why cold water is frequently the safer option—and when hot water still has its place.
Rechelle Balanzat, CEO of the laundry-service company Juliette, says cold water acts as a protective agent for clothing. “Cold water is your wardrobe’s best friend: It’s gentler, prevents damage, and helps your clothes last longer—so you can look polished without the wear and tear,” she told us. Her advice aligns with a broader industry consensus that heat accelerates wear on many fabrics.
Why Wool and Cashmere Shrink
Wool and cashmere are among the most vulnerable materials. Heat and agitation cause the fibers to mat together permanently, a process known as felting. Matt O’Connor, CEO of NoScrubs Laundry Delivery, warns that a beloved sweater can turn into “doll clothes” after a hot-water cycle. Pilling—the formation of small fabric balls—is another common side effect. To preserve these garments, experts recommend washing them in cold or lukewarm water with minimal agitation, ideally by hand or on a delicate machine cycle.
Delicates such as silk, lace, and certain synthetic fabrics also suffer in hot water. High temperatures can shrink these materials, fade their colors, dull their sheen, and weaken the fibers, making them more prone to tearing. Balanzat suggests using cold water and a gentle detergent for these items to maintain their appearance and durability.
Towels, Activewear, and Undergarments
High thread-count towels present a unique dilemma. While they come into contact with germs and might seem to require hot water for sanitation, heat can degrade the fibers, causing fading, a loss of plushness, and reduced absorbency. Jessica Ek, laundry expert and associate vice president at the American Cleaning Institute (ACI), points out that a laundry sanitizer can kill certain bacteria and viruses without the damaging effects of hot water. This offers a middle ground for those concerned about hygiene.
Activewear and underwear are also on the no-hot-water list. Most athletic apparel is designed with stretch in mind, but heat breaks down elasticity over time, compromising both fit and performance, according to Balanzat. The same applies to undergarments, which rely on elastic materials to maintain their shape. For these items, cold water is the recommended choice, and a laundry sanitizer can help address odor without heat.
Protecting Dark and Colorful Clothing
Dark and vividly colored garments, including jeans, are prone to fading when washed in hot water. Heat sets dye unevenly, leading to a washed-out appearance. Denim is also known to shrink, so avoiding hot water helps maintain the fit of your favorite pair. Experts advise checking care labels for warnings about temperature, and unless you’re intentionally aiming for a faded, weathered look, cold water is the safer bet.
While hot water is not ideal for these items, it still has a role in the laundry room. Ek notes that hot water is useful for disinfecting articles with high germ potential, such as dish towels, baby clothes, and pet bedding. The key, according to the pros, is to match the water temperature to the fabric’s needs, not to default to hot for everything.
By following these guidelines, consumers can extend the life of their clothing, reduce waste, and keep their wardrobes looking fresh. The consensus among laundry experts is clear: when in doubt, choose cold.
