Washing clothes in hot water has been a common practice for various reasons, but as you pointed out, it's not always necessary and can indeed waste energy. Let's explore some of the historical and practical reasons behind using hot water for laundry:
Tradition and perception: For many years, using hot water for laundry was a tradition passed down through generations. People believed that hot water would help remove dirt and stains better, even though this might not always be the case.
Grease and oil stains: Hot water can be more effective in breaking down and removing greasy and oily stains from clothes. Some industrial workwear and heavily soiled garments may benefit from hot water washing to help remove these types of stains.
Allergens and dust mites: Hot water (at temperatures around 140°F or 60°C) can aid in eliminating allergens and dust mites from bedding and certain fabrics that are safe for high-temperature washing. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with allergies or sensitivities.
Comfort and habit: Some people find that washing clothes in hot water gives them a feeling of cleanliness and freshness, and it may have become a habit over time.
However, you are right that for most everyday laundry, using hot water is not necessary and can be wasteful. Modern detergents are formulated to work effectively at lower temperatures, and many washing machines have various settings designed for energy efficiency.
For typical clothing, washing in cold water (around 60°F or 15°C) or warm water (around 85°F to 105°F or 30°C to 40°C) is usually sufficient to achieve good cleaning results. Cold water washing can also help preserve the colors and quality of the fabrics over time.
Advantages of using cold or warm water for laundry:
Energy efficiency: Cold water washing consumes significantly less energy than using hot water, leading to reduced utility bills and lower environmental impact.
Fabric preservation: Lower temperatures are gentler on fabrics, helping to extend the life of your clothes.
Environmentally friendly: By reducing energy consumption, you contribute to a smaller carbon footprint.
Convenience: Many modern detergents are formulated to work effectively in cold water, making it a convenient and practical choice.
In conclusion, while there may be specific cases where hot water washing is beneficial, for most routine laundry, cold or warm water washing is sufficient and more environmentally friendly. Consider adjusting your laundry practices to save energy and money while still getting clean and fresh clothes.