Use cold water for delicates, brights, and lightly soiled items

Choose cold water (60-80°F / 15-27°C) for delicate fabrics, vivid or dark colors, lightly soiled clothing, and any item where you want to minimize shrinkage and fading.

Why It Works

Cold water keeps fabric fibers tight, which locks in dye and prevents shrinkage. It is gentlest on all fabric types and uses the least energy. Modern cold-water detergents contain enzymes engineered to work at low temperatures, closing much of the cleaning gap that once existed between cold and warm water.

Tips

• Cold water saves up to 90% of the energy a washing machine uses compared to hot
• Nearly all everyday clothing can be safely washed in cold water
• In very cold climates, tap water below 60°F may need a "cool" rather than "cold" setting for detergent to dissolve
• Pre-treating stains is especially important with cold water since heat is not available to help