Walk into any UK household and you'll find strong opinions on this one. Some people swear by a 60°C wash for sheets; others have switched everything to 30°C to save money. The truth is that both are right, depending on the situation. Here's how to pick the right temperature every time.
The case for washing at 30°C
Heating water is what uses most of the energy in a wash cycle. The Energy Saving Trust estimates that washing at 30°C rather than at higher temperatures uses around 57% less electricity, saving a typical household money over the year. With energy prices rising again this winter, that adds up.
Modern detergents are designed to work well at low temperatures, and cooler washes are also kinder to fabrics, helping colours stay vibrant and reducing shrinkage and wear. For everyday bedding that isn't heavily soiled, and where nobody in the household has allergies or is unwell, a 30°C or 40°C wash with a good detergent will usually do the job.
The case for washing at 60°C
There are times when heat genuinely matters:
- Dust mite allergies. Allergy UK advises that washing bedding at 60°C or above kills house dust mites. The allergen itself dissolves in water, so lower-temperature washes still help remove it, but they won't kill the mites.
- Illness in the household. NHS infection-control guidance recommends washing soiled bedding and items from someone with an infection at 60°C or as hot as the fabric allows, separately from other laundry. Bedding that isn't soiled can be washed as normal.
- Heavily soiled bedding from accidents, sickness or night sweats.
- Shared items such as guest bedding after a visitor has been unwell.
Always check the care label first
The care label is the final word. If a label says 40°C maximum, washing at 60°C can cause shrinkage, fading or damage, and may affect your returns or warranty. As a general guide:
- Cotton such as Ella Cotton and Bella brushed cotton is generally robust; check your label for the maximum temperature.
- Bamboo-derived fabrics like Ackly Bamboo prefer gentler, cooler washes and a mild detergent to keep their silky feel. See our guide to caring for bamboo sheets.
- Mattress protectors with a waterproof layer should be washed gently and never ironed.
If you need a hot wash for allergy reasons but your bedding isn't suitable, Allergy UK suggests using tested barrier covers that can be washed at high temperatures instead.
A simple rule of thumb
| Situation | Suggested temperature |
|---|---|
| Everyday weekly change, no allergies or illness | 30 to 40°C with a good detergent |
| Dust mite allergy (where the label allows) | 60°C |
| Someone unwell or bedding soiled | 60°C or as hot as the label allows, washed separately |
| Delicate fabrics, including bamboo | Follow the label; usually a cooler, gentle cycle |
Get more from every wash
- Run full loads. Fewer, fuller washes save energy and water, but don't overfill: bedding needs room to move to get clean.
- Wash duvet covers inside out and fasten the buttons or zip to stop smaller items getting trapped inside.
- Use an extra spin to cut drying time in winter.
- Dry fully before putting bedding back on the bed or away in a cupboard.
- Go easy on fabric conditioner, which can build up on fibres and make them less absorbent over time.
Every bed tells a Sheet Story, and the right wash keeps it fresh for longer. If you're thinking of adding a spare set to make wash days easier, explore our fitted sheets and duvet covers, with free UK delivery on orders over £80.
