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Washing settings guide

What Temperature to Wash Clothes in the UK

A simple UK temperature guide for clothes, towels, bedding, whites, darks, and baby items.

The number on a wash care label is an upper temperature limit. Routine lightly soiled clothes may suit 30°C or lower with an appropriate detergent; 40°C and 60°C are options only where the fabric and purpose allow them.

Last updated: 22 September 2026

Quick answer

Best washing machine setting

Program

Match the fabric

Temperature

Stay within the label’s maximum

Spin

Use the suitable programme’s default; follow textile and model limits

Why: Temperature is one part of the wash decision, alongside the programme and detergent.

Safe tip: Check the care label and the load limit for this programme before starting.

Step-by-step setup

  1. 1.Read the temperature and wash-method symbols.
  2. 2.Check whether the item needs stain treatment rather than simply more heat.
  3. 3.Match programme and detergent to the fabric.
  4. 4.Set a temperature within the label’s limit.
  5. 5.Dry the item as its label directs.

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When to use this setting

  • 30°C or lower: consider for suitable lightly soiled clothes.
  • 40°C: an option for compatible items; check stain and detergent instructions.
  • 60°C: use only for permitted textiles and a suitable programme, not as a universal disinfection promise.

When not to use it

  • The label specifies a lower maximum or hand washing.
  • You are following specific infection-control instructions: this routine-laundry guide does not replace them.

Common mistakes

  • Treating the label’s maximum as a compulsory temperature.
  • Assuming every underwear, towel or baby item requires the same wash.
  • Promising germ removal from a temperature setting alone.

Related guides

Best Washing Machine Setting for Towels

For suitable cotton towels, Cottons or a dedicated Towels programme can be appropriate. Follow the towel label: 40°C may suit routine washing, while 60°C is only an option for textiles and programmes that permit it.

How to Wash Whites Properly

Separate whites from colours, then sort by fabric care. White colour is not permission for a hot wash: delicate whites and particular stains can need cooler treatment.

What Setting to Wash Bed Sheets

Choose settings for the sheet fabric, not bedding as a single category. The White Company gives 30°C or 40°C examples for its cotton and linen bedding and 30°C Delicates for its machine-washable silk. Your own sheet label takes priority.

Frequently asked questions

Is 30°C enough?+

It may suit routine lightly soiled items. Follow garment and detergent instructions for the particular load.

Must towels always be washed at 60°C?+

No. Follow the towel label and use the linked towel guide for routine choices.

Does selecting 60°C guarantee disinfection?+

This guide does not validate a disinfection process. Follow any specific hygiene instructions you have been given and confirm that the textile and programme are suitable.

Sources and limits

Programme names, load limits and permitted settings vary. Follow the item’s care label and the instructions for your exact machine.

  • Persil UK: wash temperaturesCare-label temperature limits, lower-temperature routine washing and the distinction between routine and more demanding loads. This detergent-maker guidance is not a validated disinfection process. Checked 22 September 2026.