Here are some tips to disinfect your clothes, which could be the biggest carriers of germs
Germs could be anywhere — on the surfaces, in the air and around us. Every time people cough, sneeze, shake hands, touch or spit, it is likely for germs to spread more. Clothes can be one of the biggest carriers of germs. Therefore, especially in this Coronavirus-hit world, it is important to take necessary precautions by implementing safe practices and an integral part of it is disinfection of clothes. Here are simple tips on keeping your clothes germ and allergen free.
Wash clothes with hot water
Hot water helps remove germs from the clothes. Washing clothes in hot water at 55-60 degrees not only cleans clothes better but also helps them get rid of being potential hosts for bacteria. Washing machines with in-built heaters are beneficial in this case and are equipped to give customised care for clothes with the help of various multiple hot water modes like warm, hot, allergen-free, etc.
Use chemical disinfectants
If the material is not resistant to high temperatures, chemical disinfectants can be used. Soak and disinfect the clothes with chlorine containing bleach. Turn the clothes inside out to reduce the chances of abrasion.
Well this comes with a disclaimer — use laundry detergent and bleach with the help of a dispenser. Chlorine bleach should never be poured directly onto clothes in a sink or washer because it can remove colour completely and dissolve the fibres. Either add the bleach to an automatic dispenser or into the washer water before adding the load of laundry.
Always clean your washers
It is important to clean your washers occasionally as germs, bacteria and dirt can get accumulated at the bottom of the machine giving away foul odour. In case you are using the latest washing machine models, they are pre-programmed to automatically clean off all the impurities left on the inner walls of the tub at the time of spin during every wash cycle. If not, always run your washing machine with a cleaner to remove any contaminants after every few washes.
Dry clothes in the machine dryer
Washer dryers are designed to remove moisture from wet clothes as damp clothes can become a breeding ground for germs. Therefore, ensure you run a dry cycle of clothes in the washing machine to aid efficient cleaning. New washing machines have multiple levels of drying options to take care of different fabric types.
Steam clean clothes
Steam cleaning clothes can also help remove bacteria from your clothes. It provides a gentle finish to them and acts as a trusted sanitiser. Realising the benefits of steam cleaning, it is the latest feature in washing machines with SteamCare technology that helps remove up to 99 per cent bacteria and allergens, ensuring clean and fresh clothes each time.
(The article is written on behalf of Whirlpool, India.)