This post may contain affiliate links.

Cold water laundry cycles use less energy, help reduce utility bills, and can be gentler on certain fabrics. In fact, most of the energy used by a washing machine goes toward heating water, which is why cold washes are often recommended for everyday clothing.

But cold water isn’t always the best choice. Some items collect sweat, body oils, bacteria, or heavy dirt that cold water alone may not fully remove. In those cases, warm or hot water does a better job of breaking down grime and keeping things truly clean.

Here are 10 things I never wash in cold water, and you probably shouldn’t either.

white clothes — Photo Credit: Kaboompics.com/pexels

Towels

Towels go through a lot every day. They absorb sweat, body oils, and moisture, which can easily lead to bacterial buildup.

Washing towels in hot water helps remove trapped oils and keeps them smelling fresh. Cold washes can sometimes leave behind detergent residue and buildup over time.

Bed Sheets

Sheets collect sweat, skin cells, and body oils every night. Over time, that buildup can create the perfect environment for dust mites and allergens.

Hot water does a better job of removing these particles and keeping bedding truly clean, especially if someone in the home struggles with allergies.

Underwear

Underwear comes into close contact with the body and tends to carry more bacteria than most other clothing. Because of this, a warmer wash cycle helps ensure it’s properly sanitized.

Using hot or warm water can help eliminate bacteria that cold water may leave behind.

Cloth Diapers

Cloth diapers need thorough cleaning to remove bacteria and odors. A cold wash alone may not fully break down the stains and residue left behind.

Most cloth diaper care guidelines recommend hot water cycles to properly sanitize them.

Kitchen Towels and Dishcloths

Kitchen towels are often used to wipe hands, dishes, countertops, and spills. Because they frequently come into contact with food residue and grease, they can harbor bacteria.

Hot water helps break down grease and sanitize these heavily used cloths.

Gym Clothes

Workout clothing absorbs sweat and bacteria during exercise. Synthetic fabrics commonly used in athletic gear can trap odor-causing bacteria in the fibers.

A warm or hot wash cycle can help remove lingering odors and keep gym clothes fresher.

White Clothes

White fabrics tend to collect body oils, sweat stains, and dull buildup from repeated washing. Cold water may not fully break down those oils.

Occasionally, using warm or hot water can help keep white clothing looking brighter and cleaner.

Socks

Socks absorb sweat throughout the day and can easily collect bacteria or fungi. Cold water alone may not always remove everything trapped in the fibers.

Hot water can help eliminate odors and keep socks hygienic.