Ever wondered if you’re making the right choice when you select “Tap Cold” on your washing machine? With energy costs rising and more people wanting to protect their clothes and the planet, it’s no surprise this setting sparks curiosity.
Choosing the right wash temperature impacts your clothes’ longevity, your energy bill, and your environmental footprint. In this article, we’ll clear up when and why to use tap cold, plus offer practical tips for cleaner, greener laundry.
When Should I Use “Tap Cold” On My Washing Machine?
Understanding the settings on your washing machine can help you get cleaner clothes and save money. Among these settings, “tap cold” often causes confusion. When exactly should you use “tap cold” instead of just “cold”? Let’s break it down so you know exactly when this setting is your best choice.
What Does “Tap Cold” Mean?
Most washing machines have both “cold” and “tap cold” options. Here’s what they mean:
- Tap Cold: This setting uses the water temperature that comes straight from your home’s cold water tap—no heating or mixing with hot water.
- Cold: The machine may slightly warm up the incoming cold water (usually to around 60°F/15.5°C) by mixing in a bit of hot water. This ensures detergents work well and offers more consistent cleaning, regardless of the season.
So, “tap cold” is truly as cold as your tap water gets, which can vary with the seasons and climate.
When Should You Use Tap Cold?
“Tap cold” isn’t just a frugal or eco-friendly choice. There are times when it’s the smartest setting for your laundry:
1. Washing Bright Colors and Delicates
- Reduces Fading: True tap cold prevents fading and bleeding, keeping your colors bright and vivid.
- Gentle Care: Delicate fabrics, such as silk, lace, and some synthetics, stay in better shape with the coldest water possible.
2. Washing Lightly Soiled Clothes
- Everyday Loads: Light daily wear—T-shirts, pajamas, or clothes worn briefly—don’t need warm water to get clean.
- Saving Energy: No need to heat water. You save on your utility bills and help the environment.
3. Protecting Fabric and Shape
- Prevents Shrinking: Cotton, wool, and rayon are less likely to shrink in tap cold water.
- Minimizes Wear: Seams, elastics, and fibers are less stressed, extending your garment’s life.
4. During Hot Weather or Warm Climates
- Comfortable Washing: If you live somewhere with warm tap water, “tap cold” can still be plenty effective and won’t shock your clothes with icy temperatures.
5. If You Have Sensitive Skin
- Gentler on Skin: Tap cold leaves less detergent residue behind, which may help those with sensitive or allergy-prone skin.
When NOT to Use Tap Cold
While “tap cold” is great for many cycles, there are times when it’s not the best option.
- Heavily Soiled Items
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Muddy clothes, heavily stained kitchen towels, or sweaty sports gear often need warmer temperatures for effective stain removal and sanitizing.
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Whites and Bedding
- Whites may need a boost from warmer water to stay bright.
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Sheets and towels, especially if someone is sick, should be washed warmer (hotter water kills germs and mites).
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Cold Climate Winters
- When tap water gets extremely cold (below 60°F/15.5°C), detergents—especially powdered ones—may not dissolve fully or clean as effectively.
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In deep winter, using the “cold” (slightly warmed) setting can help.
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Cleaning Oily or Greasy Stains
- Warm or hot water is better at dissolving fats and oils.
Key Benefits of Using Tap Cold
- Significant Energy Savings: Most of your washing machine’s energy is used for heating water. Using tap cold dramatically cuts costs.
- Environmental Impact: Lower energy use reduces your carbon footprint.
- Longer-Lasting Clothes: Less heat means less wear and tear on your favorite outfits.
- Color Protection: Prevents dye transfer and fading.
- Safe for Most Fabrics: Delicates and synthetics last longer and keep their shape.
Possible Challenges With Tap Cold
There are some things to watch out for if you regularly use tap cold:
- Detergent Effectiveness: Some detergents, especially powders, don’t dissolve as well in cold water. Consider switching to liquids or pods labeled for cold water washing.
- Reduced Stain Removal: Tap cold isn’t always tough enough for protein stains (blood, sweat) or oily messes.
- Variable Results: Water temperature depends on local climate and season, so performance can vary.
- Musty Smells: Wash machines run frequently in cold water may need extra cleaning cycles to prevent mildew buildup.
Best Practices When Using Tap Cold
Want to make the most of the tap cold setting? Keep these tips in mind:
1. Choose Cold Water Detergents
- Many modern detergents are formulated to work in cold water. Look for “cold water” labeled products to get the best results.
2. Pre-Treat Stains
- Spot-treat stains before washing, especially heavy soils or greasy patches. Let the detergent sit on the stain for a few minutes before adding clothes to the washer.
3. Don’t Overload the Washer
- Washing small to medium loads helps detergent and water circulate and clean more effectively.
4. Clean Your Machine Regularly
- Run hot water cleaning cycles monthly to prevent soap scum and mildew buildup.
5. Check the Fabric Labels
- Some clothes—like workout gear, baby clothes, or special construction fabrics—will specify their recommended wash temperatures. Always follow the label if you’re unsure.
6. Understand Your Water Temperature
- If your tap water goes below 60°F/15.5°C, stains, detergent dissolution, and germ removal may not be as effective. Consider bumping up to “cold” (the warmed up setting) during the coldest months.
Comparative Overview: Tap Cold vs. Cold Setting
| Setting | How It Works | When to Use | What to Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tap Cold | Uses water directly from tap (temperature varies with season/climate) | For brights, delicates, lightly soiled or everyday loads | Very dirty, stained, or heavy loads; coldest winter days; laundry with oils/grease |
| Cold | Slightly warms water (consistent, usually around 60°F/15.5°C) | Best when water is very cold, for powder detergent or moderately soiled clothes | Some delicate fabrics or colors sensitive to heat |
In Summary
Using the “tap cold” setting on your washing machine is a smart, modern option for most everyday laundry needs. This setting is ideal for washing bright colors, delicate items, and lightly soiled clothes, particularly if you want to save energy and protect your clothes. However, for heavy stains, whites, bedding, or during very cold months, you may want to choose the “cold” setting or warmer.
The secret is to match your wash settings to the type of laundry you have and your home’s seasonal water temperature. With a little attention to detergent choice, stain pre-treating, and fabric care, tap cold can become your energy-saving, wardrobe-protecting default.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What’s the difference between “tap cold” and “cold” on a washing machine?
“Tap cold” uses water straight from your tap with no warming, so its temperature changes with the weather. “Cold” can mix in a bit of hot water to stabilize the wash at around 60°F/15.5°C, making it more consistent year-round.
2. Is washing with tap cold water as effective as using warm or hot water?
For lightly soiled clothes and delicates, tap cold is usually effective. However, for sanitizing, removing heavy stains, or washing items like underwear or towels, warm or hot washes are better.
3. Are there any fabrics or garments I shouldn’t wash on tap cold?
Avoid washing heavily soiled garments, workwear, whites, and bedding in tap cold. For these, use at least the “cold” (warmed) setting, if not warmer, for better cleaning and hygiene.
4. What detergent should I use with tap cold water?
Choose a liquid or pod detergent labeled for cold water washing. Powders and general detergents may not dissolve fully in very cold water, leaving residue or reducing cleaning power.
5. Does using tap cold really save energy?
Yes! Most laundry energy use goes into heating water. By washing with tap cold, you significantly reduce your household’s energy consumption and cut down on utility costs.
By understanding and making the most of your washing machine’s “tap cold” setting, you can care for your clothes, save money, and take positive steps for the environment—all while keeping your laundry routine easy and effective.