What temperature must water be at for laundering soiled towels and linens?

Laundering soiled towels and linens effectively requires maintaining a high temperature to ensure that bacteria, germs, and other pathogens are eliminated. The correct temperature for laundering these items is typically around 160 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, many harmful microbes are killed, ensuring that towels and linens are sanitized properly for use.

The choice of 160 degrees Fahrenheit is supported by industry standards recommended by health organizations, which emphasize the importance of using high temperatures in settings such as salons and spas where hygiene is paramount. This practice helps to prevent the spread of infections and maintain a clean environment for both staff and clients.

Lower temperatures, such as 140 degrees Fahrenheit or 120 degrees Fahrenheit, may not be sufficient to achieve the same level of disinfection. While hot water at these temperatures can clean to some extent, they may not adequately eliminate all pathogens, especially in environments where towels and linens are heavily soiled.

On the other hand, water that reaches 180 degrees Fahrenheit, while effective for sterilization, can potentially damage certain fabric types if they are not rated for such high temperatures. Therefore, 160 degrees Fahrenheit strikes a balance between effective sanitation and protecting the integrity of the materials being laundered.