Helping the environment and saving money, all from your laundry room? That's the promise of cold-water washing. While those benefits are enticing, it's important to know when cold-water washing works. Here are some suggestions for how to decide between cold and hot washing.

Jan 26, 2023 · “Washing in cold water can help slow fading of colors and shrinking in fabrics,” says Stephen Hettinger, director of engineering in washer systems at GE Appliances. “Testing shows that warm water or hot water helps accelerate fading in darker colors.”

The Cold Water Saves Initiative educates about the benefits of cold water washing, a sustainable action that greatly benefits the environment with little effort on the individual’s part. What's in it for me?

Dec 18, 2024 · Wondering if you can wash all your laundry in cold water to save energy? We explain the top reasons to wash clothes in cold—and when warm or hot water is better.

Washing in cold water helps reduce fabric shedding and decreases the amount of microfibers that enter our ecosystem from laundry. You can also wash clothes on a shorter cycle and wash less often to help combat microfiber pollution.

Sep 26, 2024 · Cold-water washing reduces wear and tear on clothes, too, which helps them last longer. The benefits go beyond longevity, though. Keeping clothing intact means fewer synthetic microfibers released into our wastewater, and ultimately, the oceans.

Mar 13, 2025 · Cold water is more gentle on fabric fibers, dyes, and helps prevent some stains from becoming permanently set on clothes. "Our research has shown that hot water causes fabric shrinkage, fading and color loss, and premature deterioration," says Zach Pozniak.

Joining forces to drive next impactful eco-habit: washing in cold. Tide and WWF have an answer for the 3 in 4 Americans who say they are looking for more ways to save energy in their daily lives*: “wash your laundry in cold water.”

May 23, 2024 · Washing laundry in cold water helps preserve fabric quality, extending the lifespan of garments by avoiding shrinkage and fading. Opting for cold water wash cycles leads to significant energy savings, lower utility expenses, and reduced environmental impact.

Got laundry? Ditch the warm water cycle and see how switching to a cold water wash helps you save money, reduces your carbon footprint, and keeps your clothes looking their best for longer.