Green Tip
You can still achieve excellent cleaning in cold water, and there are now new detergents that are specially designed for cold water washing. Try switching your detergent to one for cold water such as "Tide Coldwater" or other similar products from the many detergent manufacturers (this is not a recommendation for a specific brand or product). These products are designed to dissolve in cold water.
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Note:
It is important to add your detergent to the water and allow it to dissolve BEFORE adding your clothes to the washing machine.
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Energy Conservation
80-90% of the energy used in doing the wash is used to heat the water. Cold water laundry is a great way to save energy and save money, and still get your clothes clean!
Germs
Warm water or hot water may still be recommend for diapers, and for short-term use when it's necessary to avoid transferring a severe bacterial or a viral illness through a household. Wash suspect laundry separately so that the rest of your family's laundry can continue in cold water. (Note: Proctor & Gamble says "Many germs that would normally be washed away in hot water will still be removed in cold water..." )
