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Laundry is an inescapable part of our daily lives, but have you ever considered how clean your clothing is? While washing with soap and hot water may appear sufficient, some individuals turn to laundry sanitizers for extra protection.
But do we need laundry sanitizer, or is it another cleaning gimmick? In this post, we’ll look at the science behind laundry sanitizers, their advantages and disadvantages, and eventually answer, “Do you really need a laundry sanitizer?” So grab your detergent, and let’s get started.
What Exactly Is Laundry Sanitizer?
Laundry sanitizer is a substance that is intended to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other microbes found in laundry. These products often contain active substances that have been demonstrated to be effective for disinfecting surfaces and fabrics, such as chlorine bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or quaternary ammonium compounds.
While ordinary detergents and hot water are excellent at removing dirt and stains from clothing, they may not effectively eradicate all types of bacteria and viruses. This is especially critical if you have a sick family member, a weaker immune system, or work in a high-risk workplace like a hospital or laboratory.
When Should You Use Laundry Sanitizer?
When laundry touches germs and bacteria, sanitizer, also known as a disinfectant, is employed. For instance, if someone in the family has a stomach bug, a common cold, or another contagious disease.
It is essential for elderly and extremely young family members and anyone who is immunocompromised or has a weaker immune system for other reasons. Some professional activities expose people daily to germs and microorganisms. Of course, hospital staff are at risk, but so are nursing home employees, veterinarians, nursery workers, plumbers, and housekeepers.
Is Laundry Sanitizer Required?
Many individuals hesitate to use laundry sanitizer, asking if it is essential for laundry to smell clean and fresh. The quick answer is that you are not required to utilize these products. On its alone, laundry detergent is perfectly capable of sanitizing laundry. It works by building a link with dirt and grime and aiding in their breakdown in the wash. Our environmentally friendly laundry detergent dissolves in warm water and penetrates garments deeply without harsh chemicals.
Washing sanitizer can be used as an extra germ-fighting strategy, although it isn’t required for most washing tasks. Instead, prioritize high-quality eco-friendly laundry products and excellent laundering habits, such as washing items before they become too unclean or stinky. You can keep your clothes clean without using laundry sanitizer every time if you use the appropriate detergents and methods.
Is Laundry Sanitizer Harmful To Clothes?
Many laundry cleaning enthusiasts are perplexed about whether or not laundry sanitizer harms garments. The truth is that it all depends on the type of sanitizer you use. Some strong disinfectants can be too harsh and damage sensitive materials.
Before using a new chemical cleaner, carefully read the product label since some textiles, such as silk or rayon, should never be subjected to particular chemicals. When testing new solutions, keep an eye out for discomfort indicators, like discoloration or texture changes, as this could indicate that a sure sanitizer isn’t safe for use on your garments.
Difference Between Detergent And Laundry Sanitizer
Laundry sanitizer and detergent are two distinct items that serve specific functions in the laundry process. Detergent is a cleaning solution that removes dirt, stains, and odors from garments. Surfactants and other compounds in it aid in the breakdown and removal of dirt and grime from clothes.
Enzymes and other chemicals in detergents may help brighten colors or eliminate specific stains. In contrast, laundry sanitizer is a product that is intended to eliminate germs, viruses, and other microbes that may be present in clothing.
While detergent can remove dirt and stains from clothing, it may not be effective against all bacteria and viruses. Laundry sanitizers often contain active substances proven effective at disinfecting surfaces and fabrics, such as chlorine bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or quaternary ammonium compounds.
While detergent and laundry sanitizer serve distinct functions, they can be used in tandem during the laundry process. Clean your garments first with soap, then add laundry sanitizer to the wash cycle to destroy any leftover bacteria or viruses.
Laundry Sanitizer Safe Or Not
Laundry sanitizers are generally safe to use in the laundry when used according to the directions. They are intended to eliminate germs and other microbes that may be present in your laundry, which is especially crucial for things that come into direct contact with your skin, such as towels, bedding, and clothing.
However, like with any product, it is critical to follow the instructions and use laundry sanitizers as suggested carefully. Because certain laundry sanitizers may include strong chemicals or irritants, it is crucial to use gloves and avoid skin and eye contact when applying them. Keep laundry sanitizers out of the reach of children and pets, and avoid using them excessively or unnecessarily.
Laundry Sanitizer: Safe For Babies Or Not
When used correctly, laundry sanitizers can be safe for newborns. However, first, check the product label for any warnings or precautions, and then carefully follow the directions. Some laundry sanitizers may include harsh chemicals or irritants that can be hazardous to newborns, particularly those with delicate skin.
In these circumstances, it’s best to use a hand sanitizer made expressly for baby garments and bedding, as these are often formulated to be softer on sensitive skin.
When using a laundry sanitizer on baby products, thoroughly rinse them to remove any sanitizer residue that may irritate the baby’s skin. Furthermore, wash baby goods separately from regular laundry and avoid using fabric softeners or other agents that may leave a residue on the materials.
Laundry Sanitizer Work In Cold Water
Laundry sanitizers work best in hot water since higher temperatures help to kill more germs and other microbes. Some laundry sanitizers, however, are designed to operate in cold water, and their efficiency varies depending on the product. When using a laundry sanitizer in cold water, carefully follow the instructions and use the necessary amount of product.
When used in cold water, some laundry sanitizers may require a longer soaking period or a higher product concentration to achieve the same disinfection as in hot water. While hard water may not be as efficient as hot water at killing bacteria and other germs, it can nevertheless assist in removing dirt and other particles from clothing and other fibers. If you’re worried about germs in your laundry, consider using hot water and laundry sanitizer for the most effective disinfection.
How To Use Laundry Sanitizer
Although chlorine bleach has long been used to disinfect laundry and other hard surfaces, its application is restricted to whites and colorfast fabrics. Laundry sanitizer can be used on whites and colors and in water ranging from very hot to cold.
Add two sanitizer capfuls to one detergent capful in your washing machine’s fabric softener compartment or directly into the rinse water. Avoid putting it directly on your skin. When using laundry sanitizer, do not use bleach or additional fabric softener. Disinfectants are effective in all temperatures, but hot is better if the clothing can withstand it.
Bath towels, bedding, sheets, and pillowcases may generally be cleaned in the hottest water your machine offers, around 165 degrees. Don’t mix laundry sanitizer with anything else. Instead, use the recommended amount of detergent and sanitizer, typically found in the fabric softener compartment or the bleach dispenser of coin-operated washers. Dry your laundry on the hottest setting on your dryer that will not harm your clothes.
FAQ
Is Laundry Sanitizer Preferable To Fabric Softener?
Unlike fabric softeners, which hide odors, Lysol Laundry Sanitizer destroys microorganisms that cause residual odors. It’s also gentle enough to use on sensitive goods like bedding, towels, sportswear, and children’s clothes, and it leaves materials smelling like fresh, clean laundry.
Is Laundry Sanitizer Safe To Use On Clothes?
Laundry sanitizers may be what you’re looking for to make your clothes more sanitary. This solution works by killing bacteria and viruses that may be present on your clothing, eradicating odors, and leaving your garments smelling fresh and clean.
Is Laundry Sanitizer The Same As Bleach?
Lysol Laundry Sanitizer is a specially developed ingredient that kills 99.9% of bacteria left behind. Mix a few drops of Lysol Laundry Sanitizer into your rinse cycle. It contains no bleach and may be used in cold water, making it suitable for most fabrics, including whites, colors, and darks.
Closing Thoughts
Using a laundry sanitizer can help eliminate bacteria and other germs in your laundry, which is especially crucial during times when cleanliness and hygiene are more vital than ever. However, using the product appropriately and attentively following the directions is critical to achieve the best effects.
If you don’t have a laundry sanitizer or choose not to use one, try hot water, vinegar, baking soda, aromatic oils, and sunlight as alternatives. After reading the above article, you can clearly understand “Do You Really Need a Laundry Sanitizer?“