Which water temperature is preferred for washing contaminated clothing?

Using hot water is preferred for washing contaminated clothing because it effectively kills a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses that may be present on the fabric. Hot water also aids in dissolving detergents more effectively and removes oils and grime better than cold or warm water.

When dealing with contaminated clothing, ensuring that the water is at a sufficiently high temperature enhances the cleaning process and minimizes the risk of spreading contaminants. It's important to check care labels on clothing items, as not all fabrics can withstand high temperatures, but for items that can, hot water is the most effective choice.

While warm water can be effective for some cleaning tasks and cold water is gentler, they do not achieve the same level of sanitation that hot water provides. Any temperature may not necessarily ensure the removal of all contaminants, which can lead to potential health risks. Thus, choosing hot water for contaminated clothing is a sanitary best practice.