Laundry tips to keep germs, bacteria at bay

There’s no doubt that the current coronavirus has raised our collective sensitivity to distancing ourselves from germs and bacteria. From frequent hand sanitizer use to disinfectant wipes, we’re doing what we can in and outside the house. Adopting a similar approach in the laundry certainly expands that prudent approach. Speed Queen has you covered in this realm.

Our front load washer models offer a Sanitize Cycle that works in tandem with an Oxi additive. The Sanitize Cycle is programmed to wash clothing with an Oxi additive and detergent to remove 99.9 percent of bacteria found in home laundry applications. The cycle is approved by National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) International.

To ensure the cycle is used properly the user should add the appropriate portion of Oxi into the bottom of the tub before clothes are loaded. Clothing should then be loaded into the washer with the recommended portion of detergent. The user should also check hot water inlet for a minimum 120-degree temperature for proper results. With proper use, the Sanitize Cycle will effectively remove most bacteria from a home laundry load.

As we all know the secret to killing bacteria and other nastiness is hot water – the hotter the better. One advantage Speed Queen top load washers have over the competition is, when you select a hot water wash, you get exactly that. Where others give you a mixture of hot and cold, we give you true hot water. How hot? As hot as it comes out of your water heater. According to the World Health Organization, temperatures of 140 to 150 F are enough to kill most viruses. Again, test your hot water heater temperature to identify its germ-killing level.

The global coronavirus pandemic has affected various aspects of daily life and laundry is now more important than ever. While we are facing an unprecedented situation, we want you to know that you’re not alone. Our aim is to provide you with up-to-date information and tips so you can take care of your family and remain as healthy as possible.