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Is UV light safe for clothes and fabric care?
Washing machines that utilize ultraviolet light, specifically UV-C light, help reduce bacteria in the wash. Explore which loads may benefit from UV light washing, then get clear answers to common questions about how UV light affects different fabrics.
What is UV light wash?
UV light wash is a feature on some washers, like the industry-first UV Clean Technology featured in this Whirlpool® Front Load Laundry Tower, that uses built-in UV-C light during select cycles to help reduce bacteria in the wash water. Working alongside detergent, water and agitation, UV light penetrates and damages bacteria’s DNA, adding an extra layer of freshness without relying on additional chemicals or high heat.
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Types of fabric that are suitable for UV light wash
UV light wash settings help reduce bacteria without high heat or harsh chemicals. This makes it a suitable option for clothes that tend to trap bacteria but can’t handle frequent, traditional sanitizing cycles or harsh additives. It’s also a great option for loads that fare better in a cold water wash. Learn more about ideal load types for UV washing below.
1. Towels and bath mats
Towels are used often and tend to stay damp, which can encourage bacteria growth. Using UV light in your wash can help reduce bacteria in the wash for items like towels and help enhance regular washing practices for a complete clean.
2. Bedding
Your sheets can collect sweat and oils night after night, allowing buildup to happen fast. UV light in your wash can add bacteria-fighting benefits in the wash, working alongside your Bedding or Bulky cycle to keep your bedding feeling clean and fresh.
3. Activewear
Workout clothes are magnets for sweat, oils and odors, especially in tight synthetic fibers. UV cleaning cycles help reduce bacteria in the wash water, working with your detergent as it lifts away sweat and leaves your gear ready for your next workout.
4. Darks and colors
Cool wash water can help prevent bold and bright colored clothing from bleeding into the wash water. Though sanitizing with hot water isn’t ideal for these cycles, UV light cleaning can help reduce bacteria in colored loads without relying on high heat.
Shop Whirlpool® Washers with UV Clean Technology
Industry-first UV Clean Technology on select Whirlpool® Washers reduces bacteria1 in the wash without requiring high temperatures or chemicals. When selected, a bright blue light signals the UV technology is working to tackle the bacteria in the water, giving your clothes a deep clean while keeping fabric care in mind.
UV light and clothes FAQs
UV light options are designed to work in tandem with familiar laundry steps. Discover answers to common questions below to help you understand how UV technology can fit into your routine and what to expect from your washer.
Can UV light wash penetrate jeans?
UV light wash cycles primarily work to reduce bacteria in the wash water itself, which then moves through fabrics like jeans during the cycle.
Can I wear my clothing immediately after the UV wash is complete?
Yes, clothes can be worn after the cycle finishes and you’ve dried your clothing. UV light is activated during the wash process and—because it isn’t a chemical treatment—doesn’t leave residue behind. Your garments can come out of the washer ready to dry and wear as usual.
Can detergent choice have any effect on UV light wash for clothing?
No, detergent (used correctly) shouldn’t interfere with the UV cleaning cycle. Choosing the right detergent for your load helps maximize overall cleaning performance. Consult your washer owner’s manual for more information on which type of detergent may be best for your laundry loads.
Does UV light cause fading in some clothing?
While UV wash settings can vary by make, the UV Clean wash setting on select Whirlpool® Washers is designed to provide indirect UV exposure to clothing by reducing bacteria in the wash water itself, making it gentle on fabrics. Because it doesn’t rely on high heat or harsh chemicals, UV light cycles on these washers can also help minimize the wear and fading that can come with more intensive cleaning methods.
Does UV washing affect sun protection clothing?
While UV washing doesn’t specifically affect the sun protection on clothing, washing this type of clothing using traditional methods may damage its sun-protective properties over time. Water, detergent and wash action can gradually wear down the special finish that helps block UV rays, so it’s best to follow care instructions closely.
Shop all Whirlpool® Washers
Find the right settings and options for any load when you take on laundry day with a Whirlpool® Washer. Select Whirlpool® Washing Machines feature Intelligent Wash, which uses sensors to detect load size and fabric type, then automatically adjusts water levels, temperature and wash actions for ideal fabric care and effective cleaning performance.
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1. Available on select cycles. Bacteria tested include Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
