We are all trying to be more environmentally friendly, from making sure we recycle correctly to using out-of-peak hours for our large appliances. So, it makes sense to know how to use your appliances in the most efficient way possible.
In this TechTalk, we’ll explain what an eco wash is on your washing machine, how it works and why you should use it. For specifics on your own washing machine, always check the manual, but here is a quick overview to familiarise you with eco mode.
What does eco wash mean on a washing machine?
The eco wash setting on your washing machine is all about using less water and energy, which, in the long run, saves you money on your bills.
Wash modes have three components:
Temperature
Water
Time
With an eco wash, your machine uses less water and a lower temperature than other wash programs. Due to the lower temperature, an eco wash cycle then has a longer run time to get the same results as a standard cycle.
Did you know? 90% of a washing machine’s energy consumption comes from heating up the water.
Eco 40-60 wash
Wondering which program is the eco wash? Easy peasy! Just look for ‘Eco 40-60’. This is a regulated cycle name that is common across the majority of washing machine models.
It cleans clothes, generally cotton clothes, at 40°C or 60°C. It uses less water and energy than a standard cotton cycle by having longer soak times and using less electricity to heat the water. The spin cycles are also extended to make sure the clothes get a thorough wash.
To get the most out of an Eco 40-60 wash, only fill the drum to 70-80% and avoid overloading so the clothes have plenty of space to move around in the wash.
Eco wash vs normal wash
Eco wash is energy-efficient because it uses less energy to heat water, but the cycles run for longer. A normal wash is great when you need a higher temperature to tackle difficult or stubborn stains. Which cycle should you use? It depends on the specific load of washing, but here’s a quick comparison of the two cycle types:
| Eco wash | Normal Wash | |
|---|---|---|
| Water temperature | Lower (often cold or <30°C) | Warmer (40°C -- 60°C) |
| Cycle length | Longer (2-4 hours) | Shorter (1-1.5 hours) |
| Water usage | Lower | Higher |
| Best for | Lightly soiled, everyday clothes | Heavily soiled clothes |
| Fabric care | Gentler on fabrics thanks to low heat | Harsher on delicate fabrics |
Best eco and energy-saving washing machines
Looking for a new washing machine? We have a wide range of energy-efficient A-rated washing machines that have programs and technology to ensure your machine runs as efficiently as possible.
Hoover Pro Wash Series 5 Washing Machine
The Hoover Pro Wash Series 5 washing machine has an array of programs to wash at a lower temperature and uses roughly 44 litres of water per cycle, making it an efficient choice. It has a large capacity 10kg drum, ideal for busy households, with 8 quick wash cycles when you need clothes in a pinch.
Hisense 5S Series Washing Machine
The Hisense 5S Series washing machine saves energy, money and detergent! It has an Auto Dosing feature which dispenses the exact amount of detergent for your wash, while the Delay End feature means you can take advantage of off-peak energy, even while you sleep! It has a 40-60°C Eco wash and even has cycles that go as low as 20°C.
Samsung Series 8 SpaceMax Washing Machine
The Samsung Series 8 SpaceMax washing machine has Bubble Soak and Ecobubble technology to mix air, water and detergent to create bubbles to soak your clothes and wash at a lower temperature. When used with the SmartThings app, you can use AI Energy Mode to reduce your machine’s energy use by up to 70%!
Your dream energy-efficient washing machine awaits! If you’d like to learn more about choosing the right washing machine, check out our washing machine buying guide or get ready for the install with our guide on how to install a washing machine yourself.
FAQs
Does an Eco wash save money?
In the long run, yes. It washes your clothes at a lower temperature, thus needing less energy to heat water. A lower-temperature wash uses between 35% and 50% less energy than a hot wash, which is substantial!
How long does an Eco wash take?
An eco wash can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your machine and the size of the load. Because of the lower temperature, the washing machine stretches out the cycle time, so the friction of the clothes and detergent have longer to work together to get everything clean.
What does Eco 40-60 mean on a washing machine?
Eco 40-60 is a regulated cycle on washing machines. It’s an eco-friendly, energy-saving cycle which washes a mixed load of clothes that would normally be washed at 40°C or 60°C, at a much lower temperature.
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