# Laundry energy efficiency and hygiene guidance > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/laundry-energy-efficiency-and-hygiene-guidance > Updated: 2026-09-12T06:00:00.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2. Energy and laundry experts have provided guidance on optimizing washing machine usage to reduce electricity consumption and maintain clothing hygiene. Initial recommendations from energy advisor Iván Terrón emphasized that heating water is the most energy-intensive part of the process. He suggested that using cold water cycles can reduce energy consumption by up to 90% per cycle while minimizing wear on fabrics. He also advised waiting for full loads and using energy efficiency labels when purchasing new appliances. Subsequent expert advice expanded on these practices by balancing energy savings with hygiene requirements. Specialists noted that washing lightly soiled clothes at 20 or 30 degrees Celsius can be significantly more economical than the standard 40-degree setting, potentially using half the energy. To ensure effectiveness at lower temperatures, they recommended extending washing times or using stain removers for heavily soiled items. Hygiene guidelines specified that items such as underwear, socks, and sportswear should be washed after every use. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-12: Laundry experts advise on hygiene and energy efficiency Experts recommend washing underwear and sportswear after every use for hygiene, while suggesting lower temperatures (20-30°C) and longer cycles to save energy and protect fabrics. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/laundry-experts-advise-on-hygiene-and-energy-efficiency ### 2026-08-30: Energy advisor recommends cold water washing to cut electricity use Energy advisor Iván Terrón states that washing clothes in cold water can reduce electricity consumption by up to 90% and minimize garment wear. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/energy-advisor-recommends-cold-water-washing-to-cut-electricity-use --- Cite as: Laundry energy efficiency and hygiene guidance. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/laundry-energy-efficiency-and-hygiene-guidance