Think of your washing machine as a tiny, stubborn soldier in the war on dirt. The main risk in a boil advisory is bacteria like E. coli or giardia lurking in the tap water.
But here’s the good news: most laundry cycles use hot water and detergent. Heat is a germ’s worst enemy—it’s like sending them to a sauna made of fire.
Your machine’s hot cycle typically reaches 140°F (60°C). That’s hot enough to kill most nasties, even if the water itself is a little questionable.
What About Cold Water Washes?
Okay, you’re a cold-water devotee? I see you, saving the planet and your electricity bill. But during a boil advisory, cold water is a bit of a gamble.
If you use cold water, the bacteria from the tap might survive. Think of it as giving them a refreshing, germ-filled bath. Not ideal for your underwear.
Pro tip: If you must use cold, add a disinfectant like chlorine bleach (if safe for the fabric) or a laundry sanitizer. It’s like putting a bouncer at the door of your washing machine.
