Washing machines could support skin health for First Nations people – if we get the wash settings right
Doing a load of laundry involves lots of decisions – from which cycle to choose to what detergent to use. These choices may seem like simple personal preferences. But in communities where skin and other infections are common, doing laundry is often part of medical advice. Washing clothes and bedding is widely recommended to help control skin and other infections. However, we haven’t known which wash settings are needed to kill or remove pathogens found on fabrics. How hot? Fo
Researchers are investigating how specific laundry practices can serve as a medical intervention to combat skin infections in First Nations communities. A systematic review reveals that washing fabrics at a minimum of 60°C for at least 15 minutes is the most effective method for eliminating harmful pathogens. However, many standard washing machines and household water systems cannot reach these temperatures due to safety regulations and equipment limitations. Furthermore, the high energy costs associated with heating water and using dryers pose a significant barrier for many families. Scientists are now exploring whether specialized detergents containing activated oxygen bleach might offer a viable alternative for cold-water sanitation. Ultimately, establishing standardized, accessible laundry protocols could play a crucial role in reducing the prevalence of serious health conditions like rheumatic heart disease.
This research addresses a critical public health gap by identifying practical laundry solutions to help mitigate severe skin infections and systemic health inequalities in marginalized communities.
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