Are you a ‘green’ person who likes to wash your clothes in the ‘Eco’ mode and save energy? Well, think again!

Fungal infections are extremely common. Athlete’s foot, Jock itch, Tinea infections, Pityriasis versicolor, Onychomycosis etc are various skin diseases caused by fungi.

Treatment of these diseases is relatively easy, with various antifungals, topical and systemic.

However, recurrent infections are often a problem and the infection can spread between person’s living in the same household. If you are a fan of washing your clothes in the ‘Eco’ mode in your washing machine, then think again. This might be a reason for recurrent infections.

A recent study published in the International Journal of Dermatology suggests that fungi survive when socks from patients with athlete’s foot are washed in the ‘Eco’ mode at 40 degrees celsius or less. A minimum temperature of 60 degrees is required to kill fungi living on socks of infected patients.

I am a fan of using the Eco mode myself and therefore do not suggest that everyone stops using the Eco mode completely. However, if you or anyone in your family does suffer from a fungal infection, the ‘eco’ mode is probably not for you.

If you suffer from a fungal infection yourself- Click here to see how an Online Dermatology Consultation would help you.