Most modern washing machines include an Eco wash (or Eco mode) cycle, but lots of us wren’t quite sure what it does. Does Eco mode save electricity? And what does "Eco 40-60" actually mean?
In this guide, we'll explain exactly what an Eco wash is, how it works and when Eco mode is worth using. We'll also look at whether an Eco wash can really help you save money on your energy bills and highlight some of the best energy-efficient washing machines available today.
What does Eco wash mean on a washing machine?
Eco wash (or Eco mode) is a washing machine programme designed to reduce energy and water consumption while still giving your clothes a thorough clean.
Every wash cycle balances three key things: Temperature, water use and wash duration. With an Eco wash, the machine typically uses lower water temperatures, less water and a longer wash time.
It might seem strange that a longer cycle can use less energy, but lots of energy goes into heating water. And Eco wash washes at lower temperatures. So instead the extra time is mostly spent doing things that use relatively little electricity: soaking, tumbling the drum slowly and allowing detergent more time to work. It may take longer, but Eco wash is all about doing everything else very efficiently.
For everyday laundry that's lightly or moderately soiled, Eco mode is a great go-to cycle.
What does Eco 40-60 mean?
Eco 40-60 is an energy-saving wash cycle for cotton clothes that are normally washed at either 40°C or 60°C.
That’s the bit that some people find confusing. The name doesn't tell you the temperature of the wash. Instead, it indicates the types of fabrics the programme is designed to clean.
The machine uses a combination of lower temperatures and longer wash times to reduce energy consumption while still delivering good cleaning results.
Eco vs. normal wash: which should you use?
Both programmes have their place. The best choice depends on how dirty your laundry is and whether saving time or saving energy matters most.
| Feature | Eco wash | Normal wash |
|---|---|---|
| Energy usage | Lower | Higher |
| Water usage | Lower | Higher |
| Cycle length | Longer | Shorter |
| Wash temperature | Usually lower | Usually higher |
| Best for | Everyday laundry | Heavily soiled laundry |
| Running costs | Lower | Higher |
| Cleaning performance | Great for regular washing | Better for stubborn stains |
| Main advantage | Energy and water savings | Faster cleaning |
| Main drawback | Longer cycle times | Higher energy consumption |
For most day-to-day washes, Eco mode is a great choice. However, if you've got muddy sports kit or a large load that needs cleaning quickly, a standard programme is probably a better pick.
Best Eco and energy-saving washing machines
An energy-efficient washing machine can help you make the most of Eco mode while keeping running costs down. Here are a few features worth looking for:
High energy-efficiency ratings
Automatic load sensing
Smart energy monitoring
Advanced low-temperature cleaning technology
Dedicated Eco 40-60 programmes
Samsung Series 5 AI Energy
Best for: smart energy management
Pros: AI Energy mode helps reduce energy use by up to 70%*, ecobubble technology cleans at lower temperatures, 15-minute quick wash
Con: Cycle length up to 228 minutes
This 9 kg machine uses Samsung’s ecobubble technology to mix air, water and detergent for effective cleaning at cooler temperatures. The SmartThings app lets you monitor and cut energy use.
*Based on internal testing on the WW11BB944AGB model on a Cotton 40 degrees wash with the AI Energy Mode turned on compared to not using AI Energy Mode.
Beko EnergySpin
Best for: Value buyers
Pros: £405 energy saving, 14-minute super quick wash, RecycledTub made from recycled plastic bottles
Con: Slightly noisier (in decibels) than other models on this list
If you’re after a best eco washing machine on a budget, this Beko is a great choice. EnergySpin uses clever drum movements to dissolve detergent more effectively, saving energy on everyday cycles. The RecycledTub, made from recycled bottles, is a nice touch too.
LG Series 4 AI Direct Drive
Best for: Families looking to cut energy use
Pros: A energy rating, Large 10 kg drum, AI fabric care
Con: Eco cycles aren't the quickest
This LG Series 4 proves that bigger washing machines can still be energy efficient. The A-rated design helps reduce running costs, while the 10 kg capacity is ideal for larger households looking to wash more at once. It also uses AI Direct Drive technology to tailor drum movements to different fabrics, helping clothes last longer and reducing the need to replace them as often.
The eco setting on your washing machine is a simple way to cut energy and water bills without sacrificing cleaning power. Just remember it’s best for everyday loads. For more laundry know-how, check out our guide to washing machine symbols, or if you’re ready to upgrade, our washing machine buying guide can help.
FAQs
Does an Eco wash save money?
Yes. A lower temperature wash uses between 35–59% less energy than a hot wash, meaning less electricity and lower bills. You’ll also use less water, so your water bill drops too.
Does an Eco wash use less water?
Yes, eco mode can reduce water usage by up to 40% compared to a standard wash. The machine uses less water and relies on a longer cycle to achieve the same results at a lower temperature.
Why does an Eco wash take so long?
Because eco mode uses cooler water, it needs more time to clean effectively. Heating water accounts for around 90% of a washing machine’s energy use, so washing for longer at a lower temperature saves energy even though the cycle takes more time.
Does the Eco setting on a washing machine save electricity?
Yes. The eco setting uses lower temperatures and less water, directly reducing electricity consumption. The trade-off is a longer wash, but the energy savings from not heating water as much far outweigh the power used by the longer cycle.
What temperature does Eco 40-60 wash at?
Eco 40-60 doesn’t wash at a single fixed temperature. It’s an efficiency standard that means the machine can clean both 40°C and 60°C labelled items in the same cycle. The actual wash temperature is typically lower, around 30–40°C.
