The art of perfect laundry: washing machine settings explained
Are you guilty of always using the same washing machine setting, no matter what you’re washing? Whether you have a top loader or front load washer, your machine probably has a setting that’s ideally suited to the clothes, bed linen, towels or other fabrics you’re washing.
Understanding your washing machine settings
Doing laundry may seem like a simple task, but with the myriad settings available on modern washing machines, figuring out the best option for your clothes can be confusing. To unravel the mystery, the team at Appliances Online has put together this handy guide to common washing machine settings and how to use them effectively.
Regular/normal cycle
- This is the most common setting on washing machines, and it's perfect for sturdy fabrics like cotton, linen, and denim. The regular cycle uses a fast agitation and high speed spin, which is great for everyday clothes, from school uniforms to gym t-shirts.
Delicate cycle
- As the name suggests, this cycle is ideal for delicate items like silk blouses, lace lingerie, and cashmere knits that need a gentle wash. The delicate wash setting uses a slow agitation and low spin speed to gently clean your clothes without causing damage.
Hand wash cycle
- The hand wash cycle on a washing machine is designed for delicate fabrics that require even more gentle cleaning than the delicate cycle provides. This cycle uses slower agitation, cold water and lower spin speeds to protect fragile items.
Quick wash cycle
- If you're in a hurry, the quick wash cycle is your best friend. A speed wash uses high agitation and spin speeds to wash clothes that are only lightly soiled in less time. However, it's not recommended for noticeably dirty or delicate fabrics.
Heavy duty cycle
- For those stubborn food stains or heavily soiled work clothes, the heavy-duty cycle is the way to go. This setting uses a higher agitation and faster spin speed, along with extra rinse cycles. It also typically uses higher water temperatures, because hot or warm water can be more effective at deep cleaning by breaking down and removing grease, oils, and stubborn stains.
Permanent press cycle
- This setting is designed for synthetic fabrics and deeply coloured clothes to give a non-fade, wrinkle-free result. The permanent press cycle uses a medium agitation and spin speed, along with a cool down rinse to help reduce wrinkles.
Rinse and spin cycle
- If your clothes need a quick rinse or if you want to add fabric softener, the rinse and spin cycle is the perfect setting. This cycle only rinses and spins your clothes without agitation.
Bulky/sheets cycle
- This setting is designed for bulky items like blankets, comforters, and bed sheets. The bulky cycle uses a slow agitation and spin speed to ensure your large items get clean without causing damage.
Understanding the numerous washing machine cycles your washer is capable of can positively impact the longevity and appearance of your clothes. At Appliances Online, we offer a wide range of washing machines with various settings to cater to your laundry needs. Whether you're washing delicate silks or heavy-duty work clothes, we have the perfect appliance for you.
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