Today’s washing machines have a lot of sophisticated cycles and settings that may not be self-explanatory to the average user. So, here’s a quick guide to what some of those mysterious cycles do, and when you should use them. 

Cleaning Variables to Consider

Each wash cycle has its own unique combination of three variables:

• Cycle length
• Spin speed/agitation
• Water temperature

The material of your items, their soil level, and their size will all determine which type of cycle you use. 

Delicate/Gentle

Quick description: short cycle time, low spin, cold water.

This cycle is meant for lightweight or sheer fabrics, sweaters, blouses, dress pants, and anything else that requires a gentle touch. If you’re unsure about a specific garment, the care instructions on the tag will let you know if it requires the delicate/gentle cycle. 

Rinse & Spin

Quick description: extra rinse without detergent.

You can add this cycle to a regular wash cycle if your garments need extra rinsing, or you can use it as a stand-alone cycle for garments that don’t require detergent (for example, bathing suits). You can use this with any water temperature and spin speed.

Permanent Press

Quick description: medium cycle time, medium-to-low spin, warm water.

Use the permanent press cycle for clothes in which you want to prevent wrinkles. You’ll want to wash your professional office clothes on this cycle. 

Heavy Duty

Quick description: long cycle time, high spin, hot water.

For items that are heavily soiled and/or ultra-durable, wash them on the heavy duty cycle. They’ll get extra agitation, hot water, and an overall intense clean. Large bath towels and yardwork clothes are a good match for this cycle. 

Bulky/Bedding

Quick description: medium cycle time, medium-to-low spin, warm water.

Sheets, blankets, comforters, and coats are best washed on the bulky/bedding cycle. The washer will fill up with extra water to sufficiently soak your bulky items without spinning too aggressively.