If you have clothes to wash, you need to know the difference between the various washing cycles. By using the wrong washing cycle, you can wear out your clothes far faster than is necessary. You may also ruin some clothes that aren’t made for washing on certain cycles. By using the right washing cycles, you can extend the life of your clothes and keep them in better condition. You can also save time and money by using the shortest cycle that will work with your clothing type.

Short Cycle Wash
Most washing machines have a short cycle wash. This short cycle is a good way to wash clothes that are only slightly dirty or that have a lot of embellishments on them that should be washed gently. It’s good to use slow cycles as well for these types of clothing. A long, vigorous wash wears down the fibers of clothing. If you are washing a delicate fabric, use the short cycle and use cold water. If you are washing cotton and you are trying to avoid shrinkage, use the short cycle on cold as well.

Regular Wash Cycle
The regular wash cycle will agitate the clothing and spin it at a faster rate of speed than the shorter cycle. The regular wash cycle is good to use on clothes that are very dirty or that are thick and sturdy. The regular cycle works well with jeans, t-shirts, coats, bedding and any other items that don’t need any delicate treatment. Clothing that is very dirty or that has a bad smell is also in need of the regular wash cycle.

Permanent Press Cycle
The permanent press cycle is a cycle that is a bit easier on fabrics. For many average loads with clothing that is not extra dirty, the permanent press washing cycle is a good choice. This washing cycle cools clothes before they entered the spinning cycle. This is what prevents certain fabrics from getting creased or wrinkled during the washing process. It is particularly effective with synthetic fabrics and permanent press items. Clothing that is advertised as wrinkle-resistant should be washed in a permanent press cycle. For loads full of moderately dirty clothes that do not have foul smells, the permanent press cycle will play them without any unnecessary wear to the fabric.

Delicate Washing Cycle
For many fabrics, the delicate washing cycle is the only one that will work well. There are many items that are simply not made to be washed in a washing machine. There are some silks that are dry clean only, as are some items that are embellished with a lot of sequins or other items. However, there are many delicate items that can be washed in the delicate cycle. Items such as lingerie, items with a lot of lace, very delicate lightweight items, and fabrics that are loosely woven are all perfect for the delicate washing cycle. With delicate items, use cold water and a delicate detergent. This cycle washes clothing more gently with slower agitation and spinning. It is the closest thing to hand washing that is possible with a washing machine.