Purchasing clothing is an investment, regardless of whether it’s a comfy t-shirt for lounging around the home or a dressier item for an occasion. Making sure you wash your clothes in the appropriate cycle is one of the greatest methods to take care of them. But how can you be sure that you’re making the right decision? Even if every washing machine is a little bit different, you can choose the right cycle each time you do your laundry by using the advice below.
Go Over the Label
According to Lindsay Droz and Kristi Lord, co-founders of L’Avant Collective, an eco-luxury line of cleaning and laundry supplies, most clothing labels specify the appropriate washing cycle. According to Droz, “Always check the care instructions for your garment, bedding, and delicates before choosing which cycle for the laundry machine.”
If you recently bought the item new and find the care instructions for the clothing difficult to see (small labels, remember?), the information ought to be available on the brand’s website.
To ensure you’re selecting the correct cycle even if you can’t read the label but are aware of the garment’s material, consult our fabric care guide.
For the most part, the normal cycle is your best option.
Most of your laundry, including bedding, towels, socks, pajamas, and t-shirts, should be done on the regular cycle. If your machine is recent, though, it might offer a cotton or bedding cycle. If so, pick the appropriate cycle for your clothes or linens.
Think About Using a Pre-Wash
Certain things require a little extra care. “Most washing machines allow you to select a longer cycle and some even offer a pre-wash cycle if the item is really dirty,” according to Lord. This will help release dirt by soaking the item before the cycle starts. This is a fantastic option for bedding that was prone to spills or accidents, clothes that were really hot at the gym, or soiled gardening gear. Certain food stains may also be lifted with the use of a prewash cycle.
Upgrade to a heavy-duty cycle if your laundry is particularly solid, like a towel you used to wipe up a pet accident.
The Cycle of Cold Water
Washing clothing in cold water almost always results in success. It’s kinder to your clothes and your electricity costs. For things that require a little additional care, this is also the greatest option. According to Droz, “cold water washes are great for items that need a little more gentle touch and may be prone to shrinking.” “To care for the fibers and minimize any changes in the textiles, it is advisable to wash wool, cashmere, fine knits, and delicates in cold water.”
Permanent Press: What Is It?
Do you dress in polyester or rayon-type synthetic fabrics? Alternatively, do you own any items—like button-down shirts—that, no matter what you do, constantly seem wrinkled? It is recommended that you utilize the permanent press cycle. This cycle rinses with cool water after washing in warmer (often hot) water. Except for lingerie and really delicate items, the majority of things can be cleaned in the permanent press cycle.
With The Delicate Cycle, you can never go wrong.
The delicate cycle is a safe choice if you’re still unclear about which cycle to utilize. This cycle helps to prolong the life of your threads in their best condition because it is the least taxing on your clothes. Dry your clothes on low or delicate settings, or even better, hang them up to air dry, if you want to be even kinder to them.
