Modern washing machines are equipped with dozens of programs designed to optimize the process of removing dirt from different types of fabric.
Their correct use allows you to achieve impeccable cleanliness without compromising their quality and color.
Read the article about what washing modes exist, how they are designated in washing machines and how to use them correctly.
Content
What it is?
Washing modes are a set of programs that the manufacturer installed on the washing machine. By default, they have certain settings, which in most cases can be changed manually.
Choosing the right mode allows you to wash items from different fabrics. There are some that can be used to deal with difficult stains, disinfect products, or simply refresh them.
Some programs last longer, others take no more than 15 minutes. Adjusting the water heating temperature and spin speed allows you to change the washing time.
An additional rinse allows the detergent to be completely washed out of the fabric fibers.. Refusal of spinning eliminates mechanical impact on delicate tissues. To understand which mode is best to use, you should read their description.
What are they?
Before buying a washing machine, you need to familiarize yourself with the list of programs that are installed in the selected model. Preference should be given to the technology that will 100% satisfy the user’s needs.
The set of programs and their names may differ, but, in general, the default settings in most SMA models are similar and work on the same principle. All modes are divided into basic and additional.
Main programs, their designations on the washing machine, decoding
The main modes in SMA are full-fledged programs. Regardless of their duration, they always go through three basic stages:
- washing;
- rinsing;
- spin
There are modes that last 15 minutes and are used to refresh things, and there are also those that take more than 2 hours. They are more suitable for dealing with difficult stains.
By type of linen
Programs are usually classified according to the type of laundry:
Each type of fabric requires special handling, so they have different modes. At first glance, it may seem that the washing process does not have any fundamental differences: things are soaked, washed, rinsed, and wrung out.
However, a treatment that does not harm cotton products can permanently damage synthetics or wool. That's why it's so important to choose the right washing mode for the type of fabric.
Cotton
Cotton mode designed for washing items made from natural fabrics. It can also be called “Linen and Cotton”.The program is designed to cleanse durable matter from contaminants, so the maximum water temperature can reach 95 degrees, and spinning is carried out at a speed of at least 1000 rpm.
If necessary, washing parameters can be adjusted by reducing water heating and reducing the spin speed. Essentially, washing at 95 degrees is boiling. This treatment is not suitable for all fabrics, but only white, or permanently painted.
To indicate mode manufacturers use the image of a T-shirt, a twig, a flower. The maximum temperature to which the water can be heated can be indicated next to it. Read more Here.
Synthetics
The regime intended for caring for items made from non-natural fabrics has certain differences. The main one is water heating. The maximum temperature is 40 degrees.
This limitation is set by all SMA manufacturers, since Exceeding the specified range will result in damage to the products:
- their shrinkage,
- thinning of fibers,
- washing out color.
The spin speed is 800 rpm. It can be increased manually, but this is not recommended, since intense mechanical stress will not benefit the tissue.
The “Synthetic” mode is shown on the display in the form of an unfinished triangle or flask icon with a straight line lowered into it. Read more here.
Delicate
The delicate mode is suitable for caring for things that require careful handling.It is installed on all SMAs, but can be called differently, for example, gentle wash, handwash etc.
The program features are as follows:
- An increased volume of water is used. This eliminates mechanical impact on delicate tissues.
- The default water temperature is 30 degrees. On some SMA models it can be increased to 40 degrees.
- Washing time does not exceed 60 minutes.
- Spinning is carried out at a speed no higher than 600-700 rpm. Most often they refuse it altogether.
Read more here.
Economical
Economical programs are designed to save time, washing powder, water and electricity. They are suitable for refreshing fabrics as they last from 15 to 40 minutes, depending on the settings.
Economical programs can be called differently:
- Eco-time,
- Express 15,
- Eco-program,
- Mini wash,
- New things,
- Daily wash
- Quick wash, etc.
As a rule, the settings set by the manufacturer cannot be changed in economical programs. They involve washing in a minimum period of time, so the water temperature does not exceed 30-40 degrees.
Such programs are suitable for almost any type of fabric: both delicate and durable. The main condition is the absence of persistent stains and dirt that cannot be quickly removed.
Most often, economical programs are indicated by the “Clock” icon. Sometimes there is a number next to it indicating the duration of the cycle in minutes, for example, “Super fast 30” or “Super fast 15”.
Fast
The main feature of a quick wash is its duration of 15-30 minutes. In such a limited time period, the machine will help to cope with light stains, refresh things, and eliminate unpleasant odors.
By default, the program has the following settings:
- water temperature 30 degrees;
- spin at a speed of 700-800 rpm (can be turned off).
Read more Here.
Eco
Eco mode is similar to Quick Wash. It is used to freshen things, get rid of unpleasant odors and remove dirt.
Eco mode lasts longer - about 50 minutes. At the same time, it is possible to reduce water and electricity costs by an average of 40%.
The water is heated to a temperature of 40 degrees. When washing on this program, it is recommended to use washing powders with enzymes for better stain removal. It does not involve the use of the “Pre-wash” function, but the process itself is carried out in 2 stages.
On the first, things are washed in cool water, at a temperature of about 20 degrees, and on the second, it rises to 40 degrees. Therefore, lace, silk, wool and other delicate fabrics should be washed in this mode with caution.
Other names for Eco mode:
- ECO,
- ECO+,
- Saving,
- Eco bubble, etc.
Save time
The Time Saving program involves washing at low water temperatures.Since the electric heater does not work most of the time, it is possible to reduce the washing time. Therefore, this mode saves not only time, but also electricity.
The program is installed on modern SMA models. As a rule, such equipment independently determines the type of fabric, weighs the laundry and, depending on the data received, optimizes water and energy consumption.
Washing in the Time Saving mode is only possible with an incomplete drum. If you load it by more than 30%, then its quality decreases. The stains will not be washed out, and the detergent will not be washed out of the fabric fibers well. Therefore, you can use this option only when there is not much laundry accumulated and it is not very dirty.
Mini
The mini-program is included in the general washing machine modes as a short cycle.
Depending on the model of equipment, it lasts 20-40 minutes. At the same time, the water only heats up to 30 degrees, so it will not be possible to get rid of serious dirt and stubborn stains.
Manufacturers indicate that this regimen is preventive in nature. It will be especially relevant for people who are allergic to house dust or pollen, since with the help of a mini-program it is possible to quickly rid things of allergens. It can be used to wash new items to remove excess dye from them.
The mini program can be designated as Daily Wash. Things in this mode are rinsed only once, which must be taken into account when choosing a detergent (preference is given to liquid forms). The drum should be loaded no more than 50%.
For health care
The “Health Care” program appeared on washing machines relatively recently.For example, this function is found on the latest models SMA LG.
The manufacturer introduced it to completely remove detergent residues from fabric fibers. This avoids skin contact with potentially hazardous compounds.
It will be useful to people suffering from:
- allergies,
- bronchial asthma,
- contact dermatitis and other skin diseases.
Washing is carried out at a temperature of 40 degrees, it can be increased to 60 degrees or the heating can be turned off completely. The cycle lasts 1:30 – 2 hours. The exact time depends on the settings selected. It is recommended to load the drum no more than 50%, and use liquid formulations as a detergent.
For allergy sufferers
The program can be indicated on the control panel as “Anti-allergenic wash” or “Anti-Allergy + steam”. It is designed for the highest quality elimination of allergens and microbes.
The “Cotton” program serves as the basis for this mode, but it has some differences, including:
- The water is heated to higher values.
- Keep things in boiling water for at least 20 minutes.
- Several rinse cycles are carried out.
Using this mode allows you not only to achieve ideal cleanliness of things, but also to completely rid them of residual detergents. The program will be a real boon for people suffering from allergies and sensitive skin. It can be used to care for children's things.
Disinfection
The Disinfection program involves removing all pathogenic flora from things: viruses, fungi, bacteria.After such washing, the clothes will be practically sterile.
It can be used for:
- caring for children's things,
- for bedding with traces of biological secretions,
- for linen used by a sick person, etc.
Steam treatment is carried out using a steam generator, which is put into operation after a portion of water enters it, which the heating element brings to a boil. Steam enters the drum through the holes.
Disinfection of items requires a long wash cycle, which can last up to 2 hours 30 minutes. By default, water heating and spin speed are set to maximum.
Intensive
Intensive washing is used to process items with serious and complex stains. When activated, the device operates at full power.
Default the water temperature reaches 95 degrees, and the spin speed is at least 800 revolutions. During the main cycle, the drum rotates quickly and in different directions.
The mode is indicated by an image of a T-shirt with stains. It is not suitable for all fabrics. For example, it is not used for delicate items. Read more Here.
Preliminary
Prewash is designed to remove tough stains. It can be used for any fabric. However, please note that this function increases the cycle time by at least 30 minutes.
During prewash, the water heats up to 30 degrees, after which water and detergent enter the drum. He begins to slowly sway and turn.Then the water is drained and the main wash cycle begins.
Read more here.
Soak
The “Soak” mode is used for washing heavily soiled items. They are kept in water with dissolved detergent for some time., which allows you to get rid of stubborn stains. This function is a complete alternative to manual soaking.
Soaking is compatible with many modes. On some programs it is installed by default. Information about this is indicated in the user manual and on the control panel.
The water temperature during soaking is 30 degrees. The detergent enters the drum, after which it begins to slowly rock. Sometimes he stands completely motionless, which is the norm.
The completion of soaking is draining the waste liquid and starting the main wash.. Using this option increases the total wash duration by 30-60 minutes.
Spin
Spinning allows you to remove excess moisture from products. The more intense it is, the drier things will be.
To designate it, manufacturers use image of a spiral curled in a circle.
The minimum spin speed is 400 rpm, and the maximum is 1400 rpm. If necessary, this option can be disabled, which is especially important when washing delicate fabrics.
Spin is not compatible with some programs (silk, wool). Read more here.
Additional features and icons
Additional programs are not included in the basic programs, so they are not fully present on all models of washing machines.However, their use allows you to optimize the process of caring for “special” things.
Wool
The Wool mode is designed for washing woolen items. The program is implemented in such a way that sweaters, cardigans, hats and others products after processing:
- do not lose their shape,
- do not shrink
- do not become covered with pellets.
Peculiarities:
- The cycle, on average, takes about 50 minutes.
- The water temperature is 30 degrees, it will not be possible to increase it.
- Spinning is not provided.
- The maximum drum load is 30%.
- To carefully care for woolen products, liquid detergents are used.
The mode is indicated by the image of a ball of wool. Read more Here.
Silk
When you turn on the Silk program, the water heats up to 30 degrees. If necessary, turn off the heating element and wash in cold water.
The drum rotates according to a special algorithm, so things inside move neatly.
In some SMA models, spinning is not provided for this program, but there are also those in which it is carried out at a speed of 400 rpm.
The drum should not be overloaded; it should not be filled more than halfway. To care for silk items, liquid detergents are used, which are poured into the main wash compartment. The mode is indicated by a “tank top” or “butterfly” icon.
Additional rinse
The “Extra Rinse” mode is used when you need to completely get rid of any detergent residue. It is recommended to use it when washing with powder, since it is less easily washed out of the fabric fibers than liquid detergent.
This option will be useful for people suffering from allergies and skin diseases. It can be used when washing children's clothes, bed linen, down jackets.
The option is indicated by a container icon with several lines or wavy lines. When activating the function, you need to take into account that it increases the washing time by 15-20 minutes. Read more here.
Kids' things
Mode Children's clothing designed for caring for diapers, rompers, baby undershirts and other things that the child comes into contact with. This cycle is aimed at high-quality removal of contaminants and complete leaching of powder or gel particles from fabric fibers, so it lasts at least 2 hours.
The water temperature is adjusted, it is possible to heat it up to 95 degrees. There are four rinse cycles, but manufacturers recommend using gels for washing.
Sportswear
The mode is intended for caring for things in which a person plays sports. The water is heated to 30 degrees, and spinning is carried out at a speed of 600 rpm.
On average, a cycle lasts 1 hour 20 minutes. Although if you change the washing parameters, the time may be increased.
The “Sport” mode is indicated by an image of a T-shirt with dumbbells or a ball. Some manufacturers offer to use the “Sport Intensive” program, in which the drum rotates faster and the spin reaches 800 rpm.
No spin
Modern washing machines allow the user to turn off the spin cycle when using any program. This may be required when washing at night or when caring for delicate fabrics.
Activating the mode is very simple, just press the key with the image of a crossed out spiral. If the device has a display, the word “OFF” will light up on it. As a result, the water after rinsing will simply be drained into the sewer.
Cold processing
The “Cold wash” mode involves refusing to heat the water. It is compatible with almost all programs, with the exception of steam treatment or disinfection.
Can be washed in cold water black and colored lightly colored things, which will preserve the pigment in the fibers of the fabric. Things will only be rinsed once. The option is not compatible with quick and pre-wash.
Night
Night mode allows you to wash virtually silently. When activated, all sound signals from the equipment will be turned off. Spinning is carried out at minimum speed.
The drum rotates smoothly during washing, so the option can be used to care for delicate fabrics.
The water temperature is adjusted manually. The cycle duration is about an hour, the exact time depends on the specified parameters.
How to choose?
When selecting a washing mode, you need to proceed from the following points:
- Degree of laundry contamination.
- The fabric from which things are made.
- Information that the manufacturer indicated on the label.
- Permissible water temperature and spin speed at which the item will not be subject to information.
- Duration of washing. If the machine is equipped with a display, the time will appear on the screen. In other cases, refer to the user manual.
The program is selected by pressing the buttons or turning the selector.
Conclusion
Numerous modes allow you to optimize the washing process. Each of the programs will definitely have a use. The main thing is that the selected option matches the type of fabric and its features.
