Learn Which Washing Machine Setting to Use Based on Your Load
WASHING MACHINE SETTINGS EXPLAINED
The normal cycle is a go-to for day-to-day loads. But when different stains and fabric types pile up in the laundry basket, get the most out of your machine with cycles that go beyond the norm. Learn about perm press, deep water washer, what the different cycle icons mean and more.
Laundry Guide: When to Use Each Cycle
Most washing machines offer all or some combination of these cycle options:
It’s a good idea to make sure you understand each cycle icon on your washing machine.
Normal Cycle
WHEN TO USE
For cottons, linens, sheets and mixed garment loads that are normally soiled.
HOW IT WORKS
Combines high spin speeds and warm water. This cycle is designed to provide the most energy efficiency.
WATER TEMPERATURE
Warm
COLD WATER WASH
WHEN TO USE
Washing bright or darkly colored cotton, linens, casual items, mixed loads or clothes with cold water stains. Find out which stains need cold water with this quick guide.
HOW IT WORKS
Uses cold water with additional wash action to gently lift stains.
WATER TEMPERATURE
Cold
DELICATE
WHEN TO USE
For lightly soiled sheer fabrics, lingerie, sweaters, blouses, pants or anything recommending a “gentle” cycle on the tag.
HOW IT WORKS
Combines gentle wash action and low-speed spin for gentle cleaning and reduced wrinkling.
WATER TEMPERATURE
Cold
RINSE & SPIN
WHEN TO USE
For items that need a rinse without detergent, such as swimwear.
HOW IT WORKS
Combines a rinse and high-speed spin. Use on its own or add to loads needing an extra rinse.
WATER TEMPERATURE
Cold
WRINKLE CONTROL
WHEN TO USE
Washing button-up shirts, professional clothes, linens, activewear or non-iron clothing. Similar to permanent press, use for any item with that symbol on its tag.
HOW IT WORKS
Combines low-speed wash action and medium-speed spin for gentle cleaning and reduced wrinkling.
WATER TEMPERATURE
Warm
Heavy Duty
WHEN TO USE
For sturdy, dirty loads that need intense cleaning. Use the PowerWash® cycle by Maytag to deliver powerful cleaning to heavily soiled items.
HOW IT WORKS
Combines extra wash action, heated water and high spin speeds for a deep clean.
WATER TEMPERATURE
Very Warm/Hot
Bedding
WHEN TO USE
Washing large items like sheets, sleeping bags, small comforters, jackets and small rugs.
HOW IT WORKS
Fills washer with enough water to wet down the load, then some washers fill with higher water levels than other cycles.
WATER TEMPERATURE
Warm
Sanitize
WHEN TO USE
For clothes, bedding and towels that require sanitization.
HOW IT WORKS
Uses hot or extra-hot water to help kill the most common bacteria found in laundry. Some sanitize cycles require the use of an Oxi product in the Oxi dispenser of the washer.
WATER TEMPERATURE
Hot/Extra Hot
Deep Water Wash
WHEN TO USE
For heavily soiled casual and mixed loads. Items could include towels, jeans and sturdy fabrics. This is only available on top load washers.
HOW IT WORKS
Provides additional water and alternating wash action.
WATER TEMPERATURE
Warm
What is Permanent Press
Some washing machines and some dryers have a permanent press , sometimes called perm press or perm press wash, to help reduce or even remove wrinkles.
For washing machines, this cycle uses a slower spin cycle and warm water to release wrinkles from the items in the wash. For dryers, this cycle uses medium heat and a cool-down period, a combination that is known to prevent wrinkling and creasing.
Read this article to learn more about the perm press.
LEARN MORE LAUNDRY BASICS
Decode the symbols on your clothing care tag to learn what they really mean.
Learn the ins and outs of using HE detergent in your washing machine.
Learn how washing machines are using low water levels for a deep clean and optimal results.
