Washing Machines: Understanding Their Terminology

Although washing machines differ in how many knobs they have and the specific words they use for reach knob, all machines have at least three controls: temperature, load size and cycle type.

Temperature Controls

For most machines in the U.S., temperature differences are limited to hot, warm and cold. Some are slightly more complicated, with such options as hot/hot, cold/hot, warm/cold, etc. These options give you different choices for the washing and rinsing water temperatures, respectively. Watch out for a reset option—if your knob has a reset position, you must first turn it to the reset and then to the temperature you want. As I explain in my Laundry for Newbies blog, the lighter your clothes, the hotter the water can be. The dirtier your clothes, the hotter you want the water. However, cold water is more energy efficient (which means it costs you less), will not make your colors bleed and will still clean your clothes.

Load Size

This control will determine how much water the machine will put in the tub. I usually change this after I’ve added my clothes to see how full the tub is. There are typically three sizes—small, medium and large. Divide your machine into thirds—if it’s one-third full, it’s a small load, two-thirds full, it’s a medium load, and over two-thirds, it’s a large load. These usually have a reset button, as well. Tip: try to put off doing laundry until you have a full load. It will cost less money and save water!

Cycle Type

This control is generally the most confusing. The knob itself does three things: pushes in, pulls out, and turns. The push in stops the machine, the pull out starts the machine, and the turning lets you choose what cycle you want. For most machines, the knob must be pushed in to turn. Now, let’s break down the cycle options: cycle type and time length.

• Cycle Type: The cycle type is a name, not numbers. These can be anything from “regular” to “delicate,” “hand-wash” or “super heavy.” Usually self-explanatory, these cycles clean your clothes based on how dirty they are and how sturdy they are. If you have a super dirty load of laundry that won’t rip and tear if tossled around too much, choose the “super heavy” cycle. If you’re washing the hand-quilted comforter passed down to you from your great-grandmother, choose the “delicate” cycle.

• Time Length: Usually listed underneath the cycle type names are numbers. Not all the cycle types will have these, so don’t get confused! This typically signifies how long the cycle lasts—so if you’re looking for a quick wash, look for the smallest number. The more robust cycles—such as the super heavy cycle—take longer.

Once you’ve picked all your settings, add the soap and you’re ready to go! Not sure how much soap or what kind won’t discolor your favorite shirt? This blog has all the answers.

Written by: Laura R. Aiuto