How Long Does The Delicate Wash Cycle Take? (and what it’s for)
The duration of the delicate cycle on a washing machine varies depending on the make and model of appliance you own. The average time for a delicate cycle is anywhere between 45 to 80 minutes.
To find out what the delicate cycle is for and many more details, keep reading.
What Is The Delicate Wash Cycle?
The delicate wash cycle uses cool temperatures and low spin speeds to ensure that the delicate fabrics do not become damaged during the wash cycle.
What Is The Delicate Wash Cycle Used For?
The delicate wash cycle is used for washing items that are considered delicate either due to the material they are made from or because of the way they were made. These items include;
- Lace
- Silk
- Lingerie
- Silk Ties
- Electric Blankets
- Knitted Items
What’s The Difference between A Delicate & A Normal Wash Cycle?
The two main differences between a normal cycle and a delicate cycle is the water temperature and the speed in which the drum rotates to agitate the wash load.
You should always check the care label on your garments and wash them using the appropriate wash cycle on your washing machine.
What’s The Difference Between A Delicate & A Gentle Wash Cycle?
There is no difference between a gentle wash cycle and a delicate wash cycle. They are both the same wash cycle but named differently by different washing machine manufacturers.
Both cycles operate using low temperatures and low spin speeds to protect the fabrics being washed.
Can Any Detergent Be Used On A Delicate Wash Cycle?
It is always best to use a detergent designed for use with the fabrics that are being washed. Many delicate fabrics should be considered as sensitive.
To that end, we recommend using a mild, gentle or delicate detergent when washing delicate clothes.
There are a few factors to consider before purchasing a delicate detergent for your delicate clothes. These include;
- Skin Sensitivity
If you or a member of your family has sensitive skin or has an allergic reaction to some chemicals, you should choose a product that has the least chemical additives. - Environmentally Friendly
If the environment is important to you, you should choose detergents which are made from natural ingredients. You should also consider those products that are not tested on animals. - Value For Money
Many delicate detergents are quite expensive, so it’s a good idea to check on how much of the product is needed for each wash and how the cost of each product compares with others of similar quality. - How Effective It is
When considering a detergent for delicate clothing, you shouldn’t overlook how effective it is. Check out the reviews on buying channels for the most up to date, accurate reviews.
Ecover Delicate Laundry Liquid
- FRESH LAUNDRY – suitable for whites and colourfast items. Removes bobbling from cotton fibres after multiple washes. Not suitable for wool & silk, for this use Ecover delicate laundry liquid.
- FRAGRANCE – the detergent for whites and colourfast colours smells fresh of Lime & Lotus; it is dermatologically tested on sensitive skin and so very skin-friendly.
- FRESH LAUNDRY – delicately removes stains to help your wools & silk last longer. Approved by The Woolmark Company.
- FRAGRANCE – waterlily & honeydew fragrance with gentle cucumber, sun sweet honeydew and transparent waterlily.
Made from plant-based ingredients, Ecover delicate laundry liquid is a great choice for washing delicates. It smells great and is kind on those who have sensitive skin.
Eucalan Delicate Wash Wrapture Jasmine
- Nice for handwashing or machine
- Biodegradable and non toxic
Another great option is Eucalan Delicate Wash Wrapture Jasmine. It’s got a nice, subtle Jasmine scent that’s very uplifting yet not overpowering and is very kind on your delicates.
You don’t need to use much with this detergent, a little can go a very long way!
SEE ALSO: Permanent Press Vs Delicate Cycle – What’s The Difference?
Frequently Asked Questions
The delicate wash cycle is one of the shortest wash cycles on a washing machine.
The delicate wash cycle is one of the shortest, gentlest and quickest wash cycles.
Although the delicate cycle is good for washing fragile materials like silk and lace, it is not powerful enough to wash any heavily soiled garments.
The average temperature of a delicate wash cycle is 30 C.
