Differences between delicate and hand washing in a washing machine

Intuitively, it always seems that hand wash and delicate wash are essentially the same thing, but different washing machine manufacturers use different program names. That's why many are surprised to find two different modes on their washing machine—"Hand Wash" and "Delicate Wash." It turns out that delicate wash differs in some way from hand wash. Let's try to figure out exactly how, and how, for users of automatic washing machines, these differences benefit them.

Delicate and hand washing: similarities and differences

If you try to find information on this issue online, you'll find observations from homeowners and certain empirical findings. They agree that a delicate wash cycle requires a particularly low drum speed, spin cycle, and temperature to avoid damaging items. However, this program is suitable for items that are generally machine-washable.

As for the hand wash program, it automates the washing process for clothes that are not supposed to be washed automatically. During hand washing, the drum barely rotates, so it might even seem as if the machine is broken, so gently does it operate.

So, let's now summarize the information we've received about what distinguishes hand washing from delicate washing, if in both cases we're talking about CM programs.

Important! By definition, "Hand wash" washes items more gently than "Delicate wash."

When the user starts the hand wash program, the drum practically does not rotate during the entire cycle, but only oscillates slightly. This mode is ideal for items that have a label warning against machine washing. It would seem like a contradiction, but in the new generation of washing machines, the manual mode is implemented so well that it practically completely replicates the same actions of the housewife.

The delicate cycle can be used to wash items that are officially machine washable. The program settings will preserve the color and shape of these complex items.

The common features of delicate and hand washing can be summarized in a list.

• Low water temperature (not higher than 30-40 degrees).
• Large amount of water.
• Reduced drum load capacity. If a standard washing machine load capacity is, say, 5.5 kg, then the delicate wash load capacity will be 1.5 kg, and for hand washing, only 1 kg.

However, the difference between these programs is still quite noticeable. The delicate cycle is typically used for washing tulle, curtains, lace, wool, silk, cashmere, microfiber, and other items. It's also advisable to use special bags when washing to prevent items from getting caught in the drum, although finding a suitable bag for bulky items can be challenging.

Hand washing, however, doesn't necessarily mean delicate items. The main characteristic of items labeled "hand washing" is that wringing and pressing are prohibited, hence the specific operation of the drum. Hand washing is suitable for outerwear and membrane items.

Detergents for these modes

Choosing the right detergent is essential for high-quality washing. When it comes to delicate fabrics that require careful handling, you can forget about loose powders and harsh bleaches. Liquid detergents free of chlorine, phosphate, and enzymes are your best bet. They maintain the fabric's colour pigment in good condition, care for the fibre structure and, at the same time, dissolve easily and do not settle on products. Thus, truly gentle washing involves both choosing the right program on your washing machine and selecting the right detergent.

Please note: Lanolin is used as a softener in many liquid detergents, and it removes stains just as effectively as bleach.

If meticulously reading the ingredients on a bottle of cleanser while standing in the middle of a store is too much for you, you can make it easier for yourself and simply buy a gel labeled "for gentle cleansing" or something similar.

   

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