It would seem that in the modern era, any word from any language can be translated into Russian in a matter of seconds, but in reality, things aren't so simple. When it comes to the inscriptions on a washing machine's control panel, especially in German, users may encounter difficulties, as online translators often translate such terms incorrectly. For example, how do you translate the German inscription "Koch" on a washing machine?
How to translate "Koch" into Russian?
The main difficulty with the Koch label is that the specific meaning of the term on a washing machine depends on many nuances. Generally speaking, it means washing at a high temperature. However, some programs with this name allow washing at 60 degrees Celsius, while others only at 90 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, sometimes Koch doesn't directly describe the washing parameters, but rather designates the type of fabric that can withstand high-temperature washing.
Important! If you see the Koch label on the control panel, remember that it is strictly contraindicated for washing delicate items, shoes, silk, or synthetics. Only cotton and linen can withstand high temperatures without the risk of deformation!
Translation of basic programs
German washing machine control panels also contain numerous other terms that can be confusing for Russian-speaking users. German words are typically very complex and long, so trying to translate them from German each time is a waste of time. It's best to have a ready-made list nearby:
Hauptwasche is a basic, “everyday” washing mode, suitable for all types and kinds of fabrics.
Kochwash — as mentioned above, a wash cycle in hot water. It's suitable for washing natural, dense fabrics that are moderately to heavily soiled. This cycle is typically suitable for washing newborn items, bedding, and other items that can be washed intensively. This cycle involves washing at temperatures above 60 degrees Celsius.
Buntwash is a fairly intensive wash for colored items made from durable natural fabrics (linen or cotton). The temperature is limited to 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit) and cannot be set higher, so it may not remove heavily soiled items, but light and medium-sized ones will be easily removed.
Mix — for washing colored fabrics of mixed composition. Similar to Buntwash, but more gentle.
Jeans is a program for washing denim items.
Light mode. Suitable for synthetics, various types of underwear, and other items that don't require ironing (shirts or blouses). Suitable for removing medium-heavy stains.
Feinwasche is a typical "hand wash" cycle. A very gentle cycle for the most delicate and fussy fabrics. This program does not include spinning. If you need it, run it yourself after washing. It's also recommended to load the drum halfway on this setting. Some washing machines have a similar program, "Wolle, Seide" (silk and wool in Russian), which has exactly the same wash parameters.
The "Wrinkle Free" mode is a gentle spin cycle designed to reduce creasing.
Dessous – women's underwear, even made from natural fabrics, must be protected from deformation. This mode is designed specifically for this purpose.
Sport Intensive - sportswear requires washing more often than any other type of clothing, and this intensive yet fast cycle is designed specifically for this purpose.
Outdoor — a program for washing items with a water-resistant coating (typically autumn outerwear). It features a special drum cycle for enhanced impregnation and cleaning. Use only with additional detergent.
Regarding the washing duration, the Germans have allocated two modes for this parameter:
Blitz, 30° 30min — an express wash program. 30 minutes, while some manufacturers offer only 20. Suitable for unstained items. The load capacity is extremely low—only 3 kg.
Schnell Intensive is also a blitz program, but more intensive, for dense natural fabrics that contain dirt.
The next three keys are designed to automatically activate a specific washing stage if it is not included in the selected program or in some emergency cases.
Spinning is a spin cycle for cotton or linen items. A button automatically activates the spin cycle when needed.
Schonschleudern — gentle spin. Spins delicate and sensitive fabrics without damaging them (especially silk and wool).
Pumpen or Abpumpen is a special program for draining water.
And finally, the "special" Energiesparen mode—literally translated as "energy saving"—is interesting because it saves energy by heating the water at a lower temperature. If you want to wash heavily soiled items but are wary of using ultra-high temperatures, this mode is suitable. At 60 degrees Celsius, it will provide the same level of cleaning due to the special drum mode and long cycle time.
The Germans' notorious meticulousness even manifests itself in the production of their washing machines—they truly boast a wide variety of washing programs for every occasion. A Russian wouldn't be able to grasp all of this at once, and in most cases, it's not necessary. It's enough to keep the translations of the names handy and gradually memorize the Russian meanings.
It would seem that in the modern era, any word from any language can be translated into Russian in a matter of seconds, but in reality, things aren't so simple. When it comes to the inscriptions on a washing machine's control panel, especially in German, users may encounter difficulties, as online translators often translate such terms incorrectly. For example, how do you translate the German inscription "Koch" on a washing machine?
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