What does the "Delicate Wash" symbol mean?

The multitude of functions and programs in washing machines presents users with a variety of choices. To make the right choice, it's important to not only know the program icons but also their functions. Let's discuss the "Delicate Wash" mode, what it means, and when to use it.

Function Description

Delicate wash is a symbol on a washing machine, which is most often accompanied by the inscription 30⁰This is the temperature at which delicate fabrics are washed. Such fabrics include silk, satin, synthetics, and some blended fabrics.

A reduced water temperature preserves the color of delicate fabrics, extending the life of the garment. This mode uses the smallest washing machine drum load, ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 kg depending on the washing machine's maximum load. Another key feature of this washing mode is water consumption, which uses slightly more. As a result, a small number of items are washed with a large amount of water, preventing creasing.

The drum rotates slowly during washing. Items in the drum rotate smoothly from side to side. Spinning in this mode occurs at low speeds or is absent altogether.

When talking about delicate washing, it's important to also talk about detergent. After all, to achieve maximum results, simply setting the right function on your washing machine isn't enough. Using the wrong powder can ruin your favorite item. A gentle laundry detergent should:

• easily dissolve in water and wash out of fabric, therefore it is better to use gels;
• does not contain aggressive substances, chlorine, enzymes, etc.;
• preserve the color of the fabric;
• not have an unpleasant odor;
• soften the product rather than making it rough and hard.

Delicate wash on different machines

The "delicate wash" symbol appears in varying forms on various washing machines. Not all manufacturers accept the term "delicate wash," but that doesn't mean they don't use programs with similar washing algorithms. The symbols also vary, but as the saying goes, "seeing is believing." Let's give some examples.

Ariston washing machines. These machines have two similar wash modes: delicates and hand wash. The delicates program runs 30 minutes longer and washes items super gently with plenty of water. The hand wash mode is faster but still very gentle on items. In fact, these are two programs that emphasize soaking rather than mechanical action. In the image below you can see the symbols that these programs are marked with in the Control Panel.

  

"Home helpers" produced under the Ardo brand. These machines, like Ariston washing machines, have two icons on the control panel: one for "hand wash" (a basin with a hand dipped in it), and the other for "delicates" (a feather). The modes work exactly the same, so it's as if the Ardo machines were programmed by the same specialists who worked on the Ariston washing machines.

Bosch washing machines. Machines of this brand have an icon that looks like a woman's summer dress. What does this symbol on the control panel of a German washing machine mean? It's the delicate wash cycle, and this mode is used both when a machine-like hand wash is needed and when washing delicate fabrics such as silk, satin, or blended fabrics.

The most modern Bosch washing machines now feature a hand wash symbol, although these machines are labeled and don't require any explanation.

Electrolux washing machines. Electrolux washing machines have three programs similar to the delicate wash cycle, and therefore three icons. In the image below, under the number "1," you see two wash cycles: hand wash (a basin with your hand in it) and lightweight fabrics (butterfly). There's also a cycle number "2," which stands for delicate fabrics (flower). These programs differ in their runtime. Delicate fabrics require the most gentle and longest cycle, followed by lightweight fabrics and the fastest program – hand wash.

Zanussi automatic washing machine. Please note that Zanussi machines have four programs similar to the delicate wash program: two hand wash programs (cold and 30 degrees Celsius) and two delicate wash programs (30 degrees Celsius and 40 degrees Celsius). This selection of programs allows you to precisely adjust the washing machine to the specific items you're washing, preventing damage.

In what cases is it used?

The delicate wash cycle is used for a variety of purposes. Regardless of its name, the operating principle is essentially the same in all cases. This cycle is most often used to wash:

• products made of thin fabrics such as blouses, shirts, silk shirts, etc.;
• curtains, drapes and tulle;
• wool and cashmere items, if there is no “Wool” mode;
• viscose clothing;
• underwear;
• fabric sneakers and Converse;
• soft toys and anti-stress pillows;
• If there is no special mode, you can wash a synthetic or bamboo blanket, as well as pillows.

In general, the delicate cycle is used to wash anything that's sensitive to high drum speeds and high water temperatures. Almost all automatic washing machines have this cycle, and if not, there's a similar cycle. We hope you now know enough about the delicate cycle and similar cycles.

   

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