What Does Permanent Press Mean on a Washing Machine: An Indepth Explanation
What Does Permanent Press Mean on a Washing Machine?
The term “permanent press” on a washing machine refers to a specific setting designed for clothing that is prone to wrinkling.
When using the permanent press setting, clothes should be sorted based on fabric, color, and care instructions, loaded into the washing machine with detergent, and treated with this particular setting.
It is important to remove the clothes promptly after the cycle is complete to prevent wrinkles and avoid leaving them in the washing machine between cycles.
After washing, the clothes should be placed in the dryer with the permanent press cycle selected for further care.
In the case of clothes labeled as “non-wrinkle,” they should be removed from the dryer while still damp and hung up to air dry.
Otherwise, clothes can remain in the dryer until the cycle is complete, but they should be promptly removed and hung up to prevent wrinkling.
It is worth noting that Whirlpool offers washers and dryers with additional features to assist in laundry care.
Key Points:
- “Permanent press” on a washing machine is a setting for clothing that is prone to wrinkling.
- Clothes should be sorted by fabric, color, and care instructions before using the permanent press setting.
- Promptly removing clothes after the washing cycle prevents wrinkles and should not be left in the washing machine between cycles.
- For further care, clothes should be placed in the dryer with the permanent press cycle selected.
- Non-wrinkle clothes should be removed from the dryer while still damp and hung up to air dry.
- Clothes should be promptly removed from the dryer and hung up to prevent wrinkling, unless they have additional features for laundry care.
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that the term “permanent press” was first introduced by the clothing company Procter & Gamble in the 1950s? They used it to market their new range of wrinkle-resistant and easy-care garments.
2. The “permanent press” setting on your washing machine is designed to minimize wrinkling by using a combination of warm water, shorter wash cycles, and gentle agitation. This helps preserve the shape and appearance of your clothes.
3. The concept behind “permanent press” technology involves the use of chemical resin finishes on fabric during manufacturing. These resins work by temporarily bonding fibers together, providing wrinkle resistance even after repeated washes.
4. Different fabrics may require varying levels of care when using the permanent press setting. For example, natural fibers like cotton tend to respond well to this setting, while delicate fabrics such as silk or lace may need to be washed separately on a more delicate cycle.
5. Although the permanent press setting can help reduce wrinkles, it does not completely eliminate them. In some cases, you may still need to touch up your clothes with an iron or steamer for a perfectly crisp look.
Sorting Clothes Based On Fabric, Color, And Care Instructions
Sorting clothes before washing them is an essential step in maintaining their longevity and appearance. Taking into account the fabric, color, and care instructions ensures that each garment is treated properly, preventing damage and preserving their quality.
First, separate the clothes by fabric type, such as cotton, polyester, or silk, to avoid color bleeding and fabric damage.
Next, arrange the clothes by color, grouping darks, lights, and whites separately to prevent color transfer.
Lastly, carefully read and follow the care instructions on the garment labels, as it provides valuable information on the optimal washing method for each item.
Loading Permanent Press Clothes With Detergent
Once the clothes are sorted, it’s time to load them into the washing machine. For permanent press clothes, it is recommended to use a mild detergent that is suitable for the fabric type. Measure the appropriate amount of detergent based on the load size and the manufacturer’s instructions.
Avoid overloading the machine, as this can result in inefficient cleaning and potentially cause damage to the clothes. Ensure that the washing machine drum is not more than three-quarters full to allow enough space for the clothes to move freely during the wash cycle, facilitating proper cleaning and rinsing.
Selecting The Permanent Press Setting
Modern washing machines come with a range of pre-set cycles that are specifically designed for different fabric types and cleaning requirements. For washing permanent press clothes, it is recommended to choose the “Permanent Press” setting on the machine. This cycle is typically equipped with a gentler agitation and a slower spin cycle in comparison to regular settings. The objective of this setting is to reduce wrinkles in the clothes while still achieving effective cleaning. By using the designated “Permanent Press” setting, you can confidently wash your clothes without compromising their quality.
- Modern washing machines have pre-set cycles for different fabric types and cleaning needs
- The “Permanent Press” setting is ideal for washing permanent press clothes
- This setting includes gentle agitation and a slower spin cycle
- Its goal is to minimize wrinkles while cleaning effectively
“By using the designated ‘Permanent Press’ setting, you can trust that your clothes will be washed effectively without compromising their quality.”
Promptly Removing Clothes From The Washing Machine
After the washing cycle is complete, promptly remove permanent press clothes from the washing machine. Leaving them in the machine for too long may cause creases and wrinkles that are hard to remove later. Minimize the risk of wrinkles by quickly transferring the clothes to the dryer or hanging them up. Additionally, gently shake the clothes before placing them in the dryer to further prevent potential creasing.
Choosing The Permanent Press Cycle On The Dryer
Once the clothes are removed from the washing machine, they should be placed in the dryer, following the same sorting principles as before. If your dryer offers a “Permanent Press” cycle, it is recommended to select this option. The permanent press cycle on the dryer is designed to reduce wrinkles by utilizing lower heat and extended cool-down periods. This gentle approach to drying helps to maintain the fabric’s integrity while ensuring that the clothes are dried thoroughly and ready to wear promptly.
Proper Care For Non-Wrinkle Clothes
Some clothes are specifically labeled as “non-wrinkle” or “wrinkle-resistant,” indicating that they are designed to resist wrinkling during the laundering process. For these garments, it is important to follow specific care instructions to maintain their wrinkle-resistant properties.
After drying the non-wrinkle clothes in the dryer, it is advisable to remove them while they are still slightly damp. Hanging them up to air dry can help prevent any residual moisture from causing wrinkles. If any wrinkles do appear, a quick touch-up with a cool iron can usually restore the clothes to their crisp, unwrinkled state.
In conclusion, understanding what the “Permanent Press” setting on a washing machine means can significantly improve the care and maintenance of your clothes. By sorting clothes based on fabric, color, and care instructions, loading them with the appropriate detergent, selecting the correct cycle on the washing machine, promptly transferring them to the dryer, and adhering to specific care instructions for non-wrinkle clothes, you can ensure that your garments remain clean, fresh, and wrinkle-free.
- Whirlpool offers washers and dryers with innovative features that can assist in laundry care, providing convenience and efficiency.
Check this out:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between permanent press and regular wash cycle?
The main difference between the permanent press and regular wash cycle lies in the duration and intensity of agitation, as well as the speed of the final spin cycle. The permanent press cycle is shorter and includes gentler agitation, preserving the clothing’s quality and reducing the likelihood of wrinkling. Moreover, the slower final spin cycle ensures that the wet clothes do not weigh down on each other, further minimizing the risk of wrinkles. In contrast, the regular wash cycle may involve longer and more vigorous agitation, which can be harsher on the clothes and potentially result in more pronounced wrinkles.
When should I use permanent press cycle?
The permanent press cycle should be utilized for various scenarios. First and foremost, it should be employed when garments are unable to be ironed or when explicitly instructed by the garment tag to use this cycle. Additionally, brightly colored clothes that are resilient to color fading, excluding white garments, are best suited for this cycle. By following these guidelines, one can ensure that their clothes are handled with care and maintain their appearance for a longer duration.
What does permanent press do on a washing machine?
The permanent press cycle on a washing machine is specifically designed for synthetic fabrics. By selecting this cycle, one can minimize the formation of wrinkles in dress shirts and pants, as well as preserve the finish on wrinkle-free items. When using the permanent press cycle, warm or hot wash water is used to relax creases in the fabric, while a slow spin prevents the formation of new wrinkles. This cycle takes into account the unique needs of synthetic materials, helping to maintain their appearance and reduce the need for ironing or additional wrinkle-reducing efforts.
Is permanent press the same as delicate?
Permanent press cycles and delicate cycles may share some similarities in terms of their gentleness and shorter duration compared to standard wash cycles. However, it is important to note that they are not the same. Delicate cycles are specifically designed for fragile items, providing extra care and minimizing the risk of damage during the washing process. On the other hand, permanent press cycles, while still gentler than standard cycles, are not suitable for particularly delicate items. Therefore, it is crucial to choose the appropriate cycle based on the level of fragility and care required for each specific garment or fabric.
