What Is the Perm Press Setting on a Washer and How Does It Work?

1. Origins Of The Permanent Press Cycle

The permanent press cycle is a setting on washers and dryers specifically designed to protect clothes from wrinkling, color-fading, shrinking, and stretching. It was developed to cater to chemically treated clothes that resist wrinkling and folds, providing a specialized cycle that keeps them looking fresh and pressed without the hassle of ironing.

2. How The Permanent Press Cycle Works On Washers

When you use the permanent press cycle on your washer, it employs certain techniques to ensure that your clothes come out wrinkle-free.

First, the cycle uses warm water during the wash and cold water during the rinse. This combination helps to remove dirt and stains effectively while preventing colors from fading.

In addition to the temperature settings, the permanent press cycle also utilizes gentler agitation to minimize wrinkling. This means that the washer drum rotates at a slower pace, reducing the chances of clothes getting tangled and creating wrinkles.

Finally, the final spin cycle is slower to further reduce wrinkles before the clothes are ready for drying.

3. Benefits Of Using The Permanent Press Cycle On Dryers

The permanent press cycle is not limited to washers; it also has benefits for the drying process in the dryer. When you use the permanent press cycle on your dryer, it employs medium heat to reduce wrinkles. This temperature is less harmful to clothes than the hot air setting, which can cause fibers to shrink or become damaged.

Furthermore, the permanent press cycle often includes a cool down period towards the end. This cool down function ensures that the clothes gradually cool and prevents creasing and shrinking. Moreover, the cool down function also reduces energy consumption, making it a cost-effective and energy-efficient option for drying clothes.

• The permanent press cycle reduces wrinkles using medium heat.
• It is less harmful to clothes compared to the hot air setting.
• The cool down period at the end prevents creasing and shrinking.
• The cool down function also reduces energy consumption.

4. Which Clothes Benefit From The Permanent Press Cycle

The permanent press cycle is perfect for delicate clothing that needs special care. It is especially suitable for permanent press clothes and synthetic fabrics, like polyester or nylon blends, which are designed to resist wrinkles. These fabrics can greatly benefit from the gentle treatment provided by the permanent press cycle.

In addition, it is worth noting that the permanent press cycle can also be beneficial for clothes that cannot be ironed, such as certain delicate garments or items with embellishments. By utilizing this cycle, these clothes can maintain their appearance without the risk of damage that ironing may pose.

5. Limitations And Recommendations For The Permanent Press Cycle

While the permanent press cycle has numerous benefits, it also has limitations and specific recommendations for usage. It is not recommended for heavy-duty clothes or heavily soiled loads, as these may require a more robust cycle to get them properly clean. Delicate clothing that is specifically labeled as requiring a delicate cycle should also be washed accordingly instead of using the permanent press cycle.

Additionally, loosely knitted materials, lace, or wool should be washed using the delicate cycle, as their delicate nature requires more gentle handling. It’s essential to consider the specific care instructions for these types of fabrics to prevent damage.

To summarize the recommendations for using the permanent press cycle:

• Avoid using it for heavy-duty clothes or heavily soiled loads
• Follow the specific care instructions for delicate clothing
• Use the delicate cycle for loosely knitted materials, lace, or wool

Remember to always check the garment labels and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best results.

6. Key Differences Between The Permanent Press And Other Cycles

The permanent press cycle offers a distinct approach to laundering clothes, differing in terms of temperature, agitation, and duration. It is specifically designed for fabrics that require extra attention without being as delicate as those suited for the delicate cycle.

While the normal cycle is suitable for everyday fabrics, the permanent press cycle applies higher temperatures ranging from 85 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. This elevated temperature facilitates effective stain removal and thorough cleaning while still safeguarding the clothes from damage.

On the other hand, the delicate cycle is intended for more fragile fabrics and materials. It utilizes lower temperatures and gentler agitation to minimize the risk of harm. The permanent press cycle, however, falls between the normal and delicate cycles, offering a middle ground that suits garments needing extra care but not as delicate as those requiring the delicate cycle.

In summary, the permanent press cycle serves as a valuable tool in preserving the appearance and longevity of specific types of clothing. By employing warm water, gentle agitation, and slower spin cycles, this cycle effectively reduces wrinkles and protects garments from shrinking or stretching. Nevertheless, it is imperative to adhere to the recommendations and limitations of this cycle to ensure proper care for different fabric types.

---

Check this out:

---

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use permanent press cycle?

The permanent press cycle is ideal for those occasions when ironing is not possible or preferred, such as delicate fabrics that may be damaged by high heat. Additionally, garments labeled with ‘permanent press’ or ‘tumble dry’ instructions should be washed using this cycle to preserve their longevity and prevent wrinkling. Moreover, if you have brightly colored clothes that you want to keep vibrant without fading, the permanent press cycle is the way to go. By using this cycle, you can ensure that your garments maintain their original colors while still getting a thorough and effective wash.

Should I wash my clothes on perm press?

Yes, it is recommended to wash permanent press clothes on the perm press cycle. The special finish applied to these garments helps to maintain their wrinkle-free nature, and washing them on the correct cycle ensures that they are handled gently. Ironing out set-in wrinkles can potentially harm the fabric and compromise the effectiveness of the wrinkle-resistant treatment. Therefore, using the perm press cycle is the best way to preserve the quality and longevity of your permanent press clothing.

Is permanent press the same as delicate?

Permanent press and delicate cycles are not the same. While both cycles aim to protect fabrics, they differ in the temperature used during the wash and dry process. Permanent press utilizes medium-temperature water and air, while delicate cycle employs low-temp water and air to prevent damage to delicate fabrics. These temperature variations are crucial in preserving the condition of garments and preventing fraying. Therefore, it is important to choose the appropriate cycle based on the specific fabric and its care instructions to ensure the best cleaning and maintenance results.

What is the difference between perm press and normal laundry?

The primary difference between perm press and normal laundry lies in the level of gentleness in the washing process. While the regular cycle tends to be more rigorous, the perm press cycle is designed to be gentler on clothes, especially synthetic materials. It aims to reduce fading, shrinking, and pilling of garments, making it a preferred option for everyday clothing. However, delicate items like lingerie, athletic wear, or woven throws require even more delicate handling and should not be washed using the perm press cycle.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4