Delicate vs. Hand Wash cycle: what’s the difference?
When it comes to caring for delicate fabrics, the Delicate cycle uses gentle agitation and a slightly faster spin, while the Hand Wash cycle mimics hand washing with slower or no spin. Both cycles use cold water and help protect sensitive fabrics like silks or wool.
While both the Delicate and Hand Wash cycles use more water than normal settings, their cycle times are similar, typically ranging from 45 to 80 minutes. The Hand Wash cycle is best for fragile items like wool or embellished fabrics, whereas the Delicate cycle is great for machine-washable delicate fabrics such as silks or wool. As always, check your care tag first to make sure your garment is machine washable.
Read on to learn more about how each cycle works to help protect your family’s most delicate items while keeping them fresh and clean.
Is the Hand Wash cycle the same as hand washing?
The Hand Wash cycle mimics hand washing by using cold water, low agitation and a slower spin speed (or no spin speed). For very fragile fabrics or heavily embellished items, it's best to physically hand wash to avoid damage from machine agitation.
Can you wash hand-wash-only items using the Delicate cycle?
It’s not recommended to wash hand-wash-only items on the Delicate cycle, as some fabrics are too delicate even for this gentle setting. Do not use the Delicate cycle at all if your care tag says “hand-wash only.” If you are going to use the Delicate cycle for fragile items use cold water, a low soil level and minimal or no spin speed. Always follow your garment’s care tag instructions.
When to use the Hand Wash cycle: scenarios and examples
Remember to start by checking your item’s care label. The Hand Wash cycle may be used for fabrics like cashmere, lace and certain wools, as well as embellished or beaded garments. You can also use it for delicate lingerie or items made of fragile materials.
Consider using the Hand Wash cycle for:
Delicate wool sweaters
Embellished blouses
- Lace lingerie
When to use the Delicate cycle: scenarios and examples
The Delicate cycle is great for washing lightweight, lightly soiled items like sheer fabrics, silk blouses and synthetic fabrics. It’s also helpful for washing items prone to wrinkling. Check your item’s care tag for specific instructions before washing.
Consider using the Delicate cycle for:
Silk blouses
Lingerie
Synthetic fabric tops
Can you use regular detergent for Hand Wash and Delicate cycles?
Choosing the right detergent for your fabric is an important part of caring for your clothes. Some detergents may be too harsh for these cycles. A product like Swash® Laundry Detergent1, provides a pre-measured pour, ensuring the right amount for each load. This helps prevent detergent residue and buildup, keeping fabrics fresh and clean, while being gentle on your clothing.
Tips for drying delicates & hand washables
When drying delicates and hand washables, it's essential to handle them with care to help avoid shrinking, stretching or damaging the fabric. Here are some tips to help ensure your delicates aren’t damaged:
Check your garment’s care tag for instructions
Air-dry whenever possible to help prevent shrinking
Use a mesh drying rack for sweaters and knit items
Select Tumble Dry No Heat or Air Dry if you are using a dryer
Explore Whirlpool® Washers and Dryers
Whirlpool brand offers a wide range of washers and dryers with customizable settings and Delicate cycles to care for all your fabrics, from delicate silks to sturdy denim. Discover features like the Quick Wash Cycle and Built-In Water Faucet to help you simplify laundry day and spend more time doing what matters most.
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1. Swash® brand products and the recommending brands’ products are all owned and distributed by Whirlpool Corporation.
