Spinning Your Laundry the Smart Way: Save Energy and Clothes!
Extending the Longevity of Fabrics: A Comprehensive Guide
Leverage the power of your washing machine for ideal laundry results while minimizing energy costs and prolonging the life of your clothes. Here's the lowdown on mastering spin cycles.
Saving Energy with a Faster Spin
Wringing out your clothes takes less energy when your machine spins at a higher speed. The faster spin, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), leaves your laundry more dried before heading to the dryer. This translates to reduced drying energy consumption – win-win! The German Association for Body Care and Wash Care (IKW) suggests a spin speed of at least 1200 RPM.[1]
Treating Delicate Fabrics with TLC
Fabrics like linen, viscose, and some T-shirts with V-necks can’t handle the whirlwind of fast spin speeds. They’re susceptible to wrinkles or even damage. Slow it down! For these sensitives, aim for a spin speed of no more than 800 RPM.[1]
Additionally, loading your washing machine sparingly and starting the cycle with only a quarter-full drum, especially on delicate wash programs, will prevent damage and preserve fabric quality – particularly beneficial for iron-friendly shirts and blouses.[1]
Going Green with Good old Fresh Air
Why fight Mother Nature when you can embrace her? People who air-dry their laundry can ditch the high spin speed altogether. This also protects delicate materials while adding an eco-friendly twist, as no energy costs are incurred during the drying process.[1]
Programming for Perfect Clothes
Modern washing machines feature preset programs tailored to specific fabric types. Generally, the cotton program uses 1200 to 1400 RPM. Easy care programs employ around 900 RPM, and delicate wash programs span about 600 RPM.[1] Selecting wisely both conserves energy and protects your wardrobe.
Good to know: Many washing machines permit independent spin speed adjustments, aside from the selected program. Manufacturer guidelines are your business card to navigating these features.[1]
In essence, your washing machine's spin speed affects both energy consumption and fabric care. Harness this understanding to make informed decisions for a laundry routine that saves money and preserves your clothes.[1] By striking a balance, you ensure energy savings while preserving the lifespan of your beloved garments.
[1] Gesundheit und Waschkultur e.V. (IKW) (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.waschwirtschaft.org/[2] Wolverton, C. M., & Singer, B. (2015). Understanding the Laundromat Microbiome. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 136(3), 810-812.[3] Raftery, A. (2017). The Cheating Housewife's Handbook: A Modern Guide to Domestic Subterfuge. Quirk Books.[4] Washing Machines: Energy Saver. (n.d.). U.S. Department of Energy. Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/washing-machines[5] New Washington. (n.d.). Washing Machine Spin Speed - How to Change It. Retrieved from https://newwashington.com/washing-machine-spin-speed/
- The home-and-garden enthusiast, who prefers outdoor-living, can save energy by air-drying their laundry, eliminating the need for a high spin speed and relying on the power of fresh air instead.
- To preserve the quality of delicate fabrics like linen and viscose, it is advisable to select a slower spin speed on the washing machine, as fast spin speeds can cause wrinkles or damage.
