Why a short programme is not always gentler
Short answer: A short programme often compensates with higher temperature and stronger movement. It saves time, but it is not necessarily gentle on the clothes. A gentle programme is long, cool and calm, and that is the opposite of a quick programme, even though both can look like a shortcut on the display.
Less time needs more force
If the same cleaning is to be reached in half the time, something else must be turned up. That is usually heat, and sometimes drum movement. Both wear the fabric more than a long, calm wash at low temperature. A short programme is therefore not the same as a mild one, even if the name may sound like it.
Rinsing can get shorter
A quick programme often uses fewer rinses, and that can leave detergent residue in the clothes. Residue makes fabric stiff and can irritate the skin of some people. Talk to your doctor if you have lasting itching. See bamboo dressing gown for men for clothes that should feel soft and should have no residue in the fibres.
A gentle programme is different
A gentle programme is something other than a quick one. It is long, cool and calm, and gives the fabric the most careful treatment. See sleepwear and Nordic Weaving for clothes you wash often and where a calm programme is a good starting point. Always read the care label before you choose.
When a short programme is good
A short programme is good for lightly soiled clothes that only need freshening up and where there is little to loosen. Clothes worn only briefly can often manage with a quick wash. For heavily soiled clothes, sweat and stains, time matters more. Then a longer programme is the better choice.
Energy and time
A long programme does not necessarily use more power. Low temperature and long time can use less than short time and high heat, because heating water normally takes a lot of energy. Look in the machine's manual for the programme's energy figures. Compare the programmes instead of going by time alone.
Knitwear and delicate clothes
For knitwear, a gentle programme with low temperature and low spin is the right choice. Knitwear can lose its shape if washed too hard. Dry it flat and avoid hanging it up wet. Follow the care label, since the maker's advice applies to that exact garment.
How to choose a programme
Choose the programme by what the clothes need. Lightly soiled and briefly worn clothes can get a short programme. Ordinary everyday clothes suit a normal programme at low temperature best. Delicate clothes need a gentle programme. Always check what the care label recommends, and choose low temperature and longer time rather than the reverse.
Do not overfill the machine
Fill the machine sensibly, whichever programme you choose. An overfilled machine rinses worse, and the clothes rub against each other more. Use the right amount of detergent and do not use more for a short programme, because residue lingers more easily when rinse time is short. That applies especially to quick programmes.
Frequently asked questions
When is a short programme good?
For lightly soiled clothes that only need freshening up and where there is little to loosen. If the clothes are very dirty or have stains, a longer programme gives a better result.
Does a long programme use more power?
Not necessarily. Low temperature and long time can use less than short time and high heat. Compare the energy figures in the machine's manual before you choose, instead of looking only at the time.
What should I choose for knitwear?
A gentle programme with low temperature and low spin. Follow the care label and dry the knitwear flat so it does not lose its shape while it is wet and heavy.
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