The cheapest setting on a washing machine is usually the Eco wash program, also called the Saver wash.
Eco wash cuts down on energy usage by lowering the total temperature of the water dramatically. This cycle type is perfect if you're conscious of your environmental impact, or want to cut down on energy bills. Eco wash is cheaper than quick wash because it uses less electricity and water.
The Delicates Cycle
A delicate wash or “hand wash” cycle is the machine equivalent to handwashing! This cycle uses warm or cold water with low or no spin. It's typically the shortest and most gentle cleaning cycle, and the low or no-spin allows for minimal fabric agitation.
An eco cycle saves energy by using a lower water temperature. But by decreasing temperature, the washing machine will need more time to effectively clean your clothes, as it'll need to move your clothes around the drum for longer to remove stains.
Do you have the manual for your washing machine? ECO washes are usually cheaper than hot washes, as they wash for longer at cooler temperatures for similar results. Not sure where savings could come from if quick wash is already at 30, but the ECO wash is likely to have better washing results.
Use a cold water or 30°C cycle where possible. You're only likely to need warmer temperatures for particularly dirty clothes, bad stains or underwear. A cold wash will not only save energy but help the planet too. It's estimated that 60% of the carbon footprint of doing laundry is from heating up the water.
The cons of a quick wash setting
It's not the cycle to use if you're washing baby clothes or want to sanitize bed sheets. The quick wash setting generally can't wash above 40 degrees Celsius so it won't kill germs or viruses. It's also not a thorough wash, so it won't help remove any heavy-set stains.
The synthetic cycle. The synthetic cycle should be used for the everyday washing of synthetic or blended materials that are moderately soiled or dirty. This includes polyester sportswear, jeans and jumpers. This setting is ideal for items that need a slightly gentler wash and should be used on a lower spin speed.
A regular cycle is best for sturdy and dirty clothes, while the permanent press setting is fine for the average load. Use the delicate cycle for lacy and loosely woven fabrics. Use hot water for white loads, warm water for the average load, and cold water for bright colors.
To conserve even more, use the Quick Wash cycle for lightly-soiled loads. This cycle typically uses up to one-third less water than regular wash cycles, helping you save on your water bill without sacrificing cleanliness.
Cotton Normal/Uniform is perfect for everyday cotton garments like shirts, pants, towels, and bed linen. Synthetic/Daily program is ideal for synthetic daily wear. Mixed Soiled+ caters to various cotton, synthetic, or easy-care garments, excluding delicate or special fabrics. Cradle Wash is for your delicate clothes.
- Off-peak hours are typically early in the morning or late at night when there is less demand for electricity. - By doing laundry during these times, you can take advantage of lower electricity rates and save money. - Doing laundry during peak hours, such as midday or early evening, can increase your electricity bill.
Energy efficiency
In terms of efficiency, front load washing machines are outright winners.
Whenever possible, use those with lower temperatures and shorter durations. Only wash clothes with stubborn dirt at 90 °C. Usually, 60 °C is more than sufficient. If the garments are not particularly dirty, use even lower temperatures (40 degrees is fine in many cases).
It's also referred to as the “speed wash”, “light wash”, or an “eco wash” cycle. While most cycles last between 30 to 40 minutes, a quick wash cycle can be completed in less than 20 minutes. The cycle is of shorter duration and it is gentler than a regular or heavy-duty wash.
Delicates
This washing machine cycle uses high levels of cold water and a low spin speed for carefully tending to undergarments, neckties, stuffed animals and delicate fabrics, like some silks. Use this cycle for garments marked as “Machine Washable Silks” or “Gentle” on the care tag.
The cheapest setting on a washing machine is usually the Eco wash program, also called the Saver wash. By using lower temperatures and less water, it reduces energy and water consumption, saving you money in the long run.
Quick wash has a shorter spin time and uses cooler water – which means you're saving on your energy bills. According to washing experts Ariel, quick wash uses 60% less energy and 40% less water when compared to a regular cotton cycle.
In some instances, yes. However, a 30-minute wash is enough for your clothes depends on a few factors: Soil Level: Heavily soiled clothes from exercise, outdoor work, or greasy messes likely won't get fully clean in a 30-minute cycle. These clothes require a longer, more thorough wash at a higher temperature.
Quick wash cycles are intended for small laundry loads, and not for your regular weekly laundry loads that may take a little longer to wash. When washing small loads, a quick cycle is totally adequate. It uses just enough water, at just the right temperature to leave everything fresh.
A normal wash cycle usually takes between 50 minutes to an hour to complete. However, this time could be faster or slower depending on load size and the cycles or options you choose. That's one of the reasons it's important to know how to choose the right washer cycle.