Washers & Dryers 360Washers & Dryers 360
    Follow Us
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Instagram
    Powered By DealNews
    Washers & Dryers 360 is reader-supported. We may earn commissions on qualifying purchases. >
    Facebook Twitter Instagram
    Washers & Dryers 360Washers & Dryers 360
    • Brands
      • Amana Appliances
      • Bosch
      • Electrolux Appliances
      • Frigidaire
      • GE
      • Hotpoint Appliances
      • LG
      • Maytag
      • Miele
      • Samsung
      • Whirlpool
    • Washers
    • Dryers
    • About Us
    • Contact Us
    Washers & Dryers 360 is reader-supported. We may earn commissions on qualifying purchases. >
    Washers & Dryers 360Washers & Dryers 360
    Home ยป How Long Does It Take a Washer to Wash Clothes?
    Bright clothes inside washing machine.
    Washing machine with open door and bright colored clothes inside, close-up. view
    Washing Machines

    How Long Does It Take a Washer to Wash Clothes?

    July 11, 2022Updated:July 11, 2022No Comments
    Share
    Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Email

    Many factors can affect the amount of time it takes to wash clothes. A washing machine’s type, cycle presets, options, and load size will determine whether your laundry takes minutes or hours to get clean. The time it takes to do laundry also depends on how dirty your clothes are. A typical cycle for a front-loading machine could take up to 120 minutes to complete. High-efficiency top-loaders are faster at 60-85 minutes, and agitator top-loaders are the speediest washers at 35-80 minutes per load. Cycle times will vary with each model, but looking at some options can give you an idea of the time it will take to do your laundry.

    Table of Contents

    • Choose Your Load Size
    • Washing Machine Cycles and Options
    • 50-60 Minutes Is Typical for a Normal Cycle
    • 50 Minutes to 75 Minutes on Permanent Press
    • Delicate Cycle Takes 45 Minutes to 80 Minutes
    • A Rinse and Spin Cycle Takes 20-25 Minutes
    • A Quick Wash Takes 15-40 Minutes
    • 60 Minutes to 135 Minutes on Heavy Duty
    • Bulky Cycle Lasts Between 50 Minutes and 110 Minutes
    • 90 to 110 Minutes to Sanitize
    • Consider Your Temperature Settings
    • Select Your Soil Level Settings
    • Choosing a Machine: Front Load Washer vs Top Load Washer
    • Research Your Options

    Choose Your Load Size

    The wash cycle time can vary depending on the load size you choose. Smaller loads take less time to wash. The size of a load depends on the capacity of your washing machine. The owner’s manual should specify the drum capacity and recommend the best load size and weight for that model. Low-capacity top-loading machines may be full at 6 pounds; high-capacity home machines might max out at 15 pounds. A front-loading machine may take an 18-pound load, depending on its design. However, the maximum load size is not necessarily the ideal load size, especially for very dirty laundry. Clothing needs room to move freely so that water and detergent can flow with enough speed and pressure to wash and rinse fibers completely. Overly large loads may reach the end of their cycles with dry spots and unevenly distributed soap. Packed-in clothes can be damaged by excessive wear from pulling and twisting.

    Ensure that the clothes are evenly distributed throughout the drum. In general, a drum that’s one-quarter full carries a small load. A half-full washing machine carries a medium load, and a washer that’s over one-half full contains a large load of laundry.

    SaleBestseller No. 1
    HomeHacks 2-Pack Large Laundry Basket,75L Each Waterproof, Freestanding Laundry Hamper, Collapsible Tall Clothes Hamper with Extended Handles for Clothes Toys in the Dorm and Family-Gradient Grey
    HomeHacks 2-Pack Large Laundry Basket,75L Each Waterproof, Freestanding Laundry Hamper, Collapsible Tall Clothes Hamper with Extended Handles for Clothes Toys in the Dorm and Family-Gradient Grey
    • ๐Ÿ’•[Freestanding Structure]:A sturdy metal frame is embedded in the top edges of the HomeHacks hamper basket so the laundry basket stands firmly upright even when empty.
    • ๐Ÿ’•[Extra Large Capacity]:The laundry hamper measures 15.7" x 11.8"x 24.4" (L x W x H) with 75L large capacity. This clothes basket can hold clothes, pillows, baby toys, etc. Good choice for campus dorms or family life.
    • ๐Ÿ’•[Double reinforced Handles]:Two long handles, one on each side of the tall hamper, are reinforced with durable tight stitching to prevent tearing. Handles are long enough to hold for easy carrying with one or two hands, even when hamper is full of laundry or other items.
    • ๐Ÿ’•[Premium Fabric]:The extra-large laundry basket is made of premium cotton and flax material. PEVA waterproof coating inside of the basket keeps clothes dry and makes cleaning easy--simply wipe clean with a damp sponge or cloth. Attention: Do not clean in washing machine. Coating is not resistant to washing machine.
    • ๐Ÿ’•[Portable Collapsible]:The collapsible laundry bin folds up easily for compact storage, ideal for home, campus, camping, apartments, hotels and shopping.
    −$1.00 $19.99
    Buy on Amazon

    Washing Machine Cycles and Options

    Washing machine cycles and options can vary from machine to machine. Cycles might be labeled by fabric type or cleaning application. Pay attention to each cycle’s length, intensity, temperature, spin, and rinse. Using the wrong cycle can lead to worn-out or less-than-clean clothing.

    Here are some common cycles listed with their time ranges for completion. Keep in mind that cycle types can change to reflect market trends, and time ranges can vary by manufacturer.

    50-60 Minutes Is Typical for a Normal Cycle

    A normal wash cycle uses high agitation and a medium-to-long wash cycle to clean durable, everyday items like towels, jeans, sheets, T-shirts, socks, and underwear. The cycle time could increase or decrease depending on the load size and options you select. Tightly packed loads and too much soap can extend wash times.

    50 Minutes to 75 Minutes on Permanent Press

    The permanent press cycle accommodates synthetic and “wash and wear” garments that are blended or treated to be wrinkle-free. A short-to-medium-duration warm water cycle and a low-speed spin cycle provide a gentle yet effective wash.

    Delicate Cycle Takes 45 Minutes to 80 Minutes

    The delicate cycle, also called the gentle cycle, was created to simulate hand washing. This cycle is typically short and uses cold or warm water, low agitation, and low or no spin to clean silk, wool, and synthetics. Sheer fabrics, lingerie, sweaters, and dark jeans are commonly washed using the delicate cycle setting.

    A Rinse and Spin Cycle Takes 20-25 Minutes

    The rinse and spin cycle rinses clothes with water, then spins out the moisture. It can help get every last bit of excess detergent out of your clothes.

    A Quick Wash Takes 15-40 Minutes

    A quick or speed wash is ideal for small, lightly soiled loads of laundry or a forgotten, damp load that was left in the washer overnight. The cycle ends with a high-speed spin that removes most of the moisture from your clothes so that they will dry quickly.

    60 Minutes to 135 Minutes on Heavy Duty

    A heavy-duty wash cycle uses a long duration, high agitation, and fast spin cycle to clean sturdy, heavily soiled fabrics. This cycle removes as much moisture as possible from your clothes. It can be hard on clothes and should be used sparingly.

    Bulky Cycle Lasts Between 50 Minutes and 110 Minutes

    The bulky cycle maximizes cleaning power by using extra water to fully soak and rinse clothes. It’s meant for occasional use, and it’s suitable for washing blankets, duvets, and sleeping bags or muddy and heavily stained, durable clothing.

    90 to 110 Minutes to Sanitize

    A sanitizing cycle uses superheated water combined with detergent and an oxygen additive or other sanitizer to help eliminate bacteria. The long-duration cycle ensures that clothes get completely clean.

    Consider Your Temperature Settings

    Hotter temperatures can speed up wash times by making it easier for the detergent to separate dirt from clothing fibers. Hot water is not suitable for all fabrics, so take care when adjusting the temperature setting.

    Select Your Soil Level Settings

    A soil level setting may allow you to adjust the strength or duration of your wash. Generally speaking, the higher the soil level, the more/higher the agitation time and speed. Extremely dirty clothes take longer to wash. The duration will vary depending on the cycles or options you choose.

    Bestseller No. 1
    TYLER Glamorous Wash, Diva, 907g.
    TYLER Glamorous Wash, Diva, 907g.
    • The wash can be used for both machine washing and hand washing
    • The Tyler detergent has been formulated to clean effectively yet remain gentle on delicate, specialty fabrics
    • Use the Glamorous Wash to clean your linens, lingerie, fine fabrics, and much more for the long lasting, soothing aroma of Tyler fragrances.
    • Size: 32oz. (907g)
    $24.90
    Buy on Amazon

    Choosing a Machine: Front Load Washer vs Top Load Washer

    Washing machine sits under a wooden table that supports a plant in a wicker basket.

    Front-load washers clean clothes better than top-load washers while being easier on clothes, but they are slower because the cycle times are longer. If a speedy wash is your top priority, choose a top-load washer; otherwise, front-loaders are considered to be better performers in everything but price.

    Front-Load vs. Top-Load Washers
    The biggest distinction between washing machines is how they load. Front-load vs. top-load washers: see how they stack up.
    The drum of the washing machine is a close-up. The washing process. The washing machine is in operation. Foam on the door of the washing machine.
    Agitators vs. Impellers โ€” What’s the Difference?
    Washers come in all shapes and sizes. One of the most important differences is agitators versus impellers. Find out more here.

    Research Your Options

    As you can tell, many variables affect the amount of time it takes to do laundry. When you shop for a washing machine, consider convenience as a factor in your decision-making process. Account for your lifestyle, the types of fabrics you wear, and the number of loads of laundry you need to do in a week. Careful research is the key to finding a machine that will perfectly suit your needs.

    Samsung WV60A9900AV Side
    5 Best Self-Cleaning Samsung Washers With Pure Wash
    Samsung self-cleaning washers can help you maintain the cleanliness of your washer. Find out what you need to know about the top 5 best self-cleaning washers.
    WF50A8800AV
    The Best Samsung 5-Cu. Ft. Front-Load Washers
    Are you looking for the perfect smart Samsung washer to fit your needs? Uncover everything you need to know about the top Samsung 5-Cu. Ft Front Load washers.
    Costway EP24460 Side
    Top 4, Best Performing Portable Washing Machines
    Need to keep your clothes clean while you're on the go? Check out the features and benefits of our four best portable washing machines.
    Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email

    Related Posts

    Why Do Washing Machines Sometimes Squeak When They Agitate?

    August 10, 2022

    LG Washing Machine Making Noise When Draining? Here’s What It Could Be

    August 5, 2022

    Most Reliable Top-Load Washing Machine With Agitator

    July 28, 2022

    Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

    Search Washers & Dryers 360
    Sections
    • Brands
    • Washers
    • Dryers
    Best Selling Dryers
    Bestseller No. 1 Kenmore 29' Front Load Electric Dryer with Wrinkle Guard and 7.0 Cubic Ft. Total Capacity, White
    Kenmore 29" Front Load Electric Dryer with Wrinkle Guard and 7.0 Cubic Ft. Total Capacity, White
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 2 Clothes Dryer Portable Travel Mini 900W dryer machine,Portable dryer for apartments,Nekithia New Generation Electric Clothes Drying
    Clothes Dryer Portable Travel Mini 900W dryer machine,Portable dryer for apartments,Nekithia New Generation Electric Clothes Drying
    $59.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 3 Portable Dryer,110V 1000W Electric Clothes Dryer Machine Double layer Stackable Clothes Drying Rack for Apartments, RV,Laundry,and More
    Portable Dryer,110V 1000W Electric Clothes Dryer Machine Double layer Stackable Clothes Drying Rack for Apartments, RV,Laundry,and More
    $72.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 4 Kenmore 29' Front Load Electric Dryer with Wrinkle Guard and 7.0 Cubic Ft. Total Capacity, White
    Kenmore 29" Front Load Electric Dryer with Wrinkle Guard and 7.0 Cubic Ft. Total Capacity, White
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 5 Xiaqing Clothes Dryer Portable Fast 1000W Dryer Machine,Portable Dryer for Apartments,New Generation Electric Clothes Drying
    Xiaqing Clothes Dryer Portable Fast 1000W Dryer Machine,Portable Dryer for Apartments,New Generation Electric Clothes Drying
    $76.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Best Selling Washers
    Bestseller No. 1 Kenmore 28' Top-Load Washer with Triple Action Agitator and 4.2 Cubic Ft. Total Capacity, White
    Kenmore 28" Top-Load Washer with Triple Action Agitator and 4.2 Cubic Ft. Total Capacity, White
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 2 INTERGREAT Portable Washing Machine Mini 17.6 Lbs Compact Washer Machine And Dryer Combo๏ผŒSmall Twin Tub Washer with Spin Cycle for Laundry, Camping, Apartments, Dorms, College Rooms, Rvโ€™s (Grey)
    INTERGREAT Portable Washing Machine Mini 17.6 Lbs Compact Washer Machine And Dryer Combo๏ผŒSmall Twin Tub Washer with Spin Cycle for Laundry, Camping, Apartments, Dorms, College Rooms, Rvโ€™s (Grey)
    $119.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 3 Portable Washing Machine - Foldable Mini Small Portable Washer Washing Machine with Drain Basket for Apartment, Laundry, Camping, RV, Travel, Underwear, Personal, Baby - (110V-200V) - Pink
    Portable Washing Machine - Foldable Mini Small Portable Washer Washing Machine with Drain Basket for Apartment, Laundry, Camping, RV, Travel, Underwear, Personal, Baby - (110V-200V) - Pink
    $165.59
    Buy on Amazon
    SaleBestseller No. 4 VIVOHOME Electric Portable 2 in 1 Twin Tub Mini Laundry Washer and Spin Dryer Combo Washing Machine with Drain Hose for Apartments 13.5lbs Black & White
    VIVOHOME Electric Portable 2 in 1 Twin Tub Mini Laundry Washer and Spin Dryer Combo Washing Machine with Drain Hose for Apartments 13.5lbs Black & White
    $239.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 5 BLACK+DECKER BPWM16W Portable Washer, White
    BLACK+DECKER BPWM16W Portable Washer, White
    $306.67
    Buy on Amazon
    Popular Posts
    Best Selling Dryer Accessories
    Bestseller No. 1 Holikme Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit Clothes Dryer Lint Vent Trap Cleaner Brush & Refrigerator Coil Brush Lint Remover, Blue
    Holikme Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit Clothes Dryer Lint Vent Trap Cleaner Brush & Refrigerator Coil Brush Lint Remover, Blue
    $12.95
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 2 Cenipar Dryer Vent Hose-4 inch Ducting Vent Hose(4 inch 10 feet) with 2 Clamps and STV-90 Dryer Duct Connector Dryer Hose Snap fit 4in vent ducting
    Cenipar Dryer Vent Hose-4 inch Ducting Vent Hose(4 inch 10 feet) with 2 Clamps and STV-90 Dryer Duct Connector Dryer Hose Snap fit 4in vent ducting
    $35.99
    Buy on Amazon
    SaleBestseller No. 3 Sealegend 2 Pieces Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit and Dryer Lint Brush Vacuum Hose Attachment Brush Lint Remover Power Washer and Dryer Vent Vacuum Hose
    Sealegend 2 Pieces Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit and Dryer Lint Brush Vacuum Hose Attachment Brush Lint Remover Power Washer and Dryer Vent Vacuum Hose
    $11.95
    Buy on Amazon
    SaleBestseller No. 4 Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit Vacuum Hose Attachment Brush Lint Remover Power Washer and Dryer Vent Vacuum Hose
    Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit Vacuum Hose Attachment Brush Lint Remover Power Washer and Dryer Vent Vacuum Hose
    $9.99
    Buy on Amazon
    SaleBestseller No. 5 25 Pieces Compatible Cloth Dryer Exhaust Filter Set Replacement for Panda/Magic Chef/Sonya/Avant
    25 Pieces Compatible Cloth Dryer Exhaust Filter Set Replacement for Panda/Magic Chef/Sonya/Avant
    $14.98
    Buy on Amazon
    Best Selling Washer Accessories
    Bestseller No. 1 Front Load Washer Door Prop, Magnetic Washing Machine Door Holder, Keep Washer Door Open, Flexible Prop Fits Most Washing Machines
    Front Load Washer Door Prop, Magnetic Washing Machine Door Holder, Keep Washer Door Open, Flexible Prop Fits Most Washing Machines
    $12.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 2 Haus Maus - The Original Laundry Guard - Keeps Laundry from Falling Behind Your Washer/Dryer - Magnetic - Fits Most Front Load Washing Machines - Made in North America (Slate Gray)
    Haus Maus - The Original Laundry Guard - Keeps Laundry from Falling Behind Your Washer/Dryer - Magnetic - Fits Most Front Load Washing Machines - Made in North America (Slate Gray)
    $31.95
    Buy on Amazon
    SaleBestseller No. 3 Little Tikes First Washer Dryer - Realistic Pretend Play Appliance for Kids, Interactive Toy Washing Machine with 11 Laundry Accessories, Unique Toy, Ages 2+
    Little Tikes First Washer Dryer - Realistic Pretend Play Appliance for Kids, Interactive Toy Washing Machine with 11 Laundry Accessories, Unique Toy, Ages 2+
    $31.99
    Buy on Amazon
    SaleBestseller No. 4 Simpson Cleaning 80165 Universal Scrubber 15' Steel Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner for Cold Water Machines, 1/4' Quick Connection, Rated Up to 3700 PSI, Black
    Simpson Cleaning 80165 Universal Scrubber 15" Steel Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner for Cold Water Machines, 1/4" Quick Connection, Rated Up to 3700 PSI, Black
    $69.99
    Buy on Amazon
    SaleBestseller No. 5 Facial Cleansing Brush by Olay Regenerist, Face Exfoliator with 2 Brush Heads
    Facial Cleansing Brush by Olay Regenerist, Face Exfoliator with 2 Brush Heads
    $17.96
    Buy on Amazon
    Newsletter Sign Up
    Subscribe
    Sign Up to our free newsletter and get the latest washer dryer reviews directly to your inbox.
    Marketing by
    ActiveCampaign
    Navigate
    • Brands
    • Washers
    • Dryers
    Site Information
    • About Us
    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclaimer
    • Contact Us
    • How Star Ratings Work
    Follow Us
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Instagram
    Powered By The DealNews Network

    501 Madison St SE Suite 200
    Huntsville, AL 35801
    (256)971-6840
    DealNews, Inc

    Affiliate Disclaimer

    Washers & Dryers 360 contains links to affiliate websites, and we may earn commissions for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. Learn more about our affiliate disclaimer.

    © 2022 DealNews. Built by Press Foundry.

    Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.