5 pieces of clothing that should always wash in the delicate cycle of the machine

A most washing machine has a delicate cycle for parts that require extra care. Unlike normal, this cycle is less agitated, and the drum rotates at a slower speed and the water temperature is lower. 

Although this cycle can be used for most parts, there are situations where it is mandatory. Martha Stewart's website highlights five. 

1. Bras, lingerie and stockings 

Intimate parts such as bras, lingerie and stockings are usually made with elastic fibers and thinner, so that they fit well to the body. However, this flexibility can also make them more vulnerable to excessive agitation and centrifugation in a normal cycle. 

“ These pieces are more likely to stretch, shred, form borbotes or lose shape during a more aggressive wash,” Boyd notes.

Using the delicate cycle helps minimize friction and traction that can damage the elastic, straps, hooks and their fragile structure in general.

2. Textile fabrics of silk and transparent 

Silk is a natural fiber and more delicate, so the more abrupt agitation can exert unnecessary pressure on the fibers. 

“ The delicate cycle uses less aggressive agitation and slower centrifugation speed”, says cleaning professional Kellsie Zapata, founder of Zapata’s Cleaning Services. “This helps reduce friction on the fabric.”.

The water temperature also matters, especially for delicate fibers. “I recommend avoiding hot water in delicate fabrics, because heat can contribute to shrinking, fading and damage to fibers,” he says.

Tip: always separate your clothes to ensure that delicate pieces do not mix with other items that may damage them. 

3. Mesh, cashmere and wool

Knitted fabrics are more likely to lose their shape when subjected to much traction and agitation. Cashmere and wool, on the other hand, are more heat sensitive fibers, which may contribute to shrinking in high temperature washing cycles.

“ This lower rotation speed is important, because the faster the rotation, the greater the stretching that is achieved”, notes Zapata. “In pieces such as knitted pieces, this extra force can change the shape of the piece”. 

Note that even a delicate cycle may not be suitable for all mesh or natural fiber parts. “I recommend that people check the care label first, as some of these parts may need to be washed dry or by hand,” Zapata adds.

4. Embroidered clothing

Parts with sequins, beads, embroidery or other applications require extra care, since decorative elements can loosen during washing or attach to other fabrics, damaging both.

“ It is not advisable to wash delicate pieces along with heavy or abrasive items such as towels, jeans or clothes with many metallic details ", highlighted.

5. High quality bed linen

Top quality sheets, blankets and quilts may seem resistant enough to withstand normal washing, however, a decorative construction such as fringes can make them more vulnerable. 

“ Although some of these pieces seem robust, their construction can still be fragile ", highlights Zapata. “When you put them in a more aggressive washing cycle, this extra movement and traction can cause damage or wear on the details.”.