Useful program: intensive wash - what is it and what is it for?

Intensive wash, as the name suggests, is designed to process heavily soiled items.

This mode is included in the set of built-in programs for most washing machine manufacturers.

Despite the high quality of washing, the use of intensive has a number of limitations and a list of features of use.

What does this mode mean?

Vigorous processing means effective washing of difficult stains with high power of the washing machine. In order for dirty laundry to be washed efficiently, it must first be sorted (by color, type of material, condition, etc.).

Information from the product label about the processing features of each specific item is also taken into account. Taking into account all these criteria, a suitable mode is selected.

Intensive washing takes place even in more severe conditions than the “cotton” program.

Distinctive processing features:

• high temperature conditions (up to 95ºС);
• drum rotation at high speed.

Not all types of materials can be processed under such conditions. And it is advisable to use such washing only when the dirt is very strong and/or old. Linen and cotton tolerate this effect best.

Key Features

It is used in cases where it is necessary to wash heavily soiled items and if other more gentle modes are not able to wash the laundry. The very term “intensive washing” indicates that the automatic machine will work at the limit of its capabilities, consuming a lot of water, electrical energy and washing powder.

The process itself occurs in several stages, the temperature is extremely high, and the drum rotates as quickly as possible. These conditions help get rid of strong and stubborn stains. Only the most durable and unpretentious fabrics can withstand such a test, otherwise the item will either “shrink” or fade. In some models, this program is called “boiling”, which is not far from the truth.

Purpose and application features

The main purpose of such washing is the high-quality removal of contaminants from things that other modes present on the washing machine cannot cope with.

Since the things placed in the drum are very dirty, it is not worth filling the machine completely . The best option is to put half of the standard load into the drum, or even better - a quarter.

At the same time, it is also not worth starting a work cycle with a practically empty drum - the processing efficiency will be reduced.

This is due to the fact that in a tightly filled drum it will be more difficult for the detergent to dissolve. And the washing machine will not be able to turn them over properly during the washing process so that the impact on contamination is as strong as possible.

Intensive processing, in addition to heating water to high temperatures, also involves strong rotation of the drum . Not all materials can withstand high speeds either. The most persistent of them, which can be influenced with high energy, are linen and cotton.

In washing machines from different manufacturers, particularly effective washing may be designated differently. This circumstance can be clarified in the instructions for a specific model.

Eg:

• The program is signed with the words;
• in Samsung - there may be a verbal description and/or a schematic image of a T-shirt with spots;
• in Indesit - pictogram of a T-shirt with spots, etc.

If your existing washing machine does not automatically determine the intensity of drum rotation, then for effective washing you should focus on the following parameters:

• synthetics – 600 rpm;
• jeans – 800 rpm;
• cotton – from 1100 rpm.

Intensive processing is not suitable for damaged items and worn-out fabrics!

Intensive cycle in different brands of washing machines

In Bosch automatic machines, intensive washing is indicated by the symbol of a T-shirt with stains, sometimes signed as “Energetic”. In most models, you can select the temperature at which it will occur - it is 60°C or 90°C. Performed at a speed of 1200 rpm. Suitable for durable textiles made of cotton and linen, resistant to boiling and mechanical stress.

On the panel of a Samsung washing machine, the program in question is also indicated by a dirty T-shirt icon. Some new models have the “Intensive Eco Wash” function, which allows you to get rid of even heavy soiling in just 60-120 minutes. This option combines softness and intensity, and is suitable even for delicate fabrics. Sometimes Eco involves the use of powders with enzymes. Their active components perfectly break down proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

In the Indesit machines, in the standard programs section, there are three modes for removing stubborn stains, two of which are designed for linen and cotton. This is a cycle with a soak at 90°C and an option without soaking at a similar temperature. For synthetic fabrics there is a separate thorough cleaning mode at 60°C. At the same time, the design of most Indesit models allows you to adjust the automatically set water temperature and drum rotation speed.

In some Ariston automatic machines this cycle is designated as “Stain removal”. The water is heated to 90°C, spinning occurs at maximum speed, and the process takes 165 minutes. There is also an Antibacterial program, using which you don’t have to worry that pathogenic bacteria will remain on your things.

Whatever brand of machine you have, they are all similar when it comes to thoroughly removing dirt. Stubborn stains can only be washed in almost boiling water, at maximum speed and in no less than an hour and a half. Only cotton, linen and some synthetic products can withstand this test. If you take this important rule into account, then your favorite things will not lose their attractive appearance for a long time and will delight you with their cleanliness.

Execution steps

This processing mode has its own characteristics. The algorithm of actions for the SMA user should be as follows:

1. 
   Place things in the drum based on a load of 25-50% of the maximum.

2. Pour the detergent into the compartment of the cuvette, which is designed for pre-washing.
3. Pour the detergent into the compartment intended for the main cycle.
4. If necessary, add the required product to the conditioner compartment.
5. Select a program from the control panel.
6. Start the job.

The total consumption of detergent will be twice as much as with normal processing.

Washing before washing

Pre-washing is often compared to soaking. However, this is not a completely fair comparison. This mode replaces manual washing of clothes. It is used if things are very dirty or have stubborn stains. For example, when you need to wash work clothes, a tablecloth accidentally spilled with drinks, or children's pants in which the child fell into a puddle.

How long does the cycle last?

The duration of the program depends on the manufacturer, model of the specific device and additional settings.

The washing time is influenced by the following factors:

• the drum is loaded with things;
• the volume of the drum itself;
• rate of water intake from the water supply;
• water heating temperature;
• the specified number of drum revolutions.

How long does the machine wash in this mode? Average indicators of processing stages (without reference to a specific SMA model):

1. Soaking or pre-washing – 15-25 minutes, during which the dirt is effectively saturated with the detergent solution.
2. Wash with the drum slowly rotating (15–30 min.).
3. Rapid rotation of the drum, intensive washing at high temperature (on average 25-30 minutes).
4. Slow drum rotation (up to 20 minutes).
5. Rinsing.
6. Intensive spin at high speeds.

On average, a full cycle ranges from an hour to 1.5 hours or even more. The exact time depends on the manufacturer of the equipment, the specific model of the automatic washing machine and some other factors.

At the end of the washing machine's operation, it should be given time to rest without immediately loading a new batch of laundry into the drum. Without filling the pre-treatment compartment with washing powder, intensive washing will not be effective.

Advantages and disadvantages

Pre-washing in a washing machine is a delicate process; it does not harm even capricious fabrics. Any item that can be washed in a machine can be subjected to this procedure.

• The advantage of using the program is efficiency.

Any laundry that is first washed in cool and then in hot water will be cleaner than with normal washing. Using this mode in the machine, you will be sure that all the dirt will go down the drain and you will not have to rewash things.

• The disadvantage is the inability to save resources.

When using the additional function, the washing machine uses more electricity and water than with the standard program. It is for this reason that many housewives prefer to wash things by hand.

There is one more parameter - time, which can be written down as both pros and cons. On the one hand, a machine with the function turned on takes longer to wash. On the other hand, he does the manual work for you. You can do something else while doing laundry.

What is the water heating temperature?

Particularly effective processing of things should be carried out only at high temperatures.

This is a necessary condition for the effective removal of contaminants, including extensive or ingrained and old ones. As a rule, manufacturers set the temperature range within 90 - 95ºС .

Artificially lowering the processing temperature makes washing no longer so effective.

How often do you turn on extreme sports?

The optimal frequency of extreme washing is no more than 2-3 times a month. Not all users are familiar with this mode and not everyone knows in what cases to use it. There is nothing bad for the machine that the enhanced washing function is not activated. The downside here is for users who cannot properly wash heavily soiled jeans or T-shirts. If you do not exceed the specified washing frequency, the SMA will not be affected.

Advantages and disadvantages

Intensive wash is one of the useful programs when you need to tidy up very dirty items. This mode has its strengths and weaknesses, which should be taken into account in advance, before starting work.

The advantages include the following:

• effective removal of even difficult stains, including old ones;
• Suitable for dense materials that can withstand high temperatures.

The disadvantages include the following circumstances:

• The option may not be used for all types of fabrics;
• intensive processing accelerates material wear;
• washing at high temperatures helps wash out colors from prints;
• this is not a short program;
• the mode accelerates the wear of the washing machine elements;
• the drum cannot be filled to the maximum, so fewer things are processed in one cycle;
• It is advisable to use a particularly effective washing program not often - a maximum of 2 times a month;
• washing powder consumption doubles;
• things after processing are very wrinkled;
• the program is executed with a high consumption of resources.

When choosing a detergent for treatment, it must be taken into account that the powder must be suitable for washing at high temperatures. This information is displayed on the packaging.

Frequent use of the intensive mode can harm the washing machine itself, so it is recommended to use this functionality not often, and only when absolutely necessary.

What fabrics cannot be washed intensively?

Manufacturers recommend storing particularly soiled items for better and more thorough washing in intensive mode. Clothes must be made from strong and reliable fibers that will not come apart at the seams in the washing machine drum. And here you can put a ban on the following types of fabrics:

• natural or artificial silk;
• natural wool;
• cashmere or mohair;
• any shoes and outerwear.

If you load similar things into the washing machine and turn on the intensive washing mode, then you can immediately say goodbye to your favorite clothes forever - they simply will not withstand the enormous speed and several serious washing operations.

Use for delicate fabrics

If you need to wash a soiled item made of wool, silk, tulle or other delicate material, you cannot use the “intensive wash” mode of the washing machine.

In this case, alternative processing will be the way out:

1. Pre-soaking.
2. Use a suitable stain remover.
3. Separate washing of problem areas, etc.

It is important:

• use only the appropriate temperature regime (it, like other useful information, is indicated on the label of the item);
• carefully choose household chemicals;
• vary the force of impact on the material;
• Do not expose the material to detergent, water or mechanical action for a long time.

In most cases, even delicate items can be washed without negative consequences if you follow the rules.

What fabric can be washed on an intensive cycle?

Not all fabrics can be washed intensively

Users of washing machines should be aware that not every fabric can withstand high temperatures and high-speed mechanical torsion in the drum. The clothing label should contain a recommendation about using an intensive cycle - this is the information that needs to be taken into account when choosing a washing program. What types of fabrics are suitable:

• cotton or polyester;
• natural linen;
• artificial fabric or synthetics.

At the same time, you need to know that intensive washing of clothes occurs practically in boiling water - the temperature in the tank reaches 90-95 degrees. Experts say: things will be washed more thoroughly if the washing machine drum is filled to a maximum of 2/3 of the full load. But the minimum value must be at least 1/4, otherwise the operation is pointless.

Washing rules

Choosing the right modes protects things from damage and rapid aging. Even the smartest and most expensive automatic machine will not be able to give things cleanliness and shine if the owner has not been able to prepare it and the laundry for work and set the necessary conditions.

Rules for preparing laundry for washing:

• Pre-sort items according to fabric color, composition and level of contamination.
• Bed linen is freed from feathers, debris and threads accumulated in the corners.
• Check pockets and empty them of all objects and dust.
• Fasten all the buttons. The zippers are fastened and secured.
• Separate belts, hoods, and other removable parts. Remove items that cannot be washed.
• All parts of one garment should be washed together so that they have the same appearance after washing. Even if individual parts do not need to be washed, it is better to load them with the rest.
• The sewn beads are secured. Decorative elements that may fly off are sewn up with thin fabric.
• Pants, skirts, knitted items are turned inside out.
• For complex products, special mesh bags are used.
• If you need to wash bulky items (jackets, blankets), you can first lightly moisten them with water - this makes it easier to place them in the drum.
• To facilitate the operation of the machine, high-quality washing and rinsing, wash items of different sizes together - large and small.
• Load the machine within the recommended limits, do not push excess things with your knee.
• They use detergents for automatic machines and according to the type of laundry.
• Powders and gels are placed in the appropriate compartments without exceeding the norm.
• Set the desired mode, check the presence of cold water in the tap and start the wash.

A few more important recommendations:

• washed laundry should be immediately removed from the drum and hung up - this way things will wrinkle less and ironing will be easier;
• if there are traces of powder left in the laundry, you can start rinsing and spinning;
• Liquid and capsule detergents are better rinsed out of things.

You should not use excessive amounts of detergent - this will not improve the quality of washing, it will simply make rinsing more difficult.

Why is it important and how to correctly determine the washing mode

An incorrectly chosen option can completely “destroy” the item, making it unsuitable for further use. For example, if you wash a knitted jumper on cotton, it will turn into a throwaway rag.

When choosing, you need to take into account, first of all, the type of fabric and build on it. If SMA allows, then you can choose a mode according to the intended purpose - children's, shoes, sports - and conditions. As a rule, additional criteria, such as soaking, spinning, light ironing, additional rinsing, drying, are set by the user at his own discretion.

Signs that indicate a particular cycle are standard for all manufacturers.

Smart Diagnosis

Since we are talking about “smart” LG appliances, we cannot fail to mention Smart Diagnosis, a function that allows the machine to automatically determine the cause of the malfunction and send this data to the service center. It is enough to activate the function and hold your mobile phone to the corresponding icon on the panel, after which all the necessary data will be sent to specialists.

Almost all modern washing machines display the washing time on an interactive display. The user, by selecting the desired mode and additional options, immediately sees how long it will take the washing unit to complete the task. But, there are a number of machines that do not have a display in their design. In this case, the user cannot know the exact time required for the washing device to complete the task.

Installation and connection

To start using an automatic washing machine, it is not enough to plug it into a power outlet; you will need the services of a mechanic who will connect at least the inlet hose to the water supply. If this type of equipment has already been installed in the apartment, then the services of a locksmith are not necessary, just connect everything to the same place. You don’t have to attach the drain hose to the sewer at all; it’s enough to place it in the bathroom, for example, while washing.

At the same stage, we connect the power cord to the network; note that the outlet itself must be connected to a separate circuit breaker. This way, you will avoid unwanted equipment shutdowns that may occur due to overvoltage. If you can’t activate the washing machine yourself, call the LG service center, the local specialists will cope with any task in a matter of minutes.