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Washing Machine Spin Speed
What do I need to know about spin speed?
Before you buy a new washing machine there are a few things to consider. You might have already decided on a brand, colour or energy rating, but what about spin speed? Our washing machine spin speed guide will talk you through everything you need to know. From how spin speed is measured, to which speed you need for different types of fabric. We’ll also debunk any common myths, so you can make an informed choice.
What is spin speed?
Spin speed is measured in RPM – revolutions per minute. This is how many times a washing machine’s drum will rotate per minute. The faster the spin, the more water can be extracted from your clothes, meaning they will be drier when taken out of the washing machine.
Most modern washing machines usually range between 1100rpm – 1600rpm.
Can I manually adjust the spin speed?
Different wash programmes will have a pre set spin speed which is recommended for that cycle. However you can usually adjust the spin speed settings on washing machines and washer dryers to suit your needs. For instance, if it’s a sunny day you could save some energy by choosing a lower spin speed and drying your clothes on the line.
Advantages of higher spin speeds
What spin speed should I use?
Different fabrics suit different spin speeds. For example, heavy duty fabrics such as cotton and denim take longer to dry and therefore work best with a faster spin speed between 900-1600rpm. Delicates and silks need more gentle treatment, you should use a slower speed between 400-600rpm. You can find out more about from the laundry experts at Hotpoint. It is always best to check wash care labels and the manufacturer’s instruction manual.
Common Spin Speed Myths
Myth 1: Higher spin speeds will ruin your clothes
Incorrect! Higher spin speeds will not ruin your clothes when you use the appropriate settings. High spin speeds are ideal for cottons and bulky items such as towels and bedding and denim. These fabrics can handle the power of the top speeds. If your machine is maintained to a good standard you shouldn’t see any damage to your laundry.
It is important to note that delicate or heavily embellished items could get damaged at a higher spin setting. Not sure which option you need? Check the care labels on each item before you wash them.
Myth 2: The higher the spin speed the better!
You’d be forgiven for thinking the higher the spin speed, the better however it’s not as straight forward as that. You need to think about your requirements. If you wear a lot of delicate items, a high spin speed is unlikely to benefit you. Delicates need to be washed at a much lower speed. If you wear lots of shirts then again, a lower spin speed is best as this will help to reduce creasing.
You can always adjust the spin speed to a lower setting when required. So choosing a washing machine that offers higher spin speeds will give you more flexibility.
Myth 3: High spin speeds damage your machine
False again! Some believe that higher spin speeds will put more stress on the internal parts of a washing machine, increasing the wear and tear. However washing machines are designed to withstand these spin speeds. With technology more advanced than ever, you can be confident in the reliability of your machine.
Some washing machines use brushless Invertor motors and Direct Drive technology. By removing unnecessary belts and pulleys, using magnetic power, the inside parts are more streamlined, making them even more reliable.
Myth 4: Higher spin speeds shrink your clothes
This can be true for some items! Certain materials such as wool will shrink on a high spin setting. However, if you’re washing cotton shirts and bedding on high spin speeds, there should be no shrinkage. We always recommend checking the care label on each item and the right wash programme on your machine to ensure you’re washing using the right settings.
Myth 5: Loud noise is caused by spin speed
Not true. A noisy washing machine is a symptom of an unbalanced load or problem with the machine itself. Make sure you untangle your garments before putting them in the drum otherwise they’ll clump together and cause an uneven balance. As the drum turns, this causes additional noise. If you want one of the quietest washing machines on the market, browse our Quiet Mark certified models!
Myth 3: High spin speeds are great for delicates!
Definitely not true! Delicate items are more likely to be damaged when you’re using the higher spin speeds. Fabric such as wools, silks and lace are more suited to lower settings between 400-600rpm. Most washing machines have wash programmes to suit delicates or wool washes that use lower temperatures and spin settings to protect your garments.
Conclusion:
Hopefully our guide has answered all of your spin speed related questions! To summarise, always check your clothes care labels and most suitable wash programmes for the optimal results. Delicate clothing requires lower spin speeds whereas heavier fabrics will benefit from a faster spin. You can adjust the settings accordingly for each cycle to suit your garments. Read our handy guide for more information on washing machine cycles.
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