The cycle speed refers to the speed and force at which clothes are agitated in the wash and spin cycles. Always opt for the shortest possible cycle to get the job done the less time garments spend being spun around in the wash, the longer they'll last. Use shorter cycles for less soiled and delicate clothing, and longer cycles for heavily soiled and bulky items. The cycle length (sometimes just called 'timer') is how long the machine will clean your clothes. Note, though, that on some machines these functions are separate of one another, allowing for greater control and customization of your wash, while in other machines cycle length, speed and water temperature settings are linked. There are three functions - cycle length, cycle speed and water temperature - that can help you better understand washer settings and the effect they have on your launderables. Wirecutter, a New York Times company, has spent hours testing laundry products and you’ll see I reference them when they’ve reviewed products I recommend. The thing about your laundry is that it's yours. If you have favorite methods or products, or just feel better treating your washables to a proverbial boiling, by all means, march on. We’ve also added a section on washing your face mask, which has become an essential step of staying safe and comfortable. This guide aims to help you understand your machines, how fabric types behave and the methods for treating common problems like stains, dinginess and odor - all with the important caveat that laundry is a personal endeavor. But questions are great! Because knowledge is power and can make doing laundry easier and more effective. For many of us, it’s one of those chores we learned to do from our parents, a dormmate, a significant other or whoever else, and then we stop asking questions. It's time-consuming, unceasing and there is so very much that can go wrong.

Laundry can be frustrating, even for a laundry enthusiast.

New wash