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- by Brodie Cook
Doing the laundry is more than just adding detergent and pressing start. The spin cycle in your washing machine plays a big role in how dry your clothes come out. The right spin speed can make laundry day easier, reduces drying time, and help your fabrics last longer.
Choosing the right setting is not just about convenience. A proper spin cycle saves energy, prevents mildew, and keeps clothes looking fresh. Pairing the correct spin speed with gentle laundry sheets means you get clean clothes without the wear and tear that harsh detergents can cause.
What Is a Spin Cycle in a Washing Machine?
The spin cycle is the final step in most wash cycles. It uses the washing machine’s drum to spin clothes at high speed, pushing out excess water with centrifugal force. This leaves clothes lighter, less wet, and easier to dry.
Spin cycles are measured in RPM (revolutions per minute). A higher RPM means more water is removed, which reduces drying time on a line or in a dryer. Lower RPMs are gentler on fabrics but leave more moisture behind.
The primary purpose of the spin cycle is simple: remove as much water as possible so your clothes are not dripping wet. A well‑set spin cycle also helps reduce wrinkles, prevents mildew, and makes ironing easier.
Choosing the Right Spin Setting for Different Fabrics
The right spin cycle setting depends on the type of fabric in your load. Spin speed controls how much water is removed and how much stress is placed on your clothes.
| Spin Speed (RPM) | Best For | Benefits | Risks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 400–600 RPM | Delicates and woollens like silk, lace, and knitwear | Gentle on fabrics, prevents stretching and damage | Leaves clothes wetter, longer drying |
| 600–800 RPM | Everyday cottons and linens | Balanced water removal, suitable for daily laundry | Moderate wrinkles possible |
| 800–1200 RPM | Heavy fabrics like towels, jeans, and bedding | Removes more water, shortens drying time | Can cause creases |
| 1200+ RPM | Sturdy fabrics only | Maximum water extraction, faster drying indoors or in a dryer | Too harsh for delicate items |
Delicates such as silk, lace, or wool should never be washed on a 1200 RPM spin. The high force can stretch fibres, weaken seams, and leave fabrics misshapen. Stick to a gentle cycle to help these items last longer.
Cottons and linens handle medium spin speeds well, giving a good balance between drying time and fabric care. For heavy items like towels, jeans, or bedding, a higher spin speed helps cut drying time in half.
Always avoid overloading your washing machine. An overloaded drum reduces efficiency, leaves clothes wetter, and can even damage the washer itself.
How Spin Cycles Save Time and Energy
The right spin speed does more than dry clothes. It helps you save time, reduce costs, and keep fabrics fresh.
-
Faster Drying
Higher RPM removes more water. Clothes spend less time on the line or in the dryer. -
Lower Power Bills
A strong spin cuts dryer time. Even though the washer uses a bit more power, the overall saving is greater. -
Better for Aussie Line Drying
In hot or humid summers, a high spin helps clothes dry quicker outdoors. -
Prevents Mildew and Odours
Damp laundry can smell musty. The spin cycle extracts water to keep clothes fresher. -
Gentle on Fabrics With the Right Setting
Using the correct spin for each fabric reduces wear and helps clothes last longer.
Common Spin Cycle Problems and Fixes
Clothes Still Dripping Wet
This often happens when the drum is overloaded or the load is unbalanced. Reduce the load size and spread items evenly. If the problem continues, check for a clogged drain.
Washing Machine Shaking or Noisy
A shaking washer usually means the load isn’t balanced. Pause the cycle and redistribute the clothes before restarting. Make sure the machine is level on the floor.
Creases After High Spin
High spin speeds can wrinkle synthetics and delicates. Switch to a lower spin for these fabrics to reduce ironing and keep them in better condition.
Spin Cycle Stopping Early
Modern washers often stop if they detect an unbalanced load. Try washing smaller loads or mixing heavy and light items to help balance the drum.
Unpleasant Smells After Washing
Clothes left damp in the drum can develop mildew and odours. Remove laundry as soon as the cycle finishes and run an occasional hot wash to keep the drum clean.
TIP: Also read on how to clean a washer
FAQ about Spin Cycles
Can I skip the spin cycle to save time?
You can skip it, but your clothes will come out much wetter. They will take far longer to dry on the line or in a dryer, which often uses more energy in the end. Damp clothes left sitting can also develop mildew and odours. The few minutes saved in the wash are usually lost in drying.
Why do delicates get damaged on a high spin?
High spin speeds like 1200 RPM create strong centrifugal force. This force pulls and stretches delicate fibres such as silk, lace, and wool. It can weaken seams, distort shapes, and even cause tears. Using a low spin protects the fabric and helps your delicates last longer.
How long should a spin cycle last?
Most washing machines run a spin cycle for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the selected setting and load size. Heavier items such as towels and jeans may run longer at high RPMs, while delicates and woollens usually have shorter, gentler spins.
Does spin speed affect ironing?
Yes. High spins remove more water, which speeds up drying, but they can also create deeper creases. Clothes like cotton shirts may need more ironing if spun at top speed. Lower spin speeds reduce wrinkles, so delicate or synthetic fabrics often come out looking smoother.
Can the spin cycle help prevent mildew?
Absolutely. Mildew and musty odours form when clothes sit damp for too long. The spin cycle extracts most of the water so clothes dry faster, either on the line or in a dryer. This makes it less likely for mould or bacteria to grow in the fabric.
