What is permanent press?

You’ve probably seen the “Permanent Press” label on a wide range of clothes, as well as on your washer and dryer. But what does the Permanent Press cycle mean? How do you wash and dry clothes using the Permanent Press cycles, and can you use these settings for everything? If you’re looking for more information on the Permanent Press cycle, this guide can help you learn about the benefits of this special cycle.

Learn more about Permanent Press vs Normal cycle, the benefits of using and how to use the Permanent Press cycle in the washer and dryer.

What does permanent press mean?

Permanent press refers to clothes that can remain minimally wrinkled if you wash and dry them properly. Permanent press clothes are often made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or specially treated to guard against wrinkles.

What is a Permanent Press cycle on my washer or dryer?

A Permanent Press cycle refers to either a washer or dryer cycle that can help remove or reduce wrinkles. On Whirlpool^® Front Load Washers and Dryers, the Permanent Press cycle is denoted as the “Casual” or “Wrinkle Control” cycle. This washer cycle uses warm water and slower spin cycles to help release existing wrinkles while minimizing the creation of new wrinkles. The dryer cycle uses medium heat and an additional cool down period to help keep clothes from wrinkling or creasing.

What temperature is a Permanent Press cycle?

The Permanent Press cycle helps prevent wrinkles from setting in by using a longer cool down spray rinse along with a normal wash and spin speed in the washer. In the dryer, this cycle uses controlled heat at about 135° F and a post cycle routine to help prevent wrinkles from setting in. Exact methods and temperatures vary by make, model and platform.

Can you use the Permanent Press cycle for all clothes?

In comparison to regular cycles, the Permanent Press cycle is gentle, meaning that most clothes can be washed and dried on this cycle. However, it may not be gentle enough for delicates such as undergarments, sweaters and lingerie. Always refer to the care guidance on your garment label for the best washing and drying instructions.

What are the benefits of using Permanent Press cycles?

In addition to synthetic fabrics, you can use the Permanent Press cycle to wash and dry natural fibers that wrinkle easily. Permanent Press settings are gentle on clothes—some dryers switch from warm air to room temperature air toward the end of the cycle, putting less stress on clothing fibers.

While the Permanent Press cycle can be used on a wide range of clothes, this setting is not recommended as a substitute for a delicate wash. Use the Delicate cycle for any clothing labeled “delicate.”

Does the Permanent Press cycle shrink clothes?

Since the Permanent Press cycle uses a lower temperature than regular cycles, it is a more gentle cycle, but always check the care label for drying instructions. The lower temperatures and slower spin of the cycle can help reduce wrinkles without damaging clothes.

How should you use a Permanent Press cycle?

Sort your clothing based on fabric, color and care instructions. Place your permanent press clothes into your washing machine and load your favorite detergent¹. Select the Permanent Press setting, then remove your clothes promptly once the cycle is complete. Leaving your clothes in the washing machine for too long between washing and drying cycles can cause them to compress in a damp environment—perfect for setting wrinkles.

How do you use the Permanent Press dryer cycle?

When the wash cycle is over, place your clothes in the dryer and again select the Permanent Press cycle. Double-check the labels—if your items are made from wrinkle resistant fabric, such as wool or spandex, remove them from the dryer while they are still damp and hang them up to air dry. Permanent press clothes can stay in the dryer until the cycle is complete. Once finished, remove your clothes and hang them promptly. This will help keep them from wrinkling.

Explore Whirlpool^® Washers and Dryer Sets

Washer and dryer cycles can help you care for your clothes and keep them looking their best. Learn more about the different laundry symbols on your garment’s care tags to determine which cycles are best for your clothes. Whirlpool^® Laundry Appliances come with a range of features that can help make laundry day more manageable. Explore the range of Whirlpool^® Washers and Dryers to find the right fit for your laundry room.

Tackle laundry day with washer and dryer cycles made to streamline your routine. With convenient features on select models including the Load & Go™ Dispenser as well as Refresh cycles, which help prevent wrinkles from setting in, Whirlpool^® Washers and Dryers offer a variety of functions designed to help you do more to care for your family’s laundry.