How Long Does a Washer Take? The Complete Guide

Are you wondering how long a washer takes? Did you spill something on your best top right before rushing out for that job interview? Do you have a messy child or pet who always seems to know which clothes you’ll need when you’re walking out the door? We’ve got you covered! In this article, you’ll learn how long a washing machine cycle takes and how to reduce that time.

We’ll discuss:

What is the average time for a washing machine cycle in a top load and front load washer?
Why are washing machine cycles so long?
How long does final spin take?
Why is my washing machine taking so long?
Is a 15 minute wash enough?
How long do washing machines last?

What is the Average Time for a Washing Machine Cycle?

Washing machines can take anywhere from 15 minutes to two hours. On average, you can expect to wait about an hour for a normal load to cycle through the wash.

Larger or bulkier loads such as towels or thick blankets will take more time, while smaller loads such as delicates will take less time.

This can, of course, vary depending on how large your load is and the settings on your washing machine.

Modern machines will typically have a timer at the top, which shows you exactly how long to expect your washing to take.

Wash Cycle Times for Top Load Washers

High efficiency top load washers take 60-80 minutes on average to wash your laundry. They are faster than front loading washers, though less energy efficient.

Wash Cycle Times for Front Load Washers

High efficiency front load washers take 75-120 minutes to wash your laundry on average. While these machines tend to be more energy efficient than top loaders, they do have longer wash cycles.

Why are Washing Machine Cycles so Long?

Washing machine cycles take a long time because they are built to conserve electricity and water. This is great for the planet and your wallet, but does take more time in the end.

Cycles are also longer the more cleaning is needed. For instance, you can run some lightly-used clothing items through a quick wash that takes as low as 15 minutes, but if you’re washing bedding or another bulky item that’s been stained this will take longer.

Unfortunately, there’s no way around this in many cases. Handwashing typically takes much longer, and quick washes just aren’t made for all items.

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How Long does Final Spin Take?

The spin cycle on a washing machine wrings as much water from your clothes as possible so that they don’t go into the dryer dripping wet. Your laundry is spun around quickly in the machine to achieve this, and the process takes only a few minutes to complete.

Why is my Washing Machine Taking so Long?

If your washing machine is taking longer than usual to clean your laundry, it’s possible that it’s broken. It could also be a user error, meaning you’re not using your machine correctly.

Problems that can make washing machine cycles take longer include:

Large loads
Unbalanced loads
Wrong wash cycle or additional cycles set
Broken load system or control panel
Broken water inlet valve
Low voltage
Too much detergent

To troubleshoot, first ensure you’re using your machine correctly. Double-check your cycle settings and follow the instructions that came with your washer and your laundry items in order to clean them correctly.

Avoid overloading the machine and try to wash like items together to avoid an unbalanced load. For example, wash throw blankets separately to clothing items because the blankets are likely much heavier.

If you are sure you’re using your machine properly, it’s likely a deeper issue. Check for the above technical difficulties yourself or hire a professional to fix your machine.

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Is a 15 Minute Wash Enough?

Many washing machines have a “quick wash” cycle that can clean your laundry in as little as 15 minutes. Some people question whether this is too good to be true, and if it’ll actually clean your laundry.

A 15 minute cycle can clean your laundry when used correctly, but you should not choose the quick wash setting for all of your laundry. It’s best for lightly-used items such as your everyday clothes. Don’t use quick wash for stained or very dirty items.

For instance, a pair of pants you’ve worn to the office a few times should be okay, especially if you forgot to throw the washing in last night. Your child’s muddy clothes from playing outside in the rain should be run through a full cycle, however!

A quick wash will save you time, energy, and money. When used properly, it’ll even keep your clothes looking newer for longer.

The last thing to keep in mind is the temperature on your cycle. Some clothing requires a low temperature setting, but you do want to ensure you’re washing your clothes on high enough heat to kill bacteria.