A Permanent Press dryer setting is a cycle designed specifically to help remove or reduce wrinkles in clothing. This setting is distinct from standard drying cycles and is commonly found on modern dryers.
Understanding the Permanent Press Cycle
Based on the provided reference, a Permanent Press cycle is a feature available on either a washer or dryer that can help remove or reduce wrinkles. When referring to a dryer, this setting aims to gently dry clothes while minimizing creasing. On some appliances, such as Whirlpool® Front Load Washers and Dryers, this cycle may be labeled differently, often as the “Casual” or “Wrinkle Control” cycle.
How It Works
The Permanent Press dryer setting typically uses a combination of medium heat and a cool-down period.
- Medium Heat: This heat level is lower than the high heat used for heavy cottons, which helps prevent wrinkles from setting in synthetic and blended fabrics.
- Cool-Down Period: After the heated drying portion, the cycle finishes with a period of tumbling with little or no heat. This allows clothes to cool down gradually while still being tumbled, preventing creases that can form when hot clothes lie still.
When to Use the Permanent Press Setting
This cycle is ideal for specific types of fabrics and garments that are prone to wrinkling but may be sensitive to high heat.
Use the Permanent Press setting for:
- Blended Fabrics: Clothes made from a mix of natural and synthetic fibers.
- Synthetic Fabrics: Items like polyester, nylon, and rayon.
- Casual Wear: Shirts, blouses, pants, and dresses labeled as permanent press or wrinkle-resistant.
Using this setting helps maintain the shape and finish of these garments while keeping them looking smooth. For items like towels or heavy cottons, a standard or normal heat setting might be more appropriate for efficient drying.
