Whirlpool LLR5144BQ0 User manual

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*
mm ol’
UseAndCare
A Note To You
Understanding
Washer Safety
2
3
Knowing Your
Wash&s Features 4
iI=- kg Your
asher 5
Other Features 10
Laundry Tips 12
If You Need
2ztEceor 22
Warranty 24
1-800-253-1301
I
Call us with qmstions or comments.
ONE SPEED AUTOMATIC WASHERS

A Note ToYou
Thank you for buying a Whirlpool appliance.
You have purchased a quality, world-class home appliance. Years of engineering experience have
gone into its manufacturing. To ensure many years of trouble-free operation, we have developed
this Use and Care Guide. It is full of valuable information on how to operate and maintain your
appliance properly and safely. Please read it carefully. Also, please complete and mail the Owner-
ship Registration Card provided with your appliance. This will help us notify you about any new
information on your appliance.
Your safety is important to us.
This guide contains safety symbols and statements. Please pay special attention to these symbols
and follow any instructions given. Here is a brief explanation of the use of each symbol.
This symbol will help alert you to such dangers
as personal injury, burns, fire and electrical
shock.
This symbol will help you avoid actions which
could cause product damage (scratches,
dents, etc.) and damage to your personal
property.
Our Consumer Assistance number, 1-800-253-1301, is
toll-free 24 hours a day.
If you have a question concerning your appliance’s operation, or if you need seTvice, first see ‘If
You Need Assistance Or Service” on page 22. If you need further help, call us. When calling, you
will need to know your appliance’s complete model number and serial number. You can find this
information on the model and serial number plate (see diagram on page 4). For your convenience,
we have included a handy place below for you to record these numbers, the purchase date from
the sales slip and your dealer’s name and telephone number. Keep this book and the sales slip
together in a safe place for future reference.
Model Number
Serial Number
Purchase Date
Dealer Name
Dealer Phone

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
To reduce the risk of fire, electrical *hock or injury to persons
when using your washer, follow basic precautions, Including the
l Read all instructions before using your
washer.
l Do not machine wash or machine dry
items cleaned, washed, soaked in, or
spotted with wax, paint, gasoline, oil, or
other flammable fluids. The fumes can
create a fire hazard or explosion. Always
hand wash and line dry items containing
these materials.
l Flammable fluids (dry-cleaning solvents,
kerosene, gasoline, etc.) should not be
used or stored in or near your washer. Do
not add flammable fluids to your wash
water. These substances give off vapors
that can create a fire hazard or explosion.
l Do not allow children to operate, play with,
or crawl on or inside your washer. Super-
vise children closely when your washer is
used near them.
l Before your washer is removed from
service or discarded, remove the lid to
prevent accidental entrapment.
wafter starting a cycle, do not reach into the
basket unless the Cycle Control Knob is
pushed in and all motion stops.
l Do not tamper with the controls.
l If your hot water has not been used
recently (usually 2 weeks or longer),
hydrogen gases may build up in your water
heater and your hot water pipes. HYDRO-
GEN GAS IS EXPLOSIVE. To prevent
injury or damage, before using your
washer, turn on all hot water faucets and
allow water to run for several minutes. This
will allow gases to escape. Do not smoke
or use any open flame near your faucet
while it is open.
Please ...
l Have only a qualified person install, repair,
or replace parts on washer.
l Maintain washer properly.
* Protect washer from the weather and keep
it where the temperature will not fall below
freezing.
l Install and level washer on a floor that can
support the weight.*
l Connect washer to the correct 3-prong
outlet, electrical supply, water supply, and
drain.’
l Ground washer properly.’
‘See the Installation Instructions.
Understanding your responsibilities
l Store detergent, laundry aids and other
materials in a cool, dry place where
children cannot reach them (in a locked
cabinet if possible).
l Read and follow instructions on pack-
ages of detergent and laundry aids,
especially warnings and precautions.
l Do not wash or dry items that are soiled
with vegetable or cooking oil. These
items may contain some oil after launder-
ing. Due to the remaining oil, the fabric
may smoke or catch fire by itself.
l Do not use chlorine bleach and ammonia
or acids (such as vinegar or rust re-
mover) in the same wash. Hazardous
fumes can form.
. Unplug power supply cord before
attempting to service your washer.
l Do not machine wash fiberglass materi-
als. Small particles can stick to the
fabrics washed in following loads and
cause skin irritation.
- SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS -

Knowing Your Washer3
Features
The parts and features of your washer are illustrated in this section. Become familiar with all parts
and features before using your washer.
NOTE: The drawings in this book may vary from your washer model. They are designed to show
the different features of all models covered by this book. Your model may not include all features.
Agitator
Load size Temperature
selector selector Cycle control knob
mar Assistance
Center number
Other features not shown:
MAGIC CLEAN” lint filter*
Manual clean lint filter (inside agitator)
:.
&ic
I
(und& lid)
- Bleach dispenser*
Basket
Tub
*Available on some models
4

Operating Your Washer
In This Section
Par33
Before starting your wamher -5
............................................................
Selecting a cycle and time 6
Starting or stopping your washer .................... .5 Using rinse and spin ........................................ 6
Selecting a load oizo .......................................... 5 Using drain and spin ....
.................................. .6
Selectfng wash-rinse temperatures ................. .6 What happens in each cycle .......................... .6
Operating your washer properly ensures maximum washing efficiency. This section gives you
important information to help you to select a cycle, time, and temperature for your wash load.
Before starting your washer
Add measured detergent. Then place a sorted NOTE: If your washer has a Consumer
load in the washer before starting. See page 12 Feature Guide, remove it and place it in your
for additional “Before you wash” information. Use and Care Guide.
Starting or stopping your washer
Starting your washer:
1. Select a load size and water temperature.
2. Push in the Cycle Control Knob and turn it
clockwise. Stop when the indicator on the
knob’s outer ring points to the number (or
mark) in the wash cycle you want. The
numbers are minutes of wash time. Make
other selections, if necessary.
3. Pull out the Cycle Control Knob.
Refer to pages 6-9 for additional information to
help you make selections.
Stopplng and rastartlng your washer:
l To stop the washer at any time, push in the
Cycle Control Knob.
Cycles may vary with model
l To restart the washer, close the lid (if neces-
sary) and pull out the Cycle Control Knob.
Selecting a load size
Position the Load Size Selector at the setting
that corresponds to the size load you want to
wash. Select a load size based upon the size
of the load and the fabric you are washing. See
page 12 for additional loading information.

Load size tips
l Items should move freely in the washer. Do
not overload the machine or select a load size
that is too small for the wash load.
l Use a large load size setting for best results
with permanent press clothes.
l Reduce wash time when using a small load
size setting. Loads with only a few small items
need less wash time.
Selecting wash-rinse temperatures
Match the water temperature to the type of
fabric and soils being washed. The top tempera-
ture is the wash water and the bottom tempera-
ture is the rinse water.
NOTE: The Regular cycle features all cold
rinses.
Water temperature tips
l Use warm wash water with the Permanent
Press and Short cycles.
l Always use cold rinse water for permanent
press fabrics.
l For heavily soiled permanent press or knit
clothes, prewash or presoak before washing in
warm water.
Seltings may vary with mode4
See the “Water usage guide’ on page 16 for
more information.
Selecting a cycle and time
You will find information you need to help you
make correct cycle selections in this section
l Pages 7-9: Use the information on these
pages to guide you when selecting a wash
cycle and time.
l Page 9: Use this page to help you understand
what happens during a wash cycle.
NOTE: Cycles and settings vary with model.
All wash times may not be on your model.
Cycles may vary with mode4
6

Heavy cycle
The Heavy cycle features longer spins to
shorten drying time.
l Use lo-12 minutes of wash time to clean
large loads of sturdily constructed fabrics that
are heavily soiled.
l Use 6-8 minutes of wash time to clean
sturdily constructed fabrics that are moder-
ately soiled.
Regular cycle
The Regular cycle features longer spins to
shorten drying time. All rinses are cold.
l Use 8-10 minutes of wash time to clean
cotton and linen fabrics that are moderately
to heavily soiled loads.
l Use 6 minutes of wash time to clean cotton
and linen fabrics that are lightly soiled.
NOTE: The Regular cycle features all cold
rinses.
Short cycle
(on 8ome model*)
The Short cycle features a brief wash cycle
and shorter spins.
. Use 6 minutes of wash time to clean delicate
items and washable knits that are lightly to
moderately soiled.
Permanent Press cycle
The Permanent Press cycle features a cool-down
rinse and shorter spins to reduce wrinkling.
l Use 6-8 minutes of wash time to clean perma-
nent press and some synthetic fabrics that are
moderately soiled.
l Use 4 minutes of wash time to clean permanent
press and some synthetics that are lightly
soiled.
NOTE: The washer pauses briefly during the wash
cycle. This is normal for washer operation.
Regular cycle
Short cycle
Permanent prees cycle

Soak cycle
(on some models)
The Soak cycle features brief periods of agitation
and soak time to help remove heavy soils and
stains that need pretreatment.
l Use warm water when soaking laundry. (Hot
water can set stains.) See pages 13-l 5 for stain
removal information.
l Use the amount of detergent or presoak additive
recommended by manufacturer.
l After the Soak cycle ends, add detergent and set
a new wash cycle.
Pre-Wash cycle
(on aome models)
The Pre-Wash cycle features a brief period of
high speed agitation to help remove heavy
soils and stains that need pretreatment.
l Use warm water for prewashing stained
laundry. (Hot water can set stains.) See
pages 13-l 5 for stain removal information.
l After the Pre-Wash cycle ends, add deter-
gent and set a new wash cycle.
Using rinse and spin
When using extra detergent for heavily soiled
clothes, or washing special-care items, you
may want an extra rinse and spin.
1. Push Cycle Control Knob in and turn
clockwise to RINSE, as illustrated.
2. Pull Cycle Control Knob out. The washer
will fill to selected load size, agitate, drain,
and spin.
Using drain and spin
A drain and spin may help shorten drying times
for some heavy fabrics or special-care items
by removing excess water.
1. Push Cycle Control Knob in and turn
clockwise to SPIN, as illustrated.
2. Pull Cycle Control Knob out. The washer
will drain and spin.
Soak cycle
8

What happens in each cycle
When the Cycle Control Knob is set to a
number and pulled out, the washer fills (to the
selected load size) before agitation and timing
start. The washer will begin agitating immedi-
ately after filling; agitation can occur with the
washer lid up or down.
After agitation starts, the Cycle Control Knob
turns clockwise until it points to OFF and the
cycle ends.
The washer pauses brletly throughout
each cycle. These pauses are normal for
washer operation.
WASH RINSE
Fill Fill
Wash selected time Rinse
Drain (or partial drain*)
No agitation
‘The PermanentPress cycle partially
drains, fills, agitates briefly, and drains.
Spin
Drain-No agitation
IBIJ
Spin-Spray rinse
Soin
9

Other Features
In This Section Pagb Paw
Using the chlorine bleach dispenser .............. 10 Lint filters ....................................................... 11 I
Your washer may have some of the following features. Understanding the use of the features on
your machine will help you efficiently use your washer.
Using the chlorine bleach dispenser
(on 80me modde)
Always measure liquid chlorine bleach. Do not
guess. Never use more than 1 cup (250 mL) for
a full load. Use less with lower water level
settings. Follow manufacturer’s directions for
safe use. Use a cup with a pouring spout to
avoid spilling.
1. Load the washer.
2. Pour measured chlorine bleach carefully into
dispenser. Do not let bleach splash, drip or
run down into washer basket. Undiluted
bleach will damage any fabric it touches.
3. Start the washer. Bleach will be diluted
automatically during wash part of cycle.
NOTE: Do not add powered chlorine or all-
fabric bleach to the dispenser. The dispenser
can clog.
10

Lint filters
Your washer has a self-cleaning lint filter (requires no cleaning by you) or a manual clean lint filter.
Check the shape of your agitator to see if you need to clean your lint filter.
AGlTATOR ABOUT YOUR FILTER
MAGIC CLEAN@ lint filter
This lint filter requires no cleaning. (The lint
filter at the bottom of the washer basket cleans
itself.) During agitation, wash and rinse water
pass over the filter, separating the lint from the
water. The lint is then spun away from the filter
and out of the system during the spin part of
FILTER
Spiral-shaped agitator
the cycle.
If your washer drains into a tub, remove any
CLEAN interior
lint collected in the tub or strainer.
lint filter
Manual clean lint filter
NOTE: If your agitator is barrel shaped with 5 fins at
the base, your filter requires no cleaning.
If your agitator is barrel shaped with 4 fins at the
base, your machine has a manual clean lint filter.
Clean the filter at the bottom of the agitator after
every load for best filtering results.
To clean:
fin hrr&,bam 1. Lift off the agitator barrel.
agitator
2. Wash or wipe the filter clean in the bottom of the
Manual clean
agitator barrel. The filter is not removable.
lint filter
3. Replace agitator barrel. Snap it into place.
11

Laundry Tips
I
In This Section
Before you wash ............................................... 12
Removing stains ............................................... 13
Water usage guide ............................................ 16
Using laundry aids ........................................... 17
Washing special-care ibarns ............................ 16
Sotving Isundaring problema ...................... .20
Caring for your waaher .................................. 21
Cars during parioda of non-use .................. .2f
Saving energy ............................................... .21
This section reviews proper laundering techniques, gives you additional washing information, and
discusses solutions to common laundering problems.
Before you wash
Preparing clothes for washing
l Close zippers, snaps, and hooks to avoid
q
snagging other items. Remove
pins, buckles, and other hard
objects to avoid scratching
0
the washer interior. Remove
unwashable trim and
ornaments.
l Empty pockets and turn them inside out.
l Turn down cuffs and brush away lint and dirt.
l Turn synthetic knits inside out to avoid pilling.
l Tie strings and sashes so they will not tangle.
l Mend tears, loose hems and seams.
l Treat spots and stains. (See page 13 for
pretreatment and stain removal information.)
l Stained or wet garments should be washed
promptly for best results.
Sorting
l Separate heavily soiled items from lightly
soiled ones even if they would
normally be washed together.
Separate lint givers (towels,
chenille) from lint takers (cordu-
roy, synthetics, permanent
press). When possible, turn lint givers
inside out.
l Separate dark from light colors, colorfast from
noncolorfast.
l Sort by fabric and construction (sturdy
cottons, knits, delicate items).
Loading
l Drop items into washer loosely. Fill to the top
Ia
of the basket, but do not pack or
wrap items around the agitator.
Items should move easily
through wash water for best
cleaning and wrinkle-free
results. Watch for rollover. Items should sink
and reappear later.
l Load washer properly. Overloading or
packing can:
-cause poor cleaning.
-increase wrinkling.
-create excessive lint.
-wear out items faster (because of pilling).
l Load by the amount of space items take up,
not by their weight.
l Mix large and small items in each load. Load
l!iEa
evenly to maintain washer
balance. An off-balance load
j can make the machine vibrate
--’
-- during spin. To reduce wrinkling,
permanent press and synthetic
knits should have more room to move in the
water than heavy items (towels, jeans).
12

Loading suggestions
For these suggested full-sized loads, use the largest load size setting.
ARGE CAPACITY WASl
Heavy Work Clothes
2 pair pants
3 shirts
3 pair jeans
1 coverall
Knits
2 slacks
2 blouses
4 shirts
4tops
2 dresses
EXTRA LARGE CAPACll
/
Heavy Work Clothes
3 pair pants
3 shirts
4 pair jeans
1 coverall
1 overall
Knits
3 slacks
3 blouses
6 shirts
4 tops
4 dresses
RS
Permanent Press
1 double sheet
1 tablecloth
1 dress
1 blouse
2 slacks
3 shirts
2 pillowcases
WASHERS
Permanent Press
2 double or 1 king
size sheet
1tablecloth
1 dress
1 blouse
2 slacks
3 shirts
2 pillowcases
Mixed Load
2 double or 1 king
size sheet
4 pillowcases
6 T-shirts
6 pair shorts
2
shirts
2 blouses
6 handkerchiefs
Mixed Load
3 double sheets
4 pillowcases
6 T-shirts
6 pair shorts
2
shirts
2 blouses
6 handkerchiefs
Towels
6 bath towels
6 hand towels
10 wash cloths
1 bathmat
Delicate8
2 camisoles
4 slips
4 panties
2 bras
2 nighties
Towels
10 bath towels
10 hand towels
14 wash cloths
1 bathmat
Delicate8
3 camisoles
1 quilted robe
4 slips
4 panties
2 bras
2 nighties
1 baby’s dress
Removing stains
Stained, heavily soiled or greasy items may
need to be prewashed or soaked for best
results. Soaking helps remove protein-type
stains like blood, milk, or grass. Prewashing
helps loosen soil before washing.
Pre-washing or soaking
Use warm water for soaking or prewashing
stained laundry. Hot water can set stains.
Stain removal rules
l Most stains are easier to remove when they
are fresh. Old or set stains may not come out.
Follow package directions for pretreatment
products.
. Before treating any stain, find out ...
1. What kind of stain it is.
2. What kind of fabric it is and if it is
colorfast. (Check label.)
3. How old the stain is. (Washing and drying
can set some stains.)
l Start with cold or warm water. Hot water can
set some stains.
l When bleach is recommended, use a bleach
that is safe for the fabric. Dilute chlorine
bleach.
l Test stain removers on an inside seam or
hidden corner of the item to see if the color is
removed.
l Put the stained area face down on a paper
towel or white cloth. Apply the stain remover
to the back of the stain. This can force the
stain off the fabric instead of through it.
l Meat tenderizer or enzyme presoaks help
break down some protein stains so they are
easier to remove.
l Use nonflammable dry cleaning solvents in a
well-ventilated room.
13

Stain removal guide
STAIN TO REMOVE
Alcoholic
These stains turn brown with age, so treat immediately. Sponge or soak fresh
beverage
stains with cold water. Wash. If stain remains, soak 15 minutes in a solution of
lukewarm water, liquid detergent and a few drops of white vinegar. Rinse. Wash.
Blood Rinse immediately or soak in cold water with enzyme presoak for 30 minutes or
longer. Rinse. Rub detergent into any remaining stains. Rinse. If stain remains,
put a few drops of 3% hydrogen peroxide on stain for 3-5 minutes. Rinse
thoroughly. Wash.
Chewing
Use ice to make gum hard. Scrape off what you can. Sponge with a nonflam-
gum mable dry cleaning solvent. Let dry. Wash.
Chocolate or
coffee Sponge immediately with a nonflammable dry cleaning solvent or appfy a
prewash soil and stain remover. Rinse. Wash. If stain remains, apply a liquid
detergent to stain or soak in warm water with an enzyme presoak. Rewash.
Crayon and
Scrape off excess with a dull knife. Place fabric between two blotters or facial
candle wax
tissue. Press with warm iron. Remove color stain with nonflammable dry clean-
ing solvent. Hand wash until stain is gone. If full load is crayon stained, take to
cleaners or coin-operated dry cleaning machine.
Cream, milk
Sponge with a nonflammable dry cleaning solvent, or a prewash soil and stain
or ice cream remover. Rinse. Wash. Repeat if necessary. If stain remains, apply a few drops
of liquid detergent and a few drops of ammonia. Blot dry and rinse. If stain
remains, soak in an enzyme presoak. Wash.
Deodorants Llght staln: Treat with liquid detergent or your regular laundry detergent. Wash
and anti-
in hottest water safe for fabric.
perspirants Heavy staln:
Place face down on towel and treat with a paste of ammonia and
all-fabric bleach. Let stand for 30 minutes. Wash in hottest water safe for fabric.
Fat, grease
or oil
Items soiled with vegetable or cooking oil should not be washed or dried. See
vegetable/cooking oil Warning on page 3. For other types of greasy stains, use
one of the methods below:
l Use pretreatment stain remover. Follow label directions. Wash in hottest water
safe for fabric.
Fruit stains
l Use talcum powder to absorb as much grease as possible. Sponge with a
nonflammable dry cleaning solvent. Rinse. Wash.
l Treat with liquid detergent or rub a detergent paste on the stain. Wash using
hottest water safe for fabric.
Fresh stalns: Soak immediately in cool water. Wash. If stain remains, cover
area with a paste made of all-fabric bleach, a few drops of hot water and a few
drops of ammonia. Wait 15 to 30 minutes. Wash.
Old stains: Sponge with white vinegar. Rinse. Repeat procedure for fresh
stains.
Grass or
w-n
vegetables
Ink or
ballpoint
pen ink
Soak in warm or cold water with an enzyme presoak for at least 30 minutes, or
sponge with denatured alcohol. Wash in water temperature and bleach safe for
the fabric. For colored fabrics, check colorfastness before applying alcohol. For
acetate, sponge with a nonflammable dry cleaning solvent. If stain remains,
bleach with 3% hydrogen peroxide. Rinse. Rewash.
Spray stain with an aerosol hair spray or rubbing alcohol. Sponge stain continu-
ously until all bleeding stops. Let dry. Repeat if necessary. Wash. If stain
remains, bleach if safe for fabric. (India and other indelible inks are almost
impossible to remove completely.)
14

STAIN TO REMOVE
Iron or rust
Colored or noncolorfast ltems: Apply lemon juice and salt. Place in the sun
to dry. Rinse thoroughly. Repeat if necessary.
White or colorlast items: Try a rust remover. Test first on inside seam or
hem. Some rust removers are not washer safe. Follow package directions.
Ketchup or
Sponge immediately with a nonflammable dry cleaning solvent or apply a
tomato
products
prewash soil and stain remover. Rinse. Wash. If stain remains, apply a liquid
detergent to stain or soak in warm water with an enzyme presoak. Rewash.
Lipstick Apply nonflammable dry cleaning solvent or prewash soil and stain remover.
Blot with absorbent material. Repeat if necessary. Rinse. If stain still remains,
rub with liquid detergent. Wash.
Meat juice, Scrape off excess with a dull knife. Soak in cold or warm water with enzyme
egg presoak at least 30 minutes, or treat stains with a nonflammable dry cleaning
solvent. Wash.
Mildew Wash in hottest water safe for fabric. If stain remains, soak in warm water and
an all-fabric bleach for 15 to 30 minutes. Rewash. (Old mildew stains are
almost impossible to remove. Mildew fungus destroys or weakens fabrics.)
An alternative to bleach is to treat with salt and lemon juice and dry in direct
sunlight. Rinse and rewash. Mildew may form if wet or damp laundry remains in
your washer for extended periods of time. To prevent mildew, promptly dry
laundry after washing.
Mustard
Treat immediately. Scrape off excess mustard. Sponge with a nonflammable
dry cleaning solvent or a prewash soil and stain remover. Rinse. Work liquid
detergent and a few drops of vinegar into stain. Rinse. If stain remains, apply
3% hydrogen peroxide. Rinse and wash.
Paint
Hand wash paint-stained items.
Water base: Treat stains while still wet. (These paints cannot be removed after
they have dried.) Rinse in warm water to flush out paint. Sponge with a
nonflammable dry cleaning solvent. Rinse. Wash.
011base: Scrape off fresh paint. Sponge with a nonflammable dry cleaning
solvent or treat stain with recommended thinner. While stain is still wet with
solvent, rub liquid detergent into it. Wash with hottest water safe for fabric.
Perspiration
Remove stains before ironing. Perspiration stains may weaken fabric. Wash or
sponge stain thoroughly with detergent and warm water. If perspiration has
changed the color of the fabric, use one of the following treatments:
Fresh stalns: Apply ammonia to stain. Rinse. Launder to remove ammonia
odor.
Old stalns: Apply white vinegar to stain. Rinse. Launder to remove vinegar
odor.
Scorch
Severe scorch cannot be removed. Wet stain with 3% hydrogen peroxide.
Cover with a dry cloth and press with an iron as hot as is safe for fabric. Rinse
well. Wash.
OR
Wet with lemon juice and spread in the sun to dry. Wash.
Soft drinks
Sponge immediately with cold water and alcohol. Heat and detergent may set
stain.
15

Water usage guide
Water temperature
WASH
HOT
130°F (54°C)
or above
WARM
9o”-110°F
(32”-44°C)
RINSE USE FOR COMMENTS
COLD l Heavy soils l Gives best cleaning for heavy
l Work clothes soils.
l Sturdy whites and l Removes oils, perspiration, greasy
colorfast pastels soils and stains.
l Diapers l Prevents graying and yellowing.
COLD
l Light and moderate soils l Safe for most fabric finishes.
l Dark or noncolorfast l Less fading and dye bleeding.
colors l Reduces wrinkling.
l Moderately soiled perma-
nent press
l Nylons, polyesters,
acrylics, silks, woolens
l Knits and delicate fabrics
l Prewash, soak
COLD
7o”-9ooF
(21°-32%)
COLD
l Very lightly soiled items l Saves hot water.
l Moderately soiled items if l Less effective cleaning than hot or
extra detergent is added warm water.
l Extra sensitive colors l Use longest wash time in cycle
(noncolorfast) selected.
l Rinsing, for all fabrics l Use liquid detergent, or dissolve
powdered detergent in warm water
before adding to cold wash water.
l Pretreat spots, stains and heavy or
greasy soils.
To check your hot water temperature with a
Water hardness
candy or cooklng thermometer:
1, Fill a pan with the hottest water available
from the faucet that will fill your washer.
Many poor washing ranlrlts can ha tracad to
.---..- --.. -- ..---- --
wash-water h?rdn=
hardness: yI-I ,-;s. To check your water
2. Place a candy or cooking thermometer in
water to check the temperature.
If you do not have a faucet at your wash site,
collect water from the faucet closest to your
washer.
l City water-ask your city water company.
l Well water-call your Cooperative Extension
Service.
Ask for the mineral content in grains-per-gallon
or parts-per-million. If your water is 9 or more
grains-per-gallon or more than 153 parts-per-
million:
NOTE: In wash-water temperatures colder
than 70°F (21OC):
l Detergents do not dissolve well. l Consider installing a water softener.
l Soils are difficult to remove. l Use more detergent.
l Some fabrics will retain wear wrinkles and l Use a packaged water conditioner.
may have increased pilling. l Do not use soap.
16

Using laundry aids
Follow package instructions when using laundry
aids. (See “Removing Stains” on page 13, for
more information.)
Chlorine bleach
l Use bleach dispenser if your machine has
one. (See page 10.)
l If your washer does not have a bleach
dispenser:
1. Let the washer fill and begin agitating the
load.
2. Measure bleach. Never use more than
1 cup (250 mL) for a full load. Dilute
measured bleach in 1 quart (1L) of water.
3. Add bleach to wash cycle so it can be
removed in the rinse cycle. Pour bleach
around agitator, not directly on load.
l Follow directions on care labels. Do not use
chlorine bleach on wool, silk, spandex,
acetates or some flame-retardant fabrics.
l When soaking with chlorine bleach, add
detergent to soak water.
NOTE: Undiluted bleach will damage any fabric
it touches. The damage appears as rips, holes,
tears or color loss and may not show up until
several washings later.
All-fabric bleach
l Powdered or liquid all-fabric bleach may be
used on all types of fabrics.
l Do not use all-fabric bleach in the bleach
dispenser because it may clog.
Detergent
l Using too little detergent is a common cause
of laundry problems. Follow manufacturer’s
directions. Measure accurately, especially
when using ultra detergents. Package
directions are usually based on:
-moderate water hardness (4-6 grains)
-lightly soiled items
-normal mix loads.
l Use more detergent for:
-hard water
-cooler wash water
-full loads
-heavily soiled items.
l Do not judge the amount of detergent to use
by the amount of suds in the machine. Low
sudsing detergents do not create as many
suds as normal sudsing detergents.
l If the recommended amount of normal
sudsing detergent creates too many suds or
suds are present in the rinse water, try a low
sudsing detergent.
Fabric softeners
l Use fabric softener dispenser if your machine
has one.
l If your washer does not have a fabric
softener dispenser, add diluted fabric
softener only in the final rinse.
l Always dilute fabric softeners with l/z to 1 cup
(125 to 250 mL) warm water. Undiluted fabric
softener can stain fabrics.
l Fabric softeners should not be mixed with
other laundry products because greasy
stains may form. If stains form, remove by
wetting the stain and rubbing with liquid
detergent or a bar of soap. Rewash the
stained item.
l Too much fabric softener can make some
items (diapers and towels) nonabsorbent. If
this happens, use less fabric softener or do
not use it every time.
Fire or Explosion Hazard
l Store flammable solvents or liquids away
from your washer.
l Dry cleaning solvents or fluids should not
be put directly into your washer.
l Items treated with solvents should be
rinsed and air dried before washing in
your washer.
The fumes from these substances can
create a fire hazard or explosion.
Personal Injury Hazard
l Never use chlorine bleach with ammonia
or acids. Hazardous fumes can form.
l Keep stain removal products out of the
reach of children ._. preferably in a locked
cabinet.
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Blankets, electric
Pretreat spots and stains. Select water temperature, cycle, and time
and woolen according to the type of blanket being washed. Two rinses may be
necessary. If manufacturer recommends machine washing:
1. Measure blanket before washing.
2. Add mild detergent to washer. Fill and agitate briefly to dissolve
detergent.
Curtains, drapes, Wash small loads. Crowding will cause wrinkling.
slipcovers
1. Shake or vacuum to remove loose dirt.
2. Wash following manufacturer’s instructions.
NOTE:
Diapers
Elastic, spandex
Flameretardant
Items will be clearly labeled as flame-retardant. Follow manufacturer’s
clothing
instructions to retain flame retardant qualities.
Washing special-care items
Most garments and household textiles have care labels with laundering instructions. Always follow
label directions when they are available. General washing instructions for some special washables
are included in this section.
3. Stop washer. Load blanket evenly around agitator. Soak 10 to
15 minutes.
4. Set Cycle Control Knob to Drain and Spin. Start washer. Spin 1 to
2 minutes.
5. Fill washer for final rinse. Stop washer. Allow to soak.
6. Set Cycle Control Knob to Drain and Spin. Start washer. Allow washer
to finish cycle.
7. Lay blanket on flat surface and block by gently stretching to original
measurement. Woolens tend to shrink more the first time they are
washed. This is normal.
l Sun-damaged curtains and draper* will tear whether hand or machine
washed.
l Replace slipcovers while still slightly damp. They will dry to fit tightly.
When using chlorine bleach for soaking, add detergent to load. Avoid
overuse of fabric softeners. Absorbency will be reduced.
1. Rinse immediately. Soak in a solution of lukewarm water and a small
amount of detergent until you are ready to wash them. You may wish to
use bleach or a special soaking product when soaking.
2. Spin excess water from diapers before washing.
3. Wash diapers as you would wash white cottons and linens.
Elastic picks up oil from the body. Oil can damage elastic. Wash often to
help reduce the damage. Use warm water and sufficient detergent to
remove oils.
16

Fiberglass
materials
Knits
Do not wash fiberglass materials in your washer. Glass particles
could stick to the next load and cause skin irritation.
Knits are comfortable to wear because they stretch. However,
this means that knits are more likely to be stretched and
damaged when washed (especially bulky knits). Knits made of
synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic tend to
keep their original shape more than a knit made of cotton or
ramie.
1. Close zippers, fasten hooks and eyes to prevent snagging.
2. Wash small loads to reduce pilling and lint.
Pillows, stuffed
toys
Washing feather pillows is not recommended unless they are
dryer dried.
1. Add detergent, then partially fill washer with water; agitate
until detergent is dissolved.
2. Place two pillows on opposite sides of the agitator to balance
the load.
3. Allow washer to fill completely and continue through the
cycle.
4. Stop the washer occasionally to press air from item(s) being
washed.
Plastic, rubber
items
Quilts, bedspreads
Treat as delicate items. Wash in warm water. Wash small items
in a mesh bag.
Do not wash cotton-filled comforters unless they are quilted or
stitched; tucked cotton batting tends to slip and become lumpy.
Scatter rugs 1.
Shake or vacuum to remove loose dirt.
2. Wash more than one small rug at a time. If you wash only
one rug, add bath towels to balance the load. A larger rug
should be distributed around the agitator to balance the load.
Snowsuits, jackets,
etc. 1.
Wash only one or two items at a time. Load evenly around
the agitator.
2. Stop the washer occasionally to press air from item(s) being
washed.
3. Two rinses may be necessary.
19

Solving laundering problems
Most laundering problems are easily solved if you understand the cause. Check the following
list for problems you may have and possible causes. If you need additional help, check the
“Assistance or Service” section of this book.
PROBLEM
Brown, yellow
stains
Dye transfer
CAUSE
l Chlorine staining
l Iron in water heater or pipes
l Iron and manganese in water
l Improper sorting
l Load not immediately removed from washer after end of cycle
Gray whites,
dingy colors
Greasy looking
spots
l Improper sorting
l Water temperature too low
l Not enough detergent
l Using soap in very hard water (use detergent if you have hard water)
l Undiluted fabric softener or fabric softener poured directly on load
l Fabric softener in wash water
l Not enough detergent
Lint
l Improper sorting
l Paper or tissue in pockets
l Pilling being mistaken for lint
l Overloading
l Not enough detergent
l Cloaaed lint filter (models with a manual clean lint filter)
Load too wet
l Cold rinses
l Lid is opened before spinning is completed
l Fabric type (some knits stretch during manufacturing-laundering returns
fabric to original size)
l Care label directions not followed
Snags, rips, holes
Stiff, rough fabrics
(usually cottons)
l Items damaged before washing
l Misuse of chlorine bleach
l Sharp articles not removed from pockets
l Overloading
l Fasteners not fastened
l Using soap in very hard water (use detergent if you have hard water)
l Not enough detergent
l Line drvina
Twisting, tangling
l Overloading
l Improper loading (do not wrap large items around agitator)
Wrinkling
l Overloading
l Load not immediately removed from washer after end of cycle
l Improper rinse temperature
l Cycle selection is incorrect (based on fabric type)
Yellow areas
(from body oils)
l Water temperature too low
l Not enough detergent
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