What Is the Sanitary Cycle on LG Washers? Your Deep Dive Guide

Let’s get straight to the point: The Sanitary cycle on LG washers is a high-temperature wash cycle designed to eliminate a significant percentage of bacteria and allergens from your laundry. It uses exceptionally hot water, often reaching temperatures around 158°F (70°C), to provide a thorough cleaning and sanitization, going above and beyond what a typical wash cycle can achieve. It’s your go-to for items needing a truly deep clean.

Understanding the Power of Sanitation

The Sanitary cycle is more than just a regular hot wash. It’s engineered to meet specific standards for allergen and bacteria reduction. This makes it incredibly beneficial for families with young children, individuals with allergies or sensitivities, or anyone who prioritizes a higher level of cleanliness. Think of it as your washer’s built-in mini-sterilizer.

Why Use the Sanitary Cycle?

The Sanitary cycle is best suited for items that:

• Come into contact with bodily fluids (towels, bedding, workout clothes).
• Are used in environments prone to bacteria (kitchen towels, cleaning cloths).
• Require allergen removal (bedding for allergy sufferers, baby clothes).
• Need a level of cleanliness beyond a standard wash.

What Not to Wash with the Sanitary Cycle

While incredibly effective, the high heat of the Sanitary cycle isn’t suitable for all fabrics. Avoid washing:

• Delicate fabrics: Silk, lace, and some fine synthetics can be damaged by the high temperatures.
• Brightly colored items: High heat can cause colors to fade.
• Items with embellishments: Beads, sequins, or other delicate details may be damaged.
• Items not recommended for hot water washing: Always check the care label.

Maximizing Your Sanitary Cycle

To get the most out of your LG washer’s Sanitary cycle, consider these tips:

• Use a high-quality detergent: Choose a detergent specifically designed for hot water washing and effective at removing stains and bacteria.
• Don’t overload the washer: Overcrowding can prevent proper water circulation and reduce the effectiveness of the cycle.
• Pre-treat stains: For heavily soiled items, pre-treating stains can improve the overall cleaning result.
• Consult the user manual: Your LG washer’s manual provides specific details about the Sanitary cycle, including load capacity and recommended settings.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

1. How hot does the water get during the Sanitary cycle?

Typically, the water temperature reaches around 158°F (70°C). However, this can vary slightly depending on the specific LG washer model. Always consult your user manual for the exact temperature specification.

2. Is the Sanitary cycle safe for all types of clothing?

No. As mentioned earlier, it’s not recommended for delicate fabrics, brightly colored items, or anything with embellishments. Always check the care label of your garments before using the Sanitary cycle.

3. Can I use bleach with the Sanitary cycle?

Yes, you can use bleach with the Sanitary cycle, but it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for both the washer and the bleach product. Use the designated bleach dispenser in your washer to avoid damaging your clothes.

4. How long does the Sanitary cycle take?

The duration of the Sanitary cycle can vary, typically ranging from 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the model and selected options. Check your user manual for precise timing.

5. Will the Sanitary cycle shrink my clothes?

There’s a risk of shrinkage with the Sanitary cycle, especially for natural fibers like cotton. To minimize shrinkage, avoid over-drying your clothes after washing and consider using a lower heat setting on your dryer.

6. Does the Sanitary cycle use more water and energy?

Yes, the Sanitary cycle generally uses more water and energy than a standard wash cycle due to the higher water temperature and longer wash time.

7. How often should I use the Sanitary cycle?

The frequency of using the Sanitary cycle depends on your needs. If you have allergy sufferers in your household or regularly deal with heavily soiled items, you might use it more frequently. For general laundry, a standard wash cycle may suffice.

8. Can I use the Sanitary cycle to wash baby clothes?

Yes, the Sanitary cycle is excellent for washing baby clothes, as it helps to remove allergens and bacteria. However, always check the care labels of the baby clothes to ensure they can withstand the high heat.

9. My washer has a “Allergiene” cycle. Is that the same as Sanitary?

The “Allergiene” cycle is similar to the Sanitary cycle but focuses specifically on allergen removal. While both use hot water, the Allergiene cycle may incorporate steam to further reduce allergens. Refer to your user manual for the specific differences between these cycles on your model.

10. Can I adjust the temperature of the Sanitary cycle?

Generally, the Sanitary cycle is pre-set to a specific high temperature, and you cannot adjust it. This is to ensure the effectiveness of the sanitization process.

11. What type of detergent works best with the Sanitary cycle?

Use a high-quality detergent specifically formulated for hot water washing. Look for detergents that contain enzymes for stain removal and are effective against bacteria.

12. My Sanitary cycle smells bad after using it. What should I do?

A bad smell after using the Sanitary cycle can indicate mildew or bacteria buildup. Run a washer cleaner cycle with a washing machine cleaner or bleach to eliminate the odor. Also, leave the washer door slightly ajar after each use to allow the interior to dry completely.

In conclusion, the Sanitary cycle on your LG washer is a powerful tool for achieving a truly deep clean and removing bacteria and allergens. By understanding its capabilities and limitations, you can effectively utilize this feature to keep your laundry fresh and your family healthy. Always consult your washer’s user manual for model-specific information and safety precautions.