Washing settings guide
Washing Machine Symbols Explained
Use this guide to understand common programme symbols and choose the right wash setting.
Most symbols point to fabric type or cycle stage: cottons, synthetics, delicates, wool, rinse, spin, drain, eco, and quick wash.
Last updated: 29 April 2026
Quick answer
Best washing machine setting
Program
Choose by fabric symbol
Temperature
Follow care label
Spin
Match fabric strength
Why: Symbols are shortcuts for programme type, temperature, spin, rinse, or drain options.
Safe tip: If unsure, use a lower temperature and gentler spin until you confirm the symbol in your manual.
Step-by-step setup
- 1.Match the main symbol to the fabric type: cotton, synthetic, delicate, wool, or mixed.
- 2.Check whether the temperature is fixed or adjustable.
- 3.Set spin lower for delicate or crease-prone items.
- 4.Use rinse or extra rinse if detergent residue is a recurring issue.
- 5.Use drain or spin-only only when it is safe and the machine is not showing a fault.
Related problems and error codes
Bosch Washing Machine E18
The washer cannot drain within the expected time
Samsung Washing Machine 5C
The washer cannot drain the water away
Hotpoint Washing Machine F05
The washer has not drained the water out before the spin stage.
Beko Washing Machine E18
The washer is not draining fast enough through the pump and hose system.
When to use this setting
- When your machine shows icons instead of clear programme names.
- When comparing cottons, synthetics, delicates, wool, rinse, spin, and drain options.
- When choosing optional extras such as eco, quick wash, extra rinse, or reduced spin.
When not to use it
- Do not guess on wool, silk, or hand-wash items.
- Do not use drain or spin-only when the machine still has an active fault.
- Do not rely on symbols alone if the garment care label says otherwise.
Common mistakes
- Using quick wash for a large dirty load because the symbol looks convenient.
- Using spin-only to force a wet load when a drainage issue may match Bosch E18 or Samsung 5C.
- Ignoring reduced-spin symbols on delicate items.
Related guides
Mixed Load vs Cottons on a Washing Machine
Use mixed for everyday clothing with varied fabrics. Use cottons for towels, bedding, robust cotton garments, and heavier loads that need a longer wash.
SpeedPerfect vs EcoPerfect on Bosch Washing Machines
SpeedPerfect is generally for reducing wash time, while EcoPerfect is generally for saving energy. The right choice depends on the load, soil level, and whether speed or efficiency matters more.
What Setting to Use for Washing Clothes
For most mixed everyday clothes, use a mixed or synthetic programme at 30°C or 40°C with a moderate spin, then adjust for towels, bedding, delicates, and heavily soiled items.
Frequently asked questions
What does the cotton symbol mean?+
It usually means a cotton programme for robust cotton fabrics, towels, bedding, and similar loads.
What does the spiral symbol mean?+
A spiral commonly refers to spin. It may start a spin-only cycle or adjust spin speed depending on the machine.
What does the tub with water mean?+
It usually refers to rinse, rinse hold, or a water-related stage. Check the model manual if the exact symbol is unclear.