How to Prewash Clothes in the Samsung Washing Machine

Last Updated on: 19th July 2023, 04:00 pm

Prewashing clothes means soaking or preparing the clothes for the main wash. The main wash usually happens in the washer. However, prewashing could be done in a separate tub or a prewash tub on top of the washing machine.

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My Samsung washing machine has a built-in shelf along with a waterjet facility for prewashing. To find this area, just open the top lid of the top-loading washer and you’ll see the prewash shelf.

Prewashing clothes in a Samsung washing machine can help remove stains and dirt before the main wash cycle. It is a beneficial step to ensure cleaner and fresher garments.

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Prewash Clothes in the Samsung Washing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prewash clothes using a Samsung washing machine.

Step 1: Sorting and Pretreating

Before starting the prewash cycle, it is essential to sort your laundry by fabric type, color, and level of dirtiness. This step helps prevent color bleeding and damage to delicate fabrics. Additionally, pretreat any visible stains with a suitable stain remover or detergent for better results.

Step 2: Loading the Machine

Open the door of your Samsung washing machine and carefully load the prewashed items. Avoid overstuffing the machine to allow proper water circulation during the cycle. Leave enough space for the clothes to move freely.

Step 3: Selecting the Prewash Cycle

Locate the control panel on your Samsung washing machine. Look for the cycle selector knob or buttons. Scroll through the available cycles until you find the prewash cycle option. Depending on the model, it may be labeled as “Prewash” or “Extra Rinse” or have a specific symbol to indicate prewashing.

Step 4: Adjusting Settings

Once you’ve selected the prewash cycle, adjust the settings to suit your laundry. Samsung washing machines usually offer adjustable temperature, spin speed, and soil-level options.

Use the appropriate temperature setting based on the fabric care label instructions. Higher spin speeds are generally suitable for sturdy fabrics, while delicate items may require lower spin speeds. The soil level setting should match the dirtiness of the prewash load.

Step 5: Adding Detergent

Measure and pour the recommended amount of detergent into the detergent dispenser or directly into the drum. For prewashing, you can use the same detergent you use for regular washing cycles.

Follow the detergent packaging instructions for the correct amount based on the load size.

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Step 6: Initiating the Prewash Cycle

Close the door of the washing machine securely. Press the start button or turn the cycle selector knob to initiate the prewash cycle. The machine will begin filling with water, and the prewash cycle will commence. Samsung washing machines typically have sensors to determine the appropriate water level based on the load size.

Step 7: Monitoring the Cycle

During the prewash cycle, it is advisable to stay nearby to ensure everything is running smoothly. You may hear the machine agitating the clothes or see the drum rotating back and forth.

If any issues or abnormalities arise, such as excessive noise or water leakage, pause the cycle and consult the user manual or contact customer support.

Step 8: Completing the Prewash Cycle

Once the prewash cycle is complete, the washing machine will drain the water. Some Samsung models may automatically proceed to the main wash cycle, while others require manual intervention.

Refer to the user manual for specific instructions regarding your washing machine’s operation.

Step 9: Inspecting and Transferring

After the prewash cycle, open the door and inspect the clothes. Check for any remaining stains or dirt. If necessary, pretreat any remaining stains before transferring the items to the main wash cycle.

Carefully remove the prewashed clothes from the drum and load them into the machine for the regular wash.

That’s it.

Prewashing clothes in a Samsung washing machine is a straightforward process that involves proper sorting, selecting the prewash cycle, adjusting settings, adding detergent, and monitoring the cycle.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove stains and dirt from your clothes, ensuring cleaner and fresher garments.

Always refer to the user manual provided by Samsung for model-specific instructions and additional guidance.

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What is the difference between prewash and main wash?

The prewash and main wash cycles are both parts of the washing process, but they serve different purposes. Here are the main differences between the two cycles:

Prewash cycle

  • Used for heavily soiled or stained clothing.
  • Soaks the clothing before the wash cycle starts, helping to loosen up stains.
  • Fills with water, agitates, and spins.
  • Can be added at the beginning of most washing machine cycles.
  • Allows for maximum effectiveness of detergent or stain remover.
  • Useful for families with babies or toddlers in the house, especially if washing cloth diapers.

Main wash cycle

The main wash cycle determines the amount of water and energy that will be utilized, as well as how long and how vigorously your clothes will be agitated in the washing machine.

  • Uses fresh water and detergent to clean and sanitize the load.
  • Can be harsher on clothes than the prewash cycle.
  • Should only be used on sturdier materials like cotton t-shirts and pants.
  • Heavy duty cycle is the way to go for work clothes that end up heavily soiled.
  • The bedding/bulky items cycle is useful for washing large items like comforters and blankets.

Overall, the prewash cycle is an optional cycle that can be used to help remove stains and heavily soiled clothing. The main wash cycle is the primary cycle that cleans and sanitizes the load with fresh water and detergent.

What types of stains are best treated with the prewash cycle?

Different types of stains require different treatments, and the prewash cycle is best suited for heavily soiled or stained clothing. Here are some types of stains that are best treated with the prewash cycle:

  • Grass stains
  • Blood stains
  • Sweat stains
  • Coffee stains
  • Oil-based stains such as makeup, grease, and dirt
  • Stains caused by baby food, formula, or other not-so-pleasant soil
  • Sperm stains on bed sheets
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The prewash cycle is designed to soak the clothing before the wash cycle starts, helping to loosen up stains and remove dirt and odors. 

It allows for maximum effectiveness of detergent or stain remover, making it an effective tool for removing tough stains