Ever stared at your washing machine, wondering if your comforter or heavy towels belong in the “bulky items” cycle? You’re not alone—many people question what “bulky items” really means and whether using the wrong setting could harm their laundry.
Understanding the “bulky items” option is crucial for keeping large or heavy fabrics clean without damaging your washer. In this article, we’ll break down what counts as a bulky item and share simple tips for best results.
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What Does “Bulky Items” Mean on a Washing Machine?
When using your washing machine, you may have noticed a setting labeled “bulky,” “bulky items,” or “bulky/bedding.” But what exactly does this mean? The “bulky items” setting is specifically designed for washing large, heavy, or awkwardly shaped things that don’t fit into the drum as easily as regular laundry. These could be comforters, blankets, pillows, large coats, or dog beds—anything that takes up a lot of space and absorbs plenty of water during a wash.
This setting uses special wash patterns, water levels, and spin speeds to clean these items more effectively while helping protect both your laundry and your machine.
Understanding the “Bulky Items” Setting
Let’s dive deeper to understand why your washing machine has a special cycle just for these larger-than-normal items.
What Qualifies as a Bulky Item?
“Bulky items” refer to laundry pieces that are:
- Large in size (e.g., comforters, bedspreads, quilts)
- Thick or heavy (e.g., winter coats, sleeping bags)
- Absorbent and hold a lot of water (e.g., bathroom rugs, mattress pads)
Typical examples include:
- Comforters and duvets
- Blankets and quilts
- Pillows (check the label for washability)
- Heavy jackets and coats
- Bathroom mats and large towels
- Pet beds and throws
Why Can’t I Wash Bulky Items on a Normal Cycle?
Washing bulky items the same way you would wash t-shirts or jeans can create problems, including:
- Poor cleaning: Regular cycles may not use enough water or agitation to reach dirt trapped deep inside thick items.
- Uneven washing: Bulky items can clump up, leading to areas that are left unwashed or poorly rinsed.
- Machine stress: Heavy, water-logged items can unbalance the drum, leading to loud banging and potentially damaging your washing machine.
How Does the “Bulky Items” Setting Work?
Your washing machine’s “bulky” cycle addresses these challenges through several tailored adjustments:
1. Increased Water Levels
- The cycle uses significantly more water to ensure bulky items are thoroughly soaked and moved around easily.
- This helps the detergent fully penetrate dense fabrics.
2. Slower, Gentle Agitation
- Rather than vigorous spinning, this cycle often tumbles items slowly, reducing the risk of unbalancing.
- It helps move large items around for a more even wash.
3. Longer Soak Time
- The cycle may include extended soaking to help loosen and remove dirt trapped in thick materials.
4. Adjusted Spin Speed
- Usually, the spin speed is reduced to prevent excessive stress on the machine and protect your items from damage.
- Sometimes, a middle or low spin is used so water is removed without harming the item’s shape.
Using the Bulky Items Setting: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s how you can effectively use this cycle to get the best cleaning results and extend the life of both your laundry and your washer.
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Check the Care Label
- Always look for care instructions on bulky items.
- Some may require a delicate cycle or professional cleaning.
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Load Properly
- Place items loosely—don’t cram the drum. One or two bulky items per load is best.
- Balance the load by folding large items in a U-shape around the agitator or drum.
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Select the Correct Cycle
- Choose “Bulky,” “Bedding,” or “Bulky/Heavy Duty,” depending on your machine’s options.
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Use the Right Detergent
- Measure detergent for large loads.
- For thick materials, a little extra detergent may help, but don’t overdo it.
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Monitor the Load
- If your machine gets noisy or shakes a lot, pause and redistribute the items.
- Some washers will stop mid-cycle if they detect the load is out of balance.
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Dry Carefully
- Check care instructions again before using a dryer.
- Dry large items one at a time, using low or moderate heat.
- Fluff or shake out items between drying cycles to avoid clumping.
Benefits of Using the “Bulky Items” Setting
Choosing the right cycle isn’t just about convenience; it protects your investment in both your linens and your appliances.
- Thorough Cleaning: Special soaking and movement ensure that thick or padded items get clean all the way through.
- Machine Longevity: The cycle’s slower spins and water levels reduce strain and unbalanced loads, extending the life of your washing machine.
- Fabric Protection: Gentle agitation prevents tearing, stretching, or damaging delicate seams on heavy fabrics.
- Energy Efficiency: Modern machines tailor water and energy use to the size of the load, even with the bulky cycle.
Common Challenges And How To Solve Them
Even with the best intentions, washing bulky items can present a few hurdles. Here’s how to handle them:
1. Unbalanced Loads
- Problem: Large items can get heavy with water and shift to one side, causing the machine to shake or stop.
- Solution: Pause the cycle, open the lid, and redistribute the load evenly.
2. Poor Cleaning Performance
- Problem: Dirty spots left on comforters or large towels.
- Solution: Don’t overload the washer. Make sure there’s enough room for water and detergent to circulate.
3. Detergent Residue
- Problem: Thick items can trap detergent, leaving residues.
- Solution: Add an extra rinse cycle or select the “extra rinse” option if your washer has it.
4. Slow or Incomplete Drying
- Problem: Large items come out of the dryer damp or lumpy.
- Solution: Dry single items at a time, pause to rearrange, or use clean tennis balls to help fluff the load.
Best Practices and Pro Tips
Want flawless results every time? Keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t Overload: One or two large items per wash, max.
- Pre-treat Stains: Apply stain remover before washing to help break down stubborn spots.
- Balance the Drum: For single heavy items, add towels to help balance the load.
- Shake Out Bulky Items: After washing and before drying, shake out comforters or coats to redistribute filling.
- Regular Maintenance: Clean your washing machine’s filter and run a drum cleaning cycle occasionally, as bulky loads can release lint and dirt into nooks and crannies.
A Closer Look: Bulky vs. Other Common Washer Settings
Bulky/Bedding
- Designed for heavy, absorbent pieces.
- More water and gentle movement.
Delicate/Gentle
- Uses minimal agitation for sensitive fabrics.
- Not ideal for weighty or dense items.
Heavy Duty
- More intense agitation, for durable clothes.
- Can damage or improperly wash large, padded items.
Normal
- Best for standard loads: shirts, underwear, pants.
- Lacks the water volume and movement needed for bulky things.
Summary
The “bulky items” setting on your washing machine is specifically designed to manage large, heavy, and absorbent laundry that requires special attention. By increasing water levels, extending soak time, and altering agitation and spin speeds, this cycle helps you get cleaner bedding, comforters, jackets, and more—while protecting your washer from unnecessary wear.
Knowing how and when to use the bulky setting means fresher, longer-lasting laundry and a happier, healthier washing machine. With the right tips and care, you can tackle even the bulkiest loads with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I wash a comforter or duvet in a regular cycle instead of the bulky setting?
Washing a comforter in a regular or normal cycle is not recommended. These cycles often don’t provide enough water or gentle movement to clean thick, heavy textiles properly. Using the “bulky” or “bedding” setting ensures better cleaning and reduces wear on both your bedding and your washing machine.
2. What should I do if my washing machine becomes unbalanced when washing bulky items?
If your machine shakes or thumps loudly, pause the cycle and redistribute the load. Try folding or spreading out the item around the drum to create better balance. Adding a towel or two can help even out the weight, especially if you’re only washing one bulky item.
3. How much detergent should I use for bulky items?
Bulky loads may require a bit more detergent than regular ones, but it’s best not to overdo it. Follow your detergent manufacturer’s instructions for large or heavily soiled loads. Too much detergent can lead to excess suds and residue, so consider using an extra rinse cycle for thick items.
4. Can all bulky items go in the washer and dryer?
No, not all bulky items are machine washable or dryer safe. Always check the care label first. Some materials or fillings, like down feathers, wool, or memory foam, may require special care or professional cleaning to prevent damage.
5. Why does my comforter still feel damp after a full dryer cycle?
Bulky items, especially comforters and heavy blankets, often take longer to dry due to their thickness and ability to retain water. Try running the dryer again, using low or medium heat, and periodically pausing to redistribute the item and prevent clumping. Adding dryer balls or clean tennis balls can help fluff and separate the filling for faster, more even drying.
Using the “bulky items” setting doesn’t just make laundry day easier—it’s your secret weapon for cleaner, cozier linens and a long-lived washing machine. Armed with the right knowledge and a few simple tricks, you’ll keep your household’s biggest laundry fresh, fluffy, and spotless!