Fijnwas

Fijnwas, meaning “fine wash” in Dutch, is a washing machine program designed for delicate fabrics. It provides gentler agitation, lower temperatures, and slower spin speeds to minimize wear and fiber damage. The cycle is typically marketed as a delicate or hand-wash option and is common on many domestic washing machines.

Fijnwas is suitable for fabrics such as silk, wool, lace, satin, cashmere, and lingerie, as well as lightweight synthetics. It is generally not intended for heavily soiled items or fabrics that require robust cleaning action. Some garments may still require hand washing or dry cleaning, depending on care labels and fabric composition.

Typical settings for een fijnwas cycle include low temperatures, commonly around 30°C or cooler, reduced drum movement, and a gentle or no-spin interval. Many machines also offer an extra-rinse option or a shorter cycle for delicate items. Detergent guidelines usually recommend a mild detergent formulated for delicates; bleach is discouraged, and gentle detergents help preserve fiber integrity.

Tips for use include not overloading the drum, removing items promptly after washing to minimize creasing, and following garment care labels for temperature and handling. For blends or uncertain fabrics, testing on a small area or selecting a gentler cycle may reduce the risk of damage.

Overall, fijnwas is a specialized setting intended to protect delicate textiles while providing effective cleaning at lower mechanical stress compared to regular cycles.