Schonwäsche

Schonwäsche is a German term that translates literally to “gentle wash.” It refers to a washing‑machine setting designed for delicate fabrics such as silk, wool, and lingerie. The cycle uses lower water temperatures, gentler agitation, and a longer spin speed to minimize abrasion and shrinkage.

On most domestic machines, the Schonwäsche programme can be chosen from the menu or set by pressing a dedicated button. Typical cycles last between 40 and 90 minutes, with an optional “pre‑wash” for lightly soiled items. The water temperature is usually restricted to 30 °C or lower, and the spin speed to 400–600 rpm, compared with 800–1200 rpm for standard washes.

The primary benefit of Schonwäsche is the extended lifespan of delicate textiles. By reducing mechanical stress and over‑washing, it preserves colour fastness, shape, and feel. Manufacturers such as Bosch, Siemens, and Miele label the feature as “Delicates” or “Schonwäsche,” but the principles are the same across brands.

Care sheets on clothing often recommend the Schonwäsche option for items marked “hand wash” or “care label: delicate.” Users must still spin out excess water manually in some cases, as high spin speeds can still distort very fragile fibers. In summary, the Schonwäsche programme is a routine safeguard in German wash culture, aligning household laundry practices with fabric preservation guidelines.