Electrolux Perfect Steam Washer Cycles (What They Are and How to Use Them Effectively)
The Electrolux Perfect Steam washer is known for its sleek design, smart features, and advanced cleaning capabilities, but what really sets it apart are its versatile and thoughtfully engineered wash cycles.
If you’re unsure which cycle to use or how to get the most out of steam-powered washing, this guide breaks down the key cycles, what they do, and when to use them.
What Is the Electrolux Perfect Steam Washer?
The Electrolux Perfect Steam washer is a front load washer available in premium Electrolux models like the ELFW7637AW and ELFW7537AT. It features a built-in steam generator that works alongside standard wash motions to loosen dirt, lift stains, reduce wrinkles, and sanitize laundry, without harsh treatment or excessive wear.
The washer’s steam capabilities are integrated into multiple wash cycles, not just one, allowing you to benefit from steam-enhanced cleaning across a range of fabric types and soil levels.
Electrolux Perfect Steam Washer Cycles: Full List and How They Work
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular Electrolux washer cycles with steam functionality, as well as the other core wash cycles designed for specific needs.
Normal Cycle (With Optional Steam)
This is the go-to setting for everyday laundry like t-shirts, jeans, and undergarments. You can add steam to this cycle to boost cleaning performance without using hot water.
- Good for mixed fabrics
- Can handle light to moderate soil
- Steam helps loosen dirt for better stain removal
Heavy Duty Cycle
Designed for large, dirty loads like work clothes, muddy towels, or uniforms. Steam penetrates deep into thick fabrics to remove embedded soil.
- Use for towels, jeans, and durable items
- Longer agitation and soak time
- Optional sanitize mode often pairs well with this cycle
Sanitize Cycle
This cycle uses extra-hot water and steam to kill 99.9% of common bacteria. It’s ideal for sheets, baby clothes, or clothes worn during illness.
- Approved by NSF for sanitization
- Automatically activates steam
- Not recommended for delicate fabrics
Delicates Cycle
Gentle enough for silks, lace, and other fine fabrics. This cycle uses minimal agitation, slower spin speeds, and lower water temperatures.
- Steam not used by default, but available on some models
- Great for lingerie, hand-wash-only items, or blouses
- Use a mesh laundry bag for added protection
Activewear Cycle
Tailored to synthetic fibers like polyester, spandex, and performance blends. Steam helps eliminate sweat odors without damaging elasticity.
- Use for gym clothes, yoga wear, sports uniforms
- Gentle tumbling with warm water
- No fabric softener recommended
Whitest Whites Cycle
A steam-boosted high-intensity cycle that combines hot water, bleach, and steam to restore brightness to white garments.
- Ideal for socks, white t-shirts, and linens
- Use with non-chlorine bleach for safer fabric care
- Helps remove yellowing and body oil stains
Quick Wash Cycle
Designed for lightly soiled loads that need a fast turnaround. Most Electrolux models complete this in under 20 minutes. Steam is not used by default but may be available as an add-on.
- Best for small loads
- Lower water levels, fast agitation
- Optional Extra Rinse can improve performance
Rinse & Spin / Clean Washer Cycle
Rinse & Spin is for freshening up clothes with water only, no detergent or steam. The Clean Washer cycle, however, uses steam and high heat to sanitize the drum. Run this monthly with no laundry inside.
- Helps prevent mold and odor buildup
- Use with Affresh or white vinegar
- Essential for front load washer maintenance
How to Use Steam in Electrolux Washer Cycles
Not all cycles automatically activate steam, you may need to manually select the steam option on your control panel. Look for a “Steam” button or an option to toggle steam on/off during cycle selection.
Tips:
- Use steam for deep-cleaning, odor removal, and sanitization
- Avoid using steam with delicate or cold-only items
- Always follow garment care labels to avoid shrinking or fabric damage
Final Thoughts
The Electrolux Perfect Steam washer cycles are more than just presets, they’re engineered to give you smarter, fabric-specific cleaning with the added power of steam. Whether you want to sanitize kids’ clothes, eliminate gym odors, or protect delicates, there’s a cycle designed to do the job right.
Take a few minutes to learn which cycle fits your load, and your clothes will look cleaner, smell fresher, and last longer. If your model offers it, activate steam whenever you’re dealing with odors, deep stains, or bulky items, it’s a small feature with a big payoff.
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