What Is Whirlpool ColorLast? (What to Know)
Whirlpool ColorLast is a wash technology built into select Whirlpool washers that’s designed to help preserve the color of your clothes, even after repeated washes. It combines optimized wash actions, cooler water temperatures, and detergent-friendly cycles to reduce color fading and fabric wear, especially on dark or bright-colored garments.
If your clothes seem to lose vibrancy over time, ColorLast helps maintain that “new clothes” look by preventing overwashing and color bleed. It’s not just a wash cycle, it’s a targeted combination of settings that make a difference where it matters.
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How Whirlpool ColorLast Works
Whirlpool’s ColorLast technology doesn’t rely on a single feature. It’s a preset mix of cooler water temps, precise wash motions, and efficient rinse phases that work together to protect fabrics and dye integrity.
The system:
- Uses cooler water temperatures to prevent dye from loosening
- Applies gentle agitation to minimize friction
- Times the wash for optimum detergent performance
- Integrates HE detergent-friendly rinsing to avoid buildup
Depending on your model, ColorLast may appear as a standalone cycle or as an add-on option you can activate with Normal or Delicates settings.
When to Use the ColorLast Feature
Use ColorLast for:
- Bright or dark t-shirts, jeans, and blouses
- Clothing labeled “color-safe wash” or “wash inside out”
- Items that fade easily (reds, navies, blacks)
- First washes of new garments
It’s especially useful for those who wear bold colors often, or who want to extend the life of their wardrobe.
Whirlpool Washer Models That Include ColorLast
ColorLast is available in many Whirlpool High-Efficiency top and front load washers. Look for models in the WFW or WTW series, including:
- Whirlpool WTW5000DW
- Whirlpool WTW7000DW
- Whirlpool WFW92HEFW
- Whirlpool WFW6620HW
If your washer doesn’t say “ColorLast,” check your cycle descriptions, some Whirlpool manuals mention the feature without labeling it on the control panel.
Best Practices for Color Care with ColorLast
To get the most out of ColorLast:
- Always sort colors properly, don’t mix whites or heavily dyed items
- Use cold water detergent or detergent labeled “color safe”
- Wash inside out to reduce friction and fading
- Avoid overloading the washer, which increases fabric rubbing
- Dry clothes on low or air dry settings when possible
ColorLast won’t prevent all fading, but it can slow it down significantly, especially when paired with good laundry habits.
Final Thoughts
If you’re someone who wants your clothes to look good longer, Whirlpool ColorLast is more than a gimmick, it’s a real solution. While it can’t stop fading forever, it’s a valuable tool for anyone who wears a lot of bright or dark fabrics and wants to keep them looking sharp over time.
If you own a Whirlpool washer with ColorLast, use it regularly, especially for newer clothes or wardrobe favorites. You’ll notice the difference in vibrancy, softness, and how long your favorite items last.
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