The amount of dirt and grime present on laundry before washing determines the appropriate settings for optimal cleaning. For example, lightly soiled clothes, such as those worn briefly indoors, require less aggressive washing than heavily soiled items like muddy gardening clothes or greasy work uniforms. Recognizing this distinction helps prevent both under-cleaning and potential damage from unnecessarily vigorous cycles.
Accurately assessing the degree of soiling allows for efficient use of resources like water and energy. Selecting the correct wash cycle based on soiling minimizes wear and tear on fabrics, extending their lifespan. Historically, judging laundry soiling relied on visual inspection and experience. Modern washing machines offer pre-programmed settings designed to address varying levels of soiling, simplifying this process. This advancement contributes to more sustainable laundry practices and improved fabric care.