Washer - Prewash and AutoSoak Cycles

The Prewash and AutoSoak cycles provide an extra cycle option for heavily soiled clothes. The following information explains the options and how to use them on current washer models. You can also consult the owner's manual for available options and how to use them on your specific washer model.

 

• The Prewash cycle option is for use when clothes are excessively soiled. Prewash is an extra wash before the main wash. Use it for heavily soiled clothes or for clothes with a care label that recommends prewashing before washing. Be sure to add liquid or powder high-efficiency detergent, or the proper wash additive to the prewash dispenser. Washers equipped with SmartDispense™ will automatically add the proper amount of detergent for prewash based on the load size. Prewash must be selected prior to pressing the Start/Pause pad. The Prewash feature will fill the washer (adding the prewash detergent), tumble or agitate the clothes, drain and spin. Then, the washer will run the selected wash cycle.

 

• The AutoSoak cycle option is for use with most soaking aids to loosen embedded soils and stains. It enables you to soak your garments prior to the wash cycle. This option begins with a brief tumble or agitation and then proceeds to soak the clothes with water and detergent for a specified period of time. Once complete, the cycle will continue automatically. AutoSoak must be selected prior to pressing the Start/Pause pad. The AutoSoak time will add an additional 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour or 2 hours to the overall wash time. High-efficiency detergent from the main wash compartment in the dispenser is used for the AutoSoak period and main wash cycle.

 

On models without an AutoSoak cycle, soaking can be accomplished by allowing the washer to fill with water and agitate or tumble for a few minutes. Then, press the Start/Pause pad. After allowing the wash load to soak for a period of time, you press the Start/Pause pad again to start the selected wash cycle. The washer will automatically drain if left in a paused state with the lid closed or door closed for more than 24 hours.