Most of us stick to the same few settings on our washing machine, dishwasher, or oven – usually the quick or standard ones we know best. But modern appliances are packed with smart features designed to save time, energy, and wear on clothes or dishes. Hidden behind buttons and menus are special programs that can make everyday chores easier and more efficient. Here’s how to get more out of your appliances at home.

Washing Machine: Gentle Care and Smart Efficiency

The washing machine is often the most underused when it comes to special settings. Many Australians simply choose “cotton” or “synthetic,” but there are programs tailored for specific needs.

• Wool or Hand Wash – Uses low temperatures and gentle drum movements to protect delicate fabrics that would otherwise need handwashing.
• Sportswear or Outdoor Gear – Maintains the breathability and waterproofing of activewear, ideal for gym clothes or hiking gear.
• Allergy or Hygiene – Washes at higher temperatures with extra rinses to remove detergent residue and allergens – great for households with sensitive skin.
• Steam Refresh – Freshens up clothes without a full wash, reducing odours and wrinkles. Perfect for work shirts or lightly worn outfits.
• Quick Wash – A short cycle for lightly soiled clothes. It saves water and energy but shouldn’t replace a full wash every time.

Choosing the right program can extend the life of your clothes and reduce energy use. Also, try lowering the spin speed for delicate fabrics – it’s gentler and helps prevent stretching.

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Dishwasher: Beyond “Eco” and “Intensive”

Dishwashers have come a long way, and many now include smart sensors and special cycles that can make a big difference.

• Glassware Program – Uses lower temperatures and gentler water pressure to protect wine glasses and prevent clouding.
• Auto Program – Sensors detect how dirty the water is and adjust time and temperature automatically, saving both water and electricity.
• Quick Wash – Ideal for lightly soiled dishes when you need a fast turnaround after a barbecue or dinner party.
• Half Load – Reduces water and energy use when the machine isn’t full – handy for smaller households.
• Extra Dry – Improves drying results, especially for plastic containers, though it uses a bit more energy.

When you have time, use the eco program – it takes longer but uses significantly less energy. For busy evenings, the quick cycle can be a lifesaver.

Oven: Precision and Energy Savings

Many people only use fan-forced or conventional heat, but modern ovens offer a range of special settings that can improve cooking results and efficiency.

• Pizza or Bread Mode – Combines high heat and bottom heating for a crisp base and fluffy interior.
• Defrost – Circulates air at a low temperature to thaw food evenly without starting the cooking process.
• Steam Cooking – Keeps food moist and enhances flavour while preserving nutrients – great for roasts and vegetables.
• Slow Cook or Roast – Perfect for large cuts of meat, producing tender results with minimal effort.
• Pyrolytic Cleaning – Burns off food residue at high heat, so you can simply wipe away the ash – no scrubbing required.

Using the right program can help you cook more precisely and avoid wasting energy. Many ovens also have preheat or rapid-heat functions that save time when you’re in a hurry.

Dryer: Gentle Drying and Less Creasing

Dryers can be energy-hungry, but newer models include smart features that protect fabrics and reduce power use.

• Delicate or Gentle Dry – Uses lower heat and slower drum movement for fragile fabrics.
• Iron Dry – Leaves clothes slightly damp, making them easier to iron.
• Wool or Silk – Works with a drying bag to prevent shrinkage and maintain shape.
• Air Refresh – Removes odours from clothes that don’t need washing, like jackets or stored garments.
• Sensor Drying – Automatically stops when clothes are dry, saving energy and preventing over-drying.

Keep your dryer running efficiently by cleaning the lint filter regularly and emptying the water tank if it’s a condenser model.

Get to Know Your Appliances

It’s tempting to skip the user manual, but it’s full of useful information about which programs suit your needs best. Many brands also offer smartphone apps that let you control your appliances remotely, track energy use, and access extra features.

Small Changes, Big Results

Using special settings isn’t about complicating your routine – it’s about making the most of the technology you already have. You can save electricity, water, and time while getting better results. Next time you load the machine, try a program you’ve never used before. You might be surprised at how much smarter your appliances really are.