The “Sanitize with Oxi” function on a washing machine is a feature designed to provide a high level of cleanliness in your laundry. It’s a term that’s become increasingly common on washing machine models from companies like GE and Whirlpool. But what exactly does it mean and how does it work? In this article, we will delve into the specifics of this function, its benefits, potential drawbacks, and how to make the most of it in your routine laundry practices.
The “Sanitize with Oxi” function on a washing machine is a special cycle designed to remove 99.9% of bacteria from your laundry. It works by using a combination of an Oxi additive, which refers to oxygen-based cleaning products like OxiClean, and your regular laundry detergent. The cycle uses hot water and a longer wash time to effectively sanitize your laundry.
What is the “Sanitize with Oxi” Feature?
The “Sanitize with Oxi” feature refers to a specific cycle in the washing machine designed to remove 99.9% of bacteria found in your laundry. This is achieved when used in combination with an Oxi additive and your regular laundry detergent. The term “Oxi” refers to oxygen-based cleaning products, such as OxiClean, known for their sanitizing and stain-removing properties.
How Does It Work?
To use the “Sanitize with Oxi” function, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Add your clothes to the washer.
- Measure out the detergent and Oxi product carefully, using the amounts recommended by the product manufacturers for a large, heavily soiled load.
- Place the detergent and Oxi product directly on top of the load.
- Ensure that the washer’s hot water supply connection provides a minimum of 120° Fahrenheit to guarantee the effectiveness of this cycle.
The “Sanitize with Oxi” cycle uses elevated water temperature and a longer wash cycle to effectively kill bacteria. The default water temperature for this cycle cannot be changed.
Benefits of Using the “Sanitize with Oxi” Feature
There are several benefits associated with using the “Sanitize with Oxi” feature:
- Enhanced hygiene: This cycle provides an extra layer of protection against harmful bacteria, ensuring clean and germ-free laundry.
- Effective sanitization: The cycle uses extra-hot water (minimum 120° Fahrenheit) to eliminate 99.9% of common household bacteria.
- Compatibility with Oxi products: The cycle is specifically designed to work with Oxi additives, which are released at the right time for optimal cleaning performance.
Potential Downsides
While the “Sanitize with Oxi” feature offers several benefits, there are potential downsides to be aware of:
- Effectiveness: Critics argue that Oxi washes may not provide adequate disinfection compared to traditional sanitizing methods.
- Load limitations: The cycle is suitable for items like bed sheets, babywear, and underwear, but the load should not exceed 11 lbs. Overloading the washer may reduce the effectiveness of the sanitizing process.
- Spot-testing: OxiClean can sometimes cause damage to certain fabrics. It’s essential to spot-test the OxiClean product on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on a larger scale.
Making the Most of the “Sanitize with Oxi” Feature
To maximize the benefits of the “Sanitize with Oxi” feature, follow these tips:
- Choose the right Oxi product: Use an Oxi additive that is designed to work as a disinfectant, such as OxiClean Laundry & Home Sanitizer.
- Measure the detergent and Oxi product: Use the amounts recommended by the products’ manufacturers for a large, heavily soiled load.
- Load the washer: Add the clothes to the washer and then place the detergent and Oxi product directly on top of the load.
- Select the “Sanitize with Oxi” cycle: This cycle is designed to remove 99.9% of bacteria found in home laundry.
By following these steps, you can effectively use the “Sanitize with Oxi” feature to remove bacteria and maintain a high level of cleanliness in your laundry.
Conclusion
The “Sanitize with Oxi” feature is an effective method to achieve a high level of cleanliness in your laundry. While there are a few potential downsides, the benefits of this feature make it a valuable addition to your routine laundry practices. As always, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for load size, detergent, and Oxi additive usage to ensure the best results. With proper use, the “Sanitize with Oxi” feature can provide a significant boost to your laundry’s cleanliness and hygiene.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of laundry additives with the “Sanitize with Oxi” cycle?
The “Sanitize with Oxi” cycle is specifically designed to work with Oxi products. While you can use other laundry additives, they may not provide the same level of sanitization and stain removal.
Is it safe to use the “Sanitize with Oxi” feature on all types of fabrics?
Generally, the “Sanitize with Oxi” cycle is safe for most types of fabrics. However, Oxi products can sometimes cause damage to certain fabrics. It’s recommended to spot-test the Oxi product on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on a larger scale.
I don’t have a hot water supply connection that provides a minimum of 120° Fahrenheit. Can I still use the “Sanitize with Oxi” feature?
The “Sanitize with Oxi” cycle requires a hot water supply connection that provides a minimum of 120° Fahrenheit to guarantee the effectiveness of the cycle. If your water supply doesn’t reach this temperature, the cycle may not effectively kill bacteria.
Can I use the “Sanitize with Oxi” feature for small loads?
Yes, you can use the “Sanitize with Oxi” feature for small loads. However, it’s important to adjust the amount of detergent and Oxi product used according to the size of the load to ensure effective cleaning and sanitization.
Can I use the “Sanitize with Oxi” feature without an Oxi product?
The “Sanitize with Oxi” feature is specifically designed to work with an Oxi additive. While the cycle will still provide a high-temperature wash without the additive, it may not offer the same level of bacteria removal as when used with an Oxi product.
