Laundry timer
A free laundry timer that loads 45 minutes, about the length of a normal wash cycle. Start it when you press the machine's button and the alarm tells you to move the load before it sits and sours. On a desktop, tick Notify and the alert pops up even if you are working in another window. Also searched as washing machine timer, dryer timer, wash cycle timer.
Typical cycle lengths
| Cycle | Typical time | Preset |
|---|---|---|
| Quick wash | 15 to 30 minutes | 30 minute timer |
| Normal wash | 45 to 60 minutes | This page, or the 1 hour timer |
| Heavy duty or sanitize | 60 to 90 minutes | 90 minute timer |
| Dryer, normal | 45 to 60 minutes | This page |
| Dryer, delicate or low heat | About 30 minutes | 30 minute timer |
| Air drying indoors | Several hours to overnight | 2 hour timer, then check |
Front loaders and high-efficiency machines often run longer than the table. Add ten minutes if yours has an extra rinse or a long spin.
Why the reminder matters
- Mildew. A wet load left in a closed drum for many hours starts to smell, and the smell survives a second wash.
- Wrinkles. Clothes that cool in a stopped dryer set their creases. Pulling them out warm saves ironing.
- Shared machines. In an apartment laundry room, being back on time keeps the peace.
Tips
- Set the timer two or three minutes longer than the display shows, so the alarm never rings before the door unlocks.
- Use the countdown timer to type an exact length such as 1 hour 12 minutes.
- Press R to reset and start again for the dryer load.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a washing machine cycle take?
A quick wash runs 15 to 30 minutes, a normal cycle 45 to 60 minutes, and heavy or sanitize cycles 60 to 90 minutes. Check your machine's display and set the timer to match.
Why not just listen for the machine's beep?
Most machines beep once and quietly. A browser timer with Notify turned on reaches you in another room or on a desktop in another window.
How long can wet laundry sit in the washer?
A few hours is usually fine. After eight to twelve hours in a closed drum, especially in warm weather, a musty smell and mildew become likely.
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