Permanent press (often called "perm press") on a dryer is a specific cycle designed to minimize wrinkles in clothes and reduce the need for ironing. It uses medium heat and includes a cool-down period or tumbling without heat at the end of the cycle. This combination helps clothes dry gently and prevents wrinkles from settling in the fabric. It is ideal for synthetic or semi- synthetic fabrics, as well as clothes that tend to wrinkle easily, such as blouses, dresses, and professional wear. The perm press cycle typically uses:
- Medium heat drying to be gentler on clothes,
- A cooler tumbling or cool-down phase at the end to prevent wrinkles and creases,
- Lower overall heat compared to regular cycles to reduce the risk of shrinkage and fabric damage.
This cycle is useful for maintaining the look of clothes by keeping them smoother, reducing fading, and preventing shrinkage. It is a gentler alternative to high heat drying, which can cause damage and wrinkles.