(57) A method of washing textile articles in which, whilst the articles are immersed in
a washing liquid, the liquid may be heated to a low temperature in the region of 30°C
and is agitated for brief periods in the region of 15 to 60 seconds by reversals of
a drum (2) rotatable about substantial horizontal axis and containing the liquid and
articles in each of a succession of longer basic periods in the region of 5 to 20
minutes, all continuing over a period of 2 hours or longer. Preferably increments
of rotation are of different amounts in opposite directions respectively. A machine
having a control means (10, 29, 44) determining the temperature (44) of the liquid
and the durations of the basic periods and periods of agitation is also provided.
The method of washing provides considerable saving in energy whilst achieving satisfactory
cleanliness of the articles washed.
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