Wrinkle prevent keeps the dryer tumbling the load briefly now and then after the drying cycle has finished, so clothes don't settle into creases if you can't unload them right away. It is the most common reason a dryer seems to "start again by itself," and knowing how it works saves a needless worry.
How it works, step by step
- You select the option before starting. Whirlpool's guide to the option says to choose Wrinkle Prevent or Wrinkle Shield before starting the cycle. Other brands use names like wrinkle guard.
- The dryer runs the normal cycle. It dries the load and finishes with its cool-down tumble.
- The cycle ends. The display shows the cycle is done, and you may hear the end-of-cycle signal.
- The drum tumbles at intervals. Whirlpool describes the dryer intermittently tumbling the laundry after the drying cycle completes, which keeps fabric from settling into creases as it cools.
- It keeps going for a set period. The length and the gaps between tumbles depend on the model.
- Opening the door ends it on most models, since you are there to unload.
Some models add steam. Whirlpool offers Wrinkle Prevent with Steam on some dryers, and its steam dryer explainer describes wrinkle-prevention cycles that tumble clothes with steam and keep tumbling for a while after the cycle ends.
What you'll notice because of it
- The drum turning by itself a few minutes after the cycle finished.
- Short bursts of tumbling with quiet gaps between them.
- Clothes that are cool or barely warm when you finally unload.
- A dryer that looks "on" even though drying is complete.
Where it can go wrong
Mistaken for a dryer that won't stop
Symptom: the drum keeps turning after the cycle ends. If it turns in short bursts and stops when you open the door, that is the option working. A dryer that keeps heating or runs continuously with the door closed and the cycle done needs a technician.
The option doesn't run
Symptom: you selected it, but the drum never moves after the cycle ends. The option may not have registered, or the control may have a fault.
Clothes still wrinkled
Symptom: creased clothes despite the option. Whirlpool says excessive loads can hinder the tumbling, that new wrinkles can form if clothes are left too long, and that the feature does less for heavier cottons and linen. Over-drying can also set creases.
Getting the most out of it
- Use it for synthetics and permanent-press loads when you know you can't unload right away. Whirlpool says it works best with materials like polyester and nylon and suggests avoiding it with heavier cottons or linen.
- Don't overload the drum; clothes need room to fall and move.
- Avoid over-drying, which sets wrinkles. A sensor dry setting helps.
- Unload as soon as you can, even with the option on.
- If your dryer has steam, use the steam version for heavier wrinkles.
The steam version builds on the dryer's water supply; how the steam cycle in a dryer works explains that part. If your dryer keeps heating or running after the cycle should have ended, book dryer repair.
Sources
Worth knowing: Short bursts of tumbling after the cycle ends are a feature; continuous heat after the cycle ends is not.
Dryer still heating, or running without pause, after the cycle has ended? Unplug it if you can do so safely, and call ProFix Miami at (786) 723-6874.