Science Secrets · Drawing 39 of 40
The Washing Machine Gives Clothes a Spin
Everyday Inventions
During the spin cycle, the drum turns quickly. This rotation helps remove water from clothes. Water passes through the drum’s openings and the machine drains it away.
Did you know?
Clothes are still damp after spinning.
Look together
Why does the drum have small openings?
An idea to try
With an adult, observe a closed machine from outside. Compare slow washing rotation and spinning if they are visible.
For the adult reading along
A little more to discover
The drum makes the fabric follow a circular path; water can pass through its perforations. The page is an outside observation, without opening or handling a running machine.
Sources and illustration notes (1)
Simplified scene and shapes. Models, imagined comparisons and enlargements do not preserve all real measurements.
These links lead to other websites. Explore them with an adult. References identify the institution and the related lesson; some linked pages are in French.
- Whirlpool: Washer and Dryer Cycles ExplainedDuring the spin cycle, the drum turns quickly. This rotation helps remove water from clothes. Water passes through the drum’s openings and the machine drains it away.
Source review: 2026-10-12. Illustrations are simplified for colouring.
