If you’ve ever taken a sweater out of the washing machine to find a collection of tangled threads, you wouldn’t be the first. Whirlpool’s new washing machine comes with a feature that aims to solve the problem without requiring hand washing or running a dedicated delicate cycle.
The new Whirlpool top-load washer features a built-in delicates basket that sits inside the drum, protecting sweaters and other fragile items from the hustle and bustle of a regular wash cycle. The hamper also consolidates socks in one place, making it easy to match and fold once laundry is done.
Serial sock losers will appreciate Whirlpool’s first delicates basket.
David Watsky/CNETWhile The LG Companion Stand Washer makes a similar claim, this version features a separate wash tub below the main drum. Whirlpool’s is a simple plastic basket, large enough for a sweater and lots of socks, that sits just above the machine’s impeller, inside the drum.
The basket can be removed to collect your delicate laundry or left aside for washing that does not require it.
David Watsky/CNETI saw the soon to be released machine at KBIS in Orlando. A few weeks before, I had ruined one of my favorite sweaters while washing it in the machine, so this feature won me over. The idea is so simple and clever, but this seems to be the only modern washing machine to incorporate it.
Whirlpool launched a delicate basket for soft sweaters and socks at KBIS 2026.
David Watsky/CNETAlthough we haven’t yet gotten to see the machine in action (it was only on display), a Whirlpool representative told me that clothes placed in the center rack stay there throughout the cycle, thanks to the distinct water flow patterns.
The basket is easily removed by gently pressing the handles, so you can extract your delicate items and socks. You can also leave the basket outside if it is not needed for a particular wash cycle.
Pricing was not available, but the washing machine is expected to launch to national retailers in September.
