Quick mix is a separate cycle on our WFMC3200UC; we use it often. I don't know what "XXSanitary" is, there is a temp boost cycle for this. The 4300 has a thing called "Speedmix" which is a variant on "quickmix". The 6400 has "Sanitary" (no XX) where the 3200's "Quick Mix" is on the selector dial, but a comparable "quick wash" is available through the menu. (The 6400 also has temp boost.)

I have not seen a WFMB3200UC (note the "B" instead of the "C"), which I gather is what you have. It sounds like a 'cross' model with some 6400 features in place of 3200 features. If it doesn't have the quick mix feature hidden somewhere, check your documentation to make sure they sent you the washer you paid for. - DR

dross--
you are correct about my model number --B, and I have put a call in to Bosch because I do not see the info in the product manual. It does sound as though they have a little bit of the 6400 features in lieu of some of the 3200's. Will post a follow-up.

By-the-way, I also have a temp boost, along with the sanitary that apparently goes to like 170, but am wondering which is a better feature - the quick mix or sanitary, being that I already have the temp boost.

I think that "sanitary" only goes to 155, while temp boost is 150; not really much difference. (The CDC gives 160F as a 'magic' number at which sanitizing washes should be done, hence some manufacturers like LG advertise this temp, but in fact (a) LG is exaggerating, their machine is no hotter than yours, and (b) the 160 kind of an arbitrary figure, getting well over 140 is the big deal for things like dust mites and conjunctivitis, after that the next big improvement is up at the near-boiling range where Askos and Mieles get.)

Given the choice I think the quick mix/quick wash/speed wash would be a more useful addition. I'm thinking that your machine must have the 6400's electronics and cycles, but 3200's control panel, which might mean that the machine is inherently capable of a quick wash but you do not have the control to tell it to do so. If so, then at least this means you would have the slightly superior sensor technology of the 6400, which is some compensation for the lack of quick wash. - DR

dross,
spoke to Bosch earlier today and at first they weren't sure what unit I had -- they did'nt know about the WFMB3200 vs the wfmc3200-- anyway they said the sanitary goes to 170 degrees and that the temp boost brings the water temp up faster. Also they said that if you have a small load, the washer determines this and washes the item faster. I would imagine less water, less rinse, etc, thus faster cycle -- no brainer there.

I bought from an appliance store that I felt would have better installers -- did do a good job on install and were curtious and respectful with property, no vibration issues at all and I have a second floor laundry. But the main reason I went there and not the "chain" is that I will not buy anything from B--- B-- ever, after a horrible TV delivery problem where they wouldn't bring 250 lb TV into my house because they said it wouldn't fit. -- it sits to this day perfectly where they said it wouldn't fit.

sanitary goes to 170 degrees

This might be true for the Axxis series, but not for the Nexxt. If the machines went that high, they wouldn't give the lower number in their press releases and sales literature, since this one number is a big competitive selling point. I've measured my machine on temp boost (K-type thermocouple probe), and it was just over 151F at the hottest.

It is true that smaller loads are faster, but that is true for the normal cycle on my 3200 and the 6400 as well. The "quick mix" cycle is an intentionally shorter-yet cycle.

The customer service guys you spoke were just making stuff up. This is pretty common among washer manufacturers, and is infuriating. It is not so much that they are lying as that they have no recognition that there is a difference between the truth and a fabrication. This is worse than lying, a liar has enough respect for the truth to intentionally flout it.

Is your manual for your "B" model, or did they just include the regular "C" model manual? Also, did they include the 8 by 10" plastic card with cycles and times? - DR

dross,
It is the B model. But, no, I didn't get the plastic card. I will call the appliance co. tomorrow thanks for the info.

*NEW --dross,
I don't know. Mine has the XXtra Sanitary feature that in the press release for the new models, says it goes to 170 degrees. It is written just like I have it spelled here -- on my machine, and on the new models. Also I got the pair for --with rebate --$1597. I did'nt think that was too bad considering the prices of many. Maybe I am wrong though. I hope I didn't get taken.

The 170F 'XXtra Sanitary' cycle is supposed to be new with the as-yet unreleased 500 and 700-series machines (see press release below). Those models do also have a 'quick wash' cycle. I don't know how they intend to manage the higher temp, unless they include a larger element (which would be great, by the way).

Perhaps your model is an intermediate one, with the innards of the 500 with a 3200 control panel, and they needed to steal the quick-mix spot on the dial for the sanitary option. Weird that Bosch has no information about your model on their website.

This is really interesting. Did they include a manual for your machine? Does it actually match your machine? What is the listed power consumption (max. watts - if you have no manual, this should be on a label on the machine)?

You got a great price for the pair, and even if you end up with no quick-mix cycle, if you have higher-model innards (and *especially* if you really have a bigger heating element!) it is a reasonable trade-off. I recall from other threads that you also have a better door gasket than on the older 3200 models, and that your machine is working fine on your 2nd floor installation. I think you should be very pleased! - DR

Here is a link that might be useful: Bosch press release

I like the Quick Mix feature of my 3200. It is perfect for clothes that are lightly soiled. Run time: 39 minutes.

Good luck with your new machine! I'm sure it has some sort of quick-mix feature (basically an abbreviated warm water wash cycle).

dross,
Yes, it does have a manual and it is called the "Nexxt Inspiration." I found the XXtra sanitary section and it states that the hot water is introduced at beginning of wash phase and then the heating element heats the water to 167-174 degreesfor a minimun of three minutes. And, by adding the power wash option those temps remain.

Serial number found on inside of washing door. same model number: WFMB3200 UC
120 V/AC 60 hz 15A 1350 watts(max) -- as listed for connection . On inside of door the amps listed is 10A.

Also, My max spin speed is 1000, not 1200, which is what I preferred to have being that I am on second floor. I sometimes use 900 rpm and my clothes are still dryer coming out of wash than ever before in my life with my top loader.

dross,

re: "I've measured my machine on temp boost (K-type thermocouple probe), and it was just over 151F at the hottest."

I'm just curious, how do you measure the wash temperature? Do you have some kind of waterproof datalogger you throw in with the wash?

steno1: This is the same wattage as my 3200, so the element is probably the same 1kW as on the other machines. Pity.
The extra 15-20 degrees should take such an element about 10-15 minutes just to get up to temp beyond the 'temp boost' level - that is, you get 3-4 minutes at 170 plus another 10-15 minutes at super-150F temperatures.

Your spin speed is the same as the older 3200 models.

gordonr: The actual temp probe is just a very thin flat length of wire, which I stick in the machine and close the door; the seal is still pretty good, though there is a small bit of water leakage out the door around the wire. Other end pops into the multimeter outside the machine.

Another common way to sample water temps is in the discharge water. This is no godd for measuring max temps on sanitary cycles, however, as many machines add cold water to the mix before venting the water (for safety reasons). - DR

dross,

Thanks for the rundown on your method. I'm often trying to figure out how to instrument this or that for measurement so it's good to hear how others are doing it.

I'd imagine your technique would be more accurate than measuring outlet temp even if they didn't mix down the temp. I'd guess the temp losses along the pump and hoses on the discharge circuit would make it difficult to get an accurate reading anyhow.

Dross, thanks for all your help. I do know that I have the same XXtra sanitary as the new models, and I feel pretty confident that it will heat up to stated temp. -- I think they would have too much to lose if they did misrepresent that--at least I hope anyway. They did say that there are some of the 6400's features in this model.

By-the-way, does your dryer make more noise from the clothes or from the dryer itself? I am trying to determine if this is correct of if something else. In the store I couldn't hear anything, but there were other things going on in store.

We don't have a Bosch dryer, the Nexxt washer is quieter than our Maytag dryer except when the spin is ramping up. - DR

FYI... That model number is showing up on one vendor's website - an appliance chaing in Montana.

Linked below.

- IT Geek

Here is a link that might be useful: WFMB3200 model link

Well I have to say that I have been really impressed so far with this set.

I have a baby and a 3 yr old who has had accidents at night wetting the bed lately. I have done bedding -- all of it: full-size comforter and towel, one load; sheets and blanket in another. and today did the same washing loads so far but dried the stuff on the "very dry" setting and I couldn't believe how fast they were dry. Also, I really haven't noticed the difference in length of wash times. It seems by the time I get back upstairs to put in dryer the load is done.

Dross,
I guess I should appreciate the features that I have especially because I honestly have not noticed a difference in length times of wash cycles, and more so because I have 2 kids and a husband who owns a construction company. I probably wouldn't use the quick wash all that often anyway, except for myself; but then that one pair of jeans wouldn't take as long in my machine anyway -- I don't think.

I hope things continue to go as well as they have with this set. I think I will be very happy.

I have been really impressed so far with this set.

Wait until the first time you take some clothing you thought was ruined for good, and run it through the "XXTra Sanitary" cycle with the power wash option and a bit of oxygen bleach. It is really an amazing machine for the price. - DR

To clarify my previous statement, when I stated I didn't notice difference in wash times I was referring to comparing it with my old TL. I definitely notice a difference in length times with this washer.

dross- will be trying your xxtra sanitary w/ power wash suggestion tomorrow because I have a lot of whites that did get very grey with my old set. thanks for all the help!!

steno1 said:
I have a lot of whites that did get very grey with my old set. thanks for all the help!!

Steno, I'd be patient with the whites, but I think you'll see a difference in a month's worth of washing. That's how it works out with me. Sometimes my friends will give me a really soiled pair of white socks to try and clean, and my 3200 will go waaayyy farther than a lot of other machines to get them sparkling, but I always tell my friends, "give me the socks for a month, then you'd really see."

As far as your question about the Nexxt dryer (I have the 3300), It makes a little less noise than the average clothes dryer, so basically, it sounds like a dryer running. You can hear the button fly jeans banging into the stainless steel drum in a muffled tone, pretty much like most others.

I find my dryer is exceptionally quick and thorough, however, and also very gentle when the delicate cycle is selected (this will cost more time).

One word of warning on the 170 degree wash, it might bunch up the elastic on tighty-whiteys. It depends on the brand of drawers. I now buy Jockeys, and they stand up great to high temps. I bought some JC Penny Stafford model under-drawers, and they do OK. The Hanes I had are pretty bunched up, but I'll keep using them until they wear out.

Still, you'll know they are clean!

"I've measured my machine on temp boost (K-type thermocouple probe), and it was just over 151F at the hottest."

dross, you've got entirely too much time on your hands. Have you got the radar detector out yet to test the RPM's of the drum? LOL!

dross, you've got entirely too much time on your hands.

I did this once, to verify that the machine was working properly, as I do with all the household appliances. We also regularly check our fridge temp, our oven temp, and look to make sure the cars have all their fluids. This doesn't take much time: in the case of the washer, only as much time as it took to insert the wire, and read it a couple of times, maybe 90 seconds altogether. - DR

dross --
Re: XXtra Sanitary cycle. I used this today for my king-size quilted mattress cover and although a very long wash time, the results were amazing!! I have not seen this VERY bulky item look like this since the day I got it. It was white, AND consistently clean and bright all over with absolutely no residue. I used regular Tide powder --not HE detergent-- and also a LITTLE bit of bleach. The Unit I have only allows for a small amount to be added. I am really going to save on detergent as well as bleach and cost efficiency with this machine. I am very happy so far. I am doing my king-size comforter now with two pillow covers. I never realized how bad my old machine worked until now.

I forgot to mention I did not use the Power wash option, just the XXtra sanitary. Great!!

Dross,
I have the Nexxt 3200 as well. You mentioned oxygen bleach. Are you referring to Oxi-Clean. What brand have you found beneficial and how much are you using? I know it has been mentioned about distilled white vinegar inplace of fabric softner. How much of that is used?
Thanks

Oxy-clean is one brand of oxygen bleach; there are several, or you can just use straight sodium percarbonate or sodium perborate (the active ingredient).
We use around 2 tablespoons of vinegar, sometimes with a small amount (less than a tablespoon) of softener mixed in. - DR

Do you put the vinegar and fabric softner in the fabric softner container or the bleach area. I saw someone recommend using the vinegar in the bleach tub since that goes in on the first rinse and the fabric softner goes in the last rinse.
How much oxygen bleach do you use. I noticed on the Oxi-Clean box they recommend an 1/8 of a cup for a small load. Would that be too much?
Thanks

I put it in the fabric softener area.
The amount of oxygen bleach depends on the brand (eg, Oxy-Clean has many fillers so is not very concentrated) and the load. I would start with around half the recommendation (that is, around 1 tablespoon), see if it works, and adjust from there.
BTW, the oxygen bleach goes in with the detergent, not in the bleach section. - DR

Dross,
Sorry to keep pestering you, but I did a google search for oxygen bleach and found its a big list. I noticed on a site some site it indicated until water temperature is above 130 degrees it is not as effective, have you found that to be true?
So I don't have to reinvent the wheel, what brand are you using? I am sure you have tried many.

until water temperature is above 130 degrees it is not as effective

That is true, but don't let "as effective" put you off! It works fine in lower tems as well, albeit slower. Anyway, your Bosch will reach this temp easily.

We use whatever is convenient. Most recently Oxy-Clean, since we got a big tub of it from Costco for a few dollars, but several people on this forum buy their sodium percarbonate from chemistrystore.com, where it is very cheap and concentrated. - DR

You know, In reading other Bosch websites I am realizing that so many of you do not have a window in your dryer. Many seem to say the only one with a window is the Platinum . The Nexxt 3200 "Inspiration" is one that I got last week and it has a window in it and an XXtra Sanitary option, but not the quick mix.

Correction to above: not, other websites, I meant to say other postings. sorry

The Nexxt 3200 "Inspiration" is one that I got last week and it has a window in it

Sure, rub it in! (Actually, while a window in the washer is useful for monitoring water/suds levels etc, I'm not sure I see the use for the one in the dryer other than sheer entertainment value.)
I wonder if your odd model will ever appear on the Bosch website?-) - DR

If I had a window in my dryer, I'd probably sit on my folding camp stool and watch that, too.

My brother has the HE4t with the limo glass, I'm like, "what the hell is that? How can you watch it work? Do the clothes need UV protection or something?"

He always shrugs.

I am searching for a new washer and have read the manual for the Bosch 3200. I have two questions I hope someone can answer. What is the rinse temperature on this machine? On the list of what it has it states 3 rinse temps which I assume are hot warm and cold, but there appears to be no way to change this manually on the different wash options. Also what is the temperature on special programs like the soak or active wear and is there a way to manually change this? It seems dumb that the soak does not go into a regular rinse as this eliminates soaking a load and the having it wash all on time delay. Has anyone seen what changes will be on the new Bosch line in July? Thanks for any info you can give me.

dross-
Well I agree that there isn't much to look at while going through a drying cycle, however, I really like the uniform look :) -- not trying to rub it in. BUT -- please let me know if you ever do see this on the Bosch website. I wonder if my appliance store, Orvilles, got special models, or if this is a test for their new lineup.

Hope I didn't miss out by waiting. I didn't know though of the new lineup when I placed my order anyway.

springer, the 3200 has always had limited cycle selection a compared to, say, the HE4t. You get more choice in the 6400, including an integrated presoak. - DR

dross,

I've been reading this whole thread here and I'm getting more and more excited by the minute about getting the Siemen's FL at Best Buy that you mentioned. It is the same washer as your's right? How are they two different brands but basically the same washer? Are Bosch and Siemen's really the same company? Also do you advise purchasing an extended warranty (if it's available) on this washer?

The Siemens 5200 is the same as the Bosch 3200, except for some trivial cosmetic differences (color screened on the plastic parts of the machine) and the names of some cycles ("sprintWash" instead of "Quick Mix" etc, though in some of their literature they slip up and use the Bosch names!). The manuals for both are available online, if you want to compare.

Are Bosch and Siemen's really the same company?

The actual company is BSH, which stands for "Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte", and in the US the two companies have the same physical address in Huntington Beach, CA; it is marginally possible that for purposes of warranty work you are dealing with two legally separate entities.

Extended warrantees are a form of gambling that favors the "house". On the other hand, one out-of-warranty service call will more than pay for the cost of the warranty. I guess it depends on what kind of peace of mind you want. We didn't buy one, and have not needed one, but I am marginally apprehensive because - unlike our older appliances - I don't feel at all capable of fixing this one myself should a problem arise. - DR

I emailed Bosch twice and still did not get a response.I'm very disapointed about Bosch the customer service not even having the Courtesy to get back to me.Buying a good product also depends on good customer service.If I would known that Bosches customer service is Ignoring emails from their customers I would not have bought the product.never the less I won't buy any anymore in the future.I also will gladly tell people I know about my Bosch experiance.

What question did you email them? Every question raised in this thread has been clearly answered quite some time ago. Maybe Bosch customer service simply didn't understand what you were asking.

Ignoring emails from their customers

Email is a terrible way to contact companies, especially outside of the world of electronics hardware and software. Telephone and regular mail are far more effective. - DR

I work for Bosch.

Can I try to help? What was your question?

I have a feeling that ingo_the_kraut is yet another identity of svrmgr. New member as of today.

He seems to have been posting under several aliases, such as Jenni_5volts and such.

The man definitely has a problem.

Spelling... I think it's SVCMGR.