Starting from "3" is ok as long as the clothing is not very dirty. Most of the time, I start from "2" and stop it after 15 min. washing. Then turn to "3" to save time.
But the best, to me, is the dryer as it can dry my daughter's clothing in 60 min. No need to hang in somewhere. simple and easy.
for 6 and onward, the washing machine will spin softly, i.e. at lower speed. you will find the cloth would be quite wet comparing with starting from '2" or "3".
I hope this answers your question.