A:AnswerThat depends entirely on the fabric you are washing. When I have something that requires bleach, I use hot water in the cycle, and then add an extra rinse cycle.
A:AnswerI use the bedding cycle, and so far no problems. In fact, I washed a comforter and a blanket in the same load today, and everything worked fine.
A:AnswerYes. What you are hearing is the drum bearing under load on only one of its sides instead of handling the load evenly across its entirety. Any washing machine will do this.
A:AnswerNo, I don't know exactly what material it is but it seems be be very strong. It also looks like if you're rough with it it could scratch. I cover things I have like this with a layer of plastic wrap like Saran Wrap to protect.