If your washing machine is over 5 years old, it’s definitely time to consider an upgrade. Over the years, washing machine technology has massively improved – so there’s even more things to think about before buying a washing machine. So, here’s some of the latest washing machine tech worth looking out for. Plus we answer some of your most popular washing machine questions.
What is the latest technology in washing machines?
Washing machines are always changing. Brands are experimenting with everything from different drum motions to smart apps that constantly monitor your machine for problems. And there are some new technologies already on the market that are real wash day game changers.
Pre-mix machines
If you have an older washing machine, you might find that some of your clothes come out smelling of detergent and some just come out… smelling. This is because your detergent hasn’t mixed in the drum properly.
The best washing machines now mix detergent with water and softener before it even enters the drum. By pre-mixing, a more concentrated wash solution is created which can get to work straightaway on cleaning your clothes.
Inverter motors
If you find yourself just guessing every time you put on a load, you could be using too much energy and even damaging your clothes. Inverter motors use sensors to determine how much energy is actually needed to keep clothes clean. And they also have a lot fewer moving parts, so they run way more efficiently too.
Better drum design
Ok, this one doesn’t sound riveting – but it’s one of the best ways you can look after your favourite clothes. Fabric can snag on the tiny holes in the drum of your washing machine, leading to loose threads or even holes in your clothes.
Designers and engineers have tackled this problem in newer machines by looking at the inside of the drum. By both developing smoother drums and much smaller drainage holes, the chances of snagging have been significantly reduced.
Fuzzy logic
Fuzzy logic might sound like something that applies to academic knitwear, it’s actually a type of artificial intelligence. But what is fuzzy logic in a washing machine? It’s a sensing mechanism that weighs and scans your washing, works out how dirty your washing is and how much water, energy and detergent will be needed.
Most-asked washing machine questions
Here are some of the most-searched-for washing machine questions. Get the answers to these and you’ll pretty much have a PhD in laundry…
What is the best energy rating for a washing machine?
Washing machines use an energy rating of A-G, with A being the best rating. The better the rating on your washing machine, the most energy efficient it is. So, if you’re looking to save on your monthly bills (and who isn’t?), look for a top-rated washing machine.
What is an eco-friendly washing machine?
The term “eco-friendly” in washing machines means that it uses less of everything to get your clothes clean. For example, it may be great at washing clothes at a lower temperature, like 20°C. This can use 70% less electricity than a wash at 60°C. Eco-friendly washing machines can also use less detergent and less water with every wash. By being more efficient, its overall environmental impact will be reduced.
What is a quick wash in a washing machine?
Whether you need a shirt cleaned fast for an interview or you just need to freshen up your clothes a little, quick wash is a brilliantly handy programme to have. And quick wash washing machine can take as little as 15 minutes to do its cycle – cutting down loads on the power and water consumption of a standard wash. And because it’s a shorter cycle with lower speeds, it means less wear and tear on your washing machine – helping it to last longer.
What is steam wash in a washing machine?
Hate ironing? The great thing about having steam washing machine is that it’ll massively reduce wrinkles and crinkles in your newly clean clothes. But a washing machine’s steam function isn’t just about cutting out chores. Because steam is extremely hygienic, it kills bacteria and removes allergens like pollen and dust mites too.
What is a quiet washing machine?
Running your washing machine at night is one way to save money – since energy prices are lower. But if you’ve got a noisy washing machine, you might keep the whole house up. That’s where quiet washing machines come in. According to inthewash.co.uk, the average washing machine runs at 77 decibels, with the best quiet washing machines outputting as little 66 decibels – about the same amount of noise as a normal conversation.
What is the best spin speed for a washing machine?
Most washing machines can spin at a range of speeds – measured in RPM. Generally speaking, the faster the spin the quicker the clothes will dry. This will mean less time on the washing line or in the tumble dryer. At the same time, picking the fastest setting isn’t always suitable – since it uses more energy, is louder, creates greater wear and tear on the machine and might even damage delicate fabrics. So pick the spin speed that matches your laundry labels.
Need some expert advice?
Looking for a new washing machine? Don’t get in a spin. Check out some great new washing machines below or have a chat with one of our laundry legends on ShopLive.
