Black Beauty: Why Dark Appliances Are The New Must-Have In Laundries

First it was black fridges, ovens and cooktops turning heads in the kitchen, and now black washing machines and dryers are stealing the spotlight in laundries. Sleek, suave and oh-so sophisticated, dark finishes are the latest trend in laundry appliances and could be just what you need to spice up your space. Here’s everything you need to know to nail the look.

Why Should I Consider Dark Laundry Appliances?

If you are looking for a bold laundry vibe, this is it. According to a recent survey by Houzz, black appliances are growing in popularity, second only to stainless steel as home renovators’ finish/colour of choice. And appliance manufacturers are sitting up and taking notice, releasing more washers and dryers in deeper hues.

“There has been a recognised trend over the last decade, with consumers moving away from traditional white finishes and drawing from different colour palettes to create a different, minimalist aesthetic,” confirms Shannon Tweedie, Home Appliances Marketing Manager at LG Electronics Australia.

The black steel finish is only part of the attraction with the LG WashTower 12kg-9kg Combo Washer Dryer, an innovative all-in-one design that is big on function, as well as form. The huge 12kg capacity washer means you save time by washing fewer loads (with more clothes) and you save on running costs with the 4.5 star WELS water rating and 9 star energy rating.

What Are The Colour Options With Dark Laundry Appliances?

Deep greys to black and dark stainless steel are all options in the brave new world of dark laundry appliances. Chrome trims and tinted glass often feature in these sleek designs, which span all types of washer and dryer. For a uniform look, it’s best to match your washer and dryer shade.

Top loader devotees can get in on the act with the Solt 9kg Front Load Washer in black with 9 washing programs, which let you tailor each load for optimum cleaning, and a 4 star WELS water rating. Or the stainless steel LG 9kg Top Load Washer with plenty of capacity for a family of five or more. Prefer a front loader? Whether stacked or positioned side by side, the black LG 9kg Front Load Washer and the LG 9kg Heat Pump Dryer make a striking pair. And if you cannot decide between a black or grey finish, no problem. The Samsung 9kg Bespoke Front Load Washer is a beautifully sleek black. Providing an ideal capacity for families of three to four, this washer has 22 types of washing programs, and advanced wash options that target stubborn stains and kills more than 99.99% of bacteria.

“Black can revive the look of a tired laundry while also complementing most designs because of its ability to contrast well with colours and other shades of white and grey.”

What Spaces Suit Dark Laundry Appliances?

While black appliances suit a modern aesthetic, there are no hard and fast rules. “Consumers are getting more and more creative with their design choices and spaces,” says Shannon Tweedie. “Once, laundries were hidden rooms, behind closed doors. Now we are seeing more and more people having fun with these spaces, and using colours and beautiful textures to really bring the area to life.” 

A dark washer and dryer can also deliver an instant makeover, so think about that when it comes time to upgrade your appliances. “Black can revive the look of a tired laundry while also complementing almost any design because of its ability to contrast well with colours and other shades of white and grey,” says Shannon Tweedie.

What Are The Design Rules With Dark Laundry Appliances?

Shannon Tweedie’s top tip is to look for darker-coloured appliances if you want a strong contrast – a black appliance in an otherwise light coloured room – or if you want to go tone-on-tone with dark wood cabinetry and black appliances. The second option matches adjoining surfaces in colour and texture to create a look that is cohesive, polished and definitely high-end.

How Do I Care For Dark Laundry Appliances?

There are no special requirements when it comes to cleaning dark appliances. Simply wipe down with a damp cloth to keep them looking their best. For stainless-steel surfaces, manufacturers recommend a soft, dry microfibre cloth. “For difficult messes, use a small amount of warm soapy water and wipe in the direction of the metal’s grain,” advises Shannon Tweedie. 

What Else Do I Need To Consider?

Good looks are one thing but when it comes to washing machines and dryers, functionality comes to the fore. Before upgrading, make sure your new appliance has all the smart features you need to make life easier, and that it delivers on energy efficiency so you save on running costs.

Visit us in-store or online for more advice on choosing the perfect appliances for your laundry. If you are planning a new laundry or renovation and looking for inspiration, check out laundry design ideas, and discover top tips for creating a stylish European laundry if you are working with a small space.