7 Washing Machine Functions That Will Change Your Life

Washing machines have never been smarter, faster or quieter. All this innovation is making the business of washing clothes easier, fuss-free and less of a chore. Hooray for that. When it comes to the best washing machine features and functions that make life easier, these are the ones to look for:

1. Add Items Mid-Wash

So you’ve forgotten a sock or school uniform and there’s no time to lose? Adding an item mid-cycle to a top loader is easy, but has traditionally been a pain with front loaders. However, front load washing machine features have come a long way. Samsung’s AddWash feature lets you add items without pausing the cycle. You just open the Add Door (within the machine’s main door) to drop in the item. This function is also handy for clothes you want to add later in the cycle for a rinse or spin dry, or just airing out the empty drum between washes.

2. Not So Noisy

Manufacturers have been working hard to reduce noise levels in washing machines, so you can enjoy your next Netflix binge in peace. Vibration is a major cause of noise, particularly in front loaders with their faster spin speed. For a quieter wash, Haier has introduced a Direct Motion Motor with fewer moving parts, so there is less vibration; Bosch offers the EcoSilence™ Motor; and Samsung offers its Silent Dry function to reduce spin speed and noise.

3. Automatic Detergent Dispensing

Imagine never having to measure out (or guesstimate) detergent ever again. It’s a reality with auto dosing washing machines that automatically dispense the right amount of detergent and fabric softener for each load. You just fill the reservoir at regular intervals and the machine does the rest.

The Best Auto Dosing Washing Machines

• The stylish LG 9kg Front Load Washer delivers an optimal clean and no oversudsing of garments.

• As well as auto dosing, the Electrolux 10kg Front Load Washer offers an UltraMix feature to ensure detergent fully dissolves, protecting clothes against colour fading.

• With Miele 9kg-5kg Combo Washer Dryer you will get up to 26 washes before you need to top up the detergent reservoir.

4. Remote Controlled Washing

First there were smart fridges, now it’s smart washing machines. Higher end models offer Wi-Fi connectivity so you can start or pause a wash remotely, track the progress of a wash and be notified when it’s done – a handy way to make sure teenagers are keeping on top of their to-do list. The Samsung 9kg Front Load Washer features AI (Artificial Intelligence) technology and Wi-Fi connectivity, which let you control machine settings via an app on your smartphone. The app will even suggest the best wash cycles to save you time.

5. Super-Speedy Cycles

Get more done in less time with a quick wash feature that reduces washing and spinning into shorter cycles. Look for LG washing machines with Turbo Clean which replaces the second deep rinse with a jet spray to reduce wash time, or Samsung washers with QuickDrive™ technology that delivers a Super Speed cycle in 39 minutes. As a bonus, fast wash cycles also use less water and energy.

6. Steam Clean

Clothes not dirty enough to wash but need a refresh? Fisher & Paykel machines have a Steam Refresh feature to reduce odour, refresh and de-wrinkle – a great option for school uniforms or work shirts. You’ll save time not having to wash, and reduce your water and energy consumption too.

7. Germ-Busting Power

The COVID age has put hygiene front and centre, and washing machines are doing their bit too, with germ-busting wash cycles that use steam to deep clean and sanitise. Samsung’s Steam Cycle can remove up to 99.9% of bacteria and allergens due to the steam temperature and the way the steam penetrates fabric. Electrolux front load washers with Vapour Care option remove up to 99 per cent of staphylococcus aureus and klebsiella pneumonia bacteria in a 40°C cotton wash. How’s that for peace of mind?

Planning a laundry renovation? Visit us in-store or online for more advice on choosing the perfect washing machine for your new laundry. Plus check out our home renovation ideas page for more inspiration, tips and ideas.