Evolution of the Appliance: The Story of the Washing Machine and Dryer

New technology is finding its way into our Washers and Dryers!

Today’s appliances are not the same as those of your parents. With smart technology improving and making everything smarter, from your TV to your thermostat, appliances are no different. Appliances, such as your washing machine, can be controlled from your phone, and your laundry will come out cleaner and dry faster by using smart technology. Have commercial appliances, normally sold to laundromats and professional dry cleaners, found their way into the average household? In this series of articles, we will explore where each of the following appliances is with regard to features, style, and price:

•         Garbage Disposals
•         Dishwashers
•         Refrigerators/Freezers
•         Washing Machines/Dryers
•         Stoves and Ovens

In this article, we are talking about Washing Machines and Dryers. They are among the most  used appliances in our homes. However, people often overlook their importance until they need a favorite shirt washed or dried in time for a day out. The significance in our life has caused them to advance more quickly than you can imagine. Several changes have occurred over the past 5-10 years when comparing a top-of-the-line washing machine to one from 2018. This article will explore how washing machines and dryers have evolved through the years.

History

In 1874, William Blackstone created the first washing machine intended for home use as a birthday present for his wife. The first washing machines were hand operated and laundry was hung out to dry. Over time, washing machines and dryers evolved into the electric version we know today and became common household appliances eventually incorporating smart technology. Today we see washing machines and dryers with smart features that cannot compare to the early ones.

Technology and Washing Machines

In every industry, the ultimate goal of technology is to streamline everyday life. Since we use our  appliances daily, we are more likely to feel these technological advances. Washing machines and dryers are incredibly important to our daily lives. So, just like other appliances, we get excited when we see them become more advanced and smarter.

The development of washing machines and dryers has kept pace with the development of technology. As a result, today’s models are able to handle nearly every task a household could ask of them. This improvement in their design and functionality makes washing and drying clothes quicker and simpler. In what follows, we elaborate more on the current dryer and washing machine technologies.

Features of the Latest Washing Machines and Dryers

Numerous features set washing machines and dryers apart from the early models. These features, making them smart, have kept up with other appliances.

•         Wi-Fi connectivity is the first feature of smart washing machines and dryers. You can start, stop, and monitor the washing cycle using your phone. A great feature that this connection to your phone provides is Wrinkle Care. When you are not home to unload the washing machine or dryer, you can use this option to manage the appliance, so it tumbles for a few hours to prevent your clothes from wrinkling until you get home.

    Artificial intelligence (AI) is a common feature of modern washing machines and dryers. Washing machines with AI can weigh your laundry and determine how much water and detergent is needed based on the load.

•         Some dryers include sensors that automatically adjust drying time and temperature to avoid your clothes shrinking, remaining damp, or getting damaged.
•         Soil Sensor is an element included in some washing machines. This feature measures your laundry’s dirt and adds extra time to your washing cycle if necessary.
•         Some washing machines and dryers include a function called Smart Care. This comes in handy if your appliance encounters a problem. Using a phone app, you can identify problems and Smart Care offers troubleshooting advice.

   
When using a smart washing machine or dryer, you will also receive alerts on your phone when you are low on detergent, need repairs, or the appliance requires routine maintenance.

•         One of the recent developments in washing machines is the Steam Water feature. This function cleans and sanitizes clothing by combining steam and water. It works by raising the temperature in the washing machine and turning the water into steam. It helps to kill bacteria and reduces wrinkles.

Price

If you exclude the newest models on the market, the typical cost of a smart washing machine is not significantly more than that of a non-smart one. A smart washing machine and dryer will likely cost you between $500 and $4,000, depending on the brand, model, and smart features. The cost of a dryer can also vary depending on whether you want a gas or an electric connection. Electric dryers consume a lot of electricity when you use them regularly, investing in an energy efficient dryer will save you money over the life of the appliance.

Future

As manufacturers develop new versions of washing machines and dryers, we can expect to see more improvements and upgrades, including user-friendly features, greater energy efficiency, new designs, plus much more. The industry is always looking at ways to make a washing machine that consumes less water to help the environment. They have already successfully created one that uses nylon beads for washing that consumes 90% less water. However, these washers are not yet available for household use.  I hope to see smart washing machines with water saving features in every house in the near future.