Laundry’s New Cycle
Laundry day is quickly becoming less of a hassle with new technologies being announced nearly every month. LCD touch screens, anti-vibration systems and 33 cycle settings are sure to lighten your next load
Next time household chores are being divvied up, you may want to make a quick claim on laundry – especially if you’re in the market for a new washer or dryer.
Not to be outdone by the stream of “new and improved” fabric products that go in your machines, appliance makers are pushing ahead with enticing innovations. After slower sales during the recession, “Companies are positioning themselves for the economic recovery,” says Michael Deneen, senior industry analyst at Cleveland-based Freedonia Group.
Manufacturers have used the lull in business to focus on improved technology and design, Deneen adds.
Consumers now expect better looking washers and dryers, too, since the machines have moved into the living areas of the homes, near bedrooms, family rooms and kitchens.
“Like a well-appointed itch, up-to-date laundry appliances can help distance a home from the competition,” says Seattle-based home stager Chris Longfelder Doucet.
Whether your machines are wearing after years of use, or whether a move or renovation has you on the lookout, here’s the latest spin on washers and dryers:
Eye Candy
Does red pep you up? Perhaps you’d favor a soothing aqua when tackling the family’s loads? Many models offer a wide palette of color finishes, making these necessities feel like a fashion splurge.
The Electrolux Perfect Steam washer and dryer [MSRP: $3,598 for both] is a colorful case in point, coming in Silver Sands, Red Hot Red, Turquoise Sky and Mediterranean Blue.
Easy Fixes
What’s more annoying than taking a vacation day to wait for a repairman? Some manufacturers, like Kenmore and LG, are embedding technology in their machines that may let you bypass such hassles.
For example, the Kenmore Elite models [priced from$799 to $1,499] offer the “Connect” feature. Should you suspect your machine is malfunctioning, dial a toll free number and let a company representative review data transmitted from your machine via your phone. Much of the time, says the company, a minor adjustment is identified and can be performed by the consumer.
Steamed Clean
Water, detergent, boosters, bleach – what more could you need to get laundry deep down clean? Steam is the missing ingredient that manufacturers have begun to add, saying it can remove allergens and germs, stains, and allow items like stuffed animals to be cleaned without soap or water. Dryers also are equipped with steam to eliminate static and wrinkles.
The LG 4.2-cubic-foot Steam Washer [MSRP $999]is a 2011 model that LG is introducing in response to consumer demand for steam technology at lower price points.
Do Not Disturb
While consumers have welcomed their machines into the home, they don't want to be distracted when those appliances are doing their work.
Bosch Vision washers and dryers [MSRP $899 to $1,649] feature an anti-vibration system so every cycle change isn’t announced.
Set and Forget
How many times have you washed a load twice -- not because you’re trying to get them cleaner, but because you’ve forgotten to place them in the dryer promptly.
General Electric’s new Profile Steam Washer [$1,399 to $1,499] was designed to avoid this problem, since it removes moisture overnight so clothes are virtually ready-to-wear in the morning.
Fabric Fine Points
Just as some merely cook and some create great cuisine, there are some world-class laundry enthusiasts who use their machines to precisely clean everything from shower curtains to baby blankets.
The Whirlpool Vantage washer and dryer [$4,000 for the pair], has 33 different settings, which can be selected using an LCD touch screen, was recently introduced to appeal to the serious laundry buff.
Ecologically Correct
In response to consumer interest in energy efficiency, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy recently launched a Web site, TopTenUSA.org, listing the 10 most efficient appliances in various categories.
“We recommend seeking out a clothes washer with ‘Energy Star’ certification as a minimum,” says Amanda Lowenberger of the ACEEE. While dryers aren’t Energy Star rated, an efficient washer influences drying efficiency because how well it spins out water reduces drying, Lowenberger says.
Some washers, like the top rated by the ACEEE, perform at higher standards then required for Energy Star labeling. While the website doesn’t list dryers, Lowenberger says they plan to add that category soon.
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