What Can a Smart Washing Machine Do? Is It Worth Buying?
Washing machines with "smart" features can be quite expensive, which may lead you to carefully consider whether to choose a regular washing machine or invest in a "smart" one. In this guide, you'll find an overview of advanced washing machines' most useful tools, allowing you to decide if they meet your needs.
These days, nearly every other product or service claims to have some sort of "smart" or AI feature, leaving many to wonder if this is just a marketing gimmick. Smart features vary; some are genuinely useful while others are less essential. Below are the smart washing machine features that are actually valuable.
- Automatic Fabric and Color Detection
Automatic determination of fabric type and color is perhaps the most valuable feature of smart washing machines. Some models can recognize the type of laundry or clothes loaded into the drum, including their density and softness. Based on this information, the smart processor selects the optimal washing mode.
- Remote Control
If a washing machine can be controlled remotely, from your phone or tablet, it can significantly simplify your life. Whether you're at work or spending a day at the beach, remote control via the internet allows you to operate the washing machine from virtually anywhere in the world. For instance, Bosch and Siemens washing machines feature a remote control technology called Home Connect.
- Energy Savings and Sleep-Friendly Features
A smart washing machine can help you save on electricity costs without compromising your sleep. For example, the delayed wash cycle tool allows you to set a start time within the next 24 hours. You can schedule the wash for the evening when electricity rates are lower.
- Syncing with the Dryer
Some smart washers sync with the dryer, making drying more efficient. The washer communicates with the dryer about which clothes have been washed and how many, enabling the dryer to automatically adjust its settings accordingly.
- Adding Clothes Mid-Cycle
The option to add clothes during the washing process is another useful feature of smart washing machines. This allows you to add forgotten items to the drum after the wash has started, usually through an additional door.
- Snap & Wash Technology
Some washing machine models offer Snap & Wash technology ("Take a photo and wash"). Simply take a photo of the fabric of your laundry and upload it to the app on your smartphone or tablet, and the washing machine will select the appropriate washing program automatically.