Secrets of the Washing Machine: Tips and Tricks to Optimise Your Laundry Experience

Tucked away in the unassuming parts of our homes, the humble washing machine is an unsung hero of our everyday lives, keeping our clothes clean and fresh so we can work and play with confidence and comfort.

For most of us, washing machines play such a functional role that we often don’t see a need to “optimise” the laundry process. But unbeknownst to many, the choices we make – from the type of machine we pick at the showroom, down to our daily washing habits – have an effect on the convenience of the laundry process and even the amount of energy and water we use.

From tips to picking the right washing machines at the showroom, to good habits to adopt daily, here’s how you can make the most out of your washing machines.

Purchase Decisions

Take your time and research into picking the right washing machine – it is after all a significant, long-term investment expected to last for a while.

Decision 1 – Top or front load?

Top and front load washing machines come with their respective advantages. Consider these factors when deciding between the two:

● Accessibility – Top-loaders are more convenient, especially for those with back or knee injuries, since you don’t have to bend over to load and unload clothes.

● Gentleness of wash – Front-loading washing machines tend to be gentler on fabric – especially suitable for people wearing clothes with delicate material.

● Water consumption – Front-loading washing machines use less water and electricity than the average top-loading washing machine.

● Flexibility – Front-loading washing machines can be stacked with a dryer. When these two appliances are stacked, space is saved – especially useful for those living in smaller apartments.

● Price – When it comes to affordability, there are certainly many more price-sensitive top-loader washing machines to choose from.

Decision 2 – Looking out for high-tech

When making your shortlist, look out for washing machines with innovative technologies that can make your laundry experience more seamless and efficient.

For instance, the QuickDrive™ technology available on Samsung’s latest QuickDrive washing machines cut your washing time by up to 50%¹, powered by a unique fabric care drum equipped with a pulsator that forces detergent deep into your clothes for a thorough wash in less time. When we consider the lifespan of a washing machine, the amount of money you could potentially save in the long run becomes substantial.

Meanwhile, the AI Wash² features four built-in sensors which work together to determine the optimal amount of water, detergent and rinses your load based on soil level and weight of your clothes. Additionally, the AI Control personalises washing by remembering your laundry habits to display your most used cycles and settings. On top of freeing up your time for things that matter the most, these features extend the lifespan of your clothes by treating them with the right cycle.

Innovative technology isn’t limited to the washing machine – the integration of the new QuickDrive washers with the SmartThings app³ for instance, lets you schedule your wash from anywhere through your smartphone – making laundry less of a chore for those who dread it.

At Samsung, innovative excellence isn’t limited to flagship products. The EcoBubble™ washing machines feature nifty, innovative features as well. Enjoy efficient cleaning even at low temperatures⁴ with Samsung’s EcoBubble™ technology. EcoBubble turns detergent into bubbles that quickly penetrate fabric and easily remove dirt, helping you save energy and protects your laundry’s colour and texture⁵.

Smarter Washing Everyday

So now you’ve found the chosen one – the one machine that fits well into your laundry space, is equipped with energy-efficient technology, and is most importantly within your budget. But picking the right machine is only half the battle won – by practicing small habits daily, you can maximise the savings and benefits.

For starters, having a good understanding of the different types of wash cycles required for different needs could save you precious water.

Simple habits make a collective difference – always opt for the shortest possible cycle to get the job done; the less time garments spend being spun around in the wash, the longer they’ll last. Reserve longer washes for heavily soiled and bulky items, and shorter cycles for less soiled and delicate clothing.

If you have a busy day ahead and won’t be home for a while, Samsung’s SmartThings’ Laundry Planner can specify when you want the cycle to end – because we all know you shouldn’t leave laundry sitting in the washing machine after the cycle’s over, as it can grow mould or mildew.

Ultimately, for most of us, washing machines are one of the most essential and frequently used electronic appliances in our homes – and is likely to be one of the most long-lasting electronic appliances. By being deliberate in our decisions when it comes to laundry – from purchase to daily habits – we are not just able to enjoy significant cost savings, but also to do our part for the environment.

1 For a 5kg Cotton wash at 40°C, the Samsung QuickDrive WW8800M cuts washing time up to 50% when compared to the Samsung WW8500K washer.

2 Only available in models WW9800T, WW9500T, WW9300T.

3 Requires installation of SmartThings App on compatible Android or iOS device, with Android 6.0 and higher or iOS 10.0 and higher, and Wi-Fi® connectivity to the mobile device.

4 Tested in accordance with IEC 60456-2010 / 4kg Wash Load / Super Eco Wash cold (WF80F5E5U4W) vs. Cotton 40°C without Eco Bubble (WF0702WKU). Individual results may vary.

5 Based on the Performance Lab Test report by Springboard Engineering on EMPA strips, comparing a normal detergent solution and bubble technology without mechanical action.