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Smart home gadgets seem to be all the rage at the moment – whether it be in the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, or laundry, most home appliances have a smart version. Investing in an upgraded version of your typical home appliances can be a big decision and one that comes with many questions.
What is the point of smart gadgets? Are they worth the extra cost? How do you know if you’re purchasing a good appliance? In this article, we will discuss one smart alternative in particular… the smart washing machine.
From their purpose to the disadvantages, to what smart washing machines you should shop for if you’re looking to make the upgrade – we have all the answers!
What does a smart washing machine do?
There are many different variations of smart technology when it comes to smart washing machines, however, they all have the same purpose… to make laundry easier and more efficient. Whether you’re looking to be able to control your washing machine from your phone or looking for a cool feature like Auto Dosing to dispense the perfect amount of detergent and water every time, it’s time to consider investing in a smart washing machine.
2024’s TOP SMART WASHING MACHINES
- Samsung 12kg BubbleWash Front Load Smart Washer, $1,299, Samsung, (here’s why)
- Hisense 10kg Front Load Washer Series 7, $999, The Good Guys, (here’s why)
- 12kg Series 9 Front Load Washing Machine with Steam+, $1,499, LG, (here’s why)
The best smart washing machines to shop in Australia in 2024
01
Samsung 12kg BubbleWash Front Load Smart Washer (WW12TP04DSB)
from $1,299 at Samsung
Best for: Quick washing
The Samsung BubbleWash Front Load Smart Washer is perfect for households looking to cut down on laundry times without comprise. This incredible machine can thoroughly wash a 5kg load in just 39 minutes. If you’re looking to wash a larger load, you can also wash more in fewer loads with this washing machine… with a 12kg capacity, you can even include large items like a comforter. What’s special and smart about this washer is that it features AI control which allows you to personalise your washing experience by remembering your habits, suggesting cycles and displaying timely information. The washer can also connect to the SmartThings App which provides recommendations on cycles and help troubleshoot if you happen to run into any issues.
Key features:
- Innovative VRT+ technology helps reduce noise and vibration by up to 30% during washes.
- 20-year digital inverter warranty.
- BubbleWash and BubbleSoak settings.
- Steam cycle for hygienic cleaning.
- 5-star energy rating.
Size: 12kg – H850mm x W600mm x D650mm | Colour: Black
Reviews:
- 4.3-star rating out of 41 reviews at Samsung
- 4.4-star rating out of 29 reviews at Appliances Online
Available at:
- $1,299 (was $1,449) from Samsung
- $1,266 (was $1,449) from Appliances Online
02
Hisense 10kg Front Load Washer Series 7 (2023)
from $999 at The Good Guys
Best for: Those looking for a versatile washing machine
The Hisense 10kg Front Load Washer is perfect for households looking for something for all types of loads that is also stylish and trustworthy. This smart washing machine has a range of cool features that set it apart from the rest. The washer can store up to 24 loads of detergent and softener and when the time comes to wash, will choose the exact amount of each product depending on the weight of your load. Another smart feature is ConnectLife, an app that connects your phone to your washing machine using WiFi. This feature allows you to access smart features such as energy monitoring, smart wizard and smart link between an eligible Hisense Dryer.
Key features:
- Auto Dosing.
- Steam Function.
- 3-year warranty.
- 5-star energy rating.
Size: 10kg – H845mm x W595mm x D590mm | Colour: Charcoal Black
Reviews:
- 4.1-star rating out of 35 reviews at The Good Guys
- 4.8-star rating out of 4 reviews at Bing Lee
Available at:
- $999 from The Good Guys
- $999 from Bing Lee
03
Haier 10kg Front Load Washer
from $796 at The Good Guys
Best for: An affordable option
The Haier 10kg Front Load Washer has built-in UV technology to help sanitise and reduce bacteria, features 14 wash cycles including wool and refresh, as well as an eco wash option which reduces energy by 44 per cent and water use by more than 25L per load on a traditional cotton cycle. As for the smart features, this washer has a feature called +Garment which not only lets you add any forgotten items to your load, but will also light up your wash drum if you leave anything in the machine after your wash is complete. You can also start or stop your laundry cycles through your phone using the SmartHQ app, which also sends you alerts once your washing is done. Overall, this washing machine is aimed at providing effective, hygienic cleaning while being gentle on clothes and energy-efficient.
Size: 10kg – H850mm x W595mm x D688mm | Colour: Black, White
Key features:
- Smart dosing.
- +Garment feature.
- Smart Control.
- 2-year warranty.
- 4.5-star energy rating.
Reviews:
- 4.5-star rating out of 104 reviews on The Good Guys
- 4.3-star rating out of 24 reviews on Appliances Online
Available at:
- $796 from The Good Guys
- $842 from Appliances Online
04
12kg Series 9 Front Load Washing Machine with Steam+
from $1,499 at LG
Best for: Versatility
With built-in AI technology, the LG Series 9 Front Load Washing Machine, is smarter than most smart washing machines. AI Direct Drive “refers to ‘Artificial Intelligence’ technology that has been applied to control the machines washing motions via the Direct Drive Motor,” the website reads.
“By using AI technology and referencing a database of wash motions the machine assesses the load characteristics and selects the best option for a thorough clean with reduced clothing wear.” On top of this, the washer also features a range of cool cycles such as the allergy care cycle which uses steam to open up fibres and assist in reducing exposure to common household allergens. Like the other smart washing machines, you can also connect it to your phone to remotely start or monitor your wash progress, track wash cycle history, diagnose and troubleshoot issues and download additional wash cycles.
Size: 12kg – H850mm x W600mm x D660mm | Colour: Black, White
Key features:
- Intelligent Clothing Care with AI Technology.
- Remotely Start and Monitor Wash Progress with ThinQ.
- 2-year warranty.
- 5-star energy rating.
Review:
- 4.3-star rating out of 216 reviews on LG
- 4.6-star rating out of 360 reviews on The Good Guys
Available at:
- $1,499 from LG
- $1,499 from The Good Guys
What are the disadvantages of smart washing machines?
The main concern when it comes to smart washing machines is the higher initial cost. Because of the various additional features and cool functions that become available to you with the purchase of a smart washing machine, it’s not surprising that the cost is higher than more conventional models.
Another disadvantage associated with this upgrade is the learning curve. For those who are not as tech-savvy, it can take a little bit of time to learn the ropes – this can be a bit intimidating for some. Luckily, with technology such as a smart washing machine, a detailed user manual is often included to help you learn, and if worst comes to worst, google is always available!
Are smart washing machines worth it?
Smart washing machines are perfect for those looking to make laundry day a breeze. With all the additional features such as being able to control your washing remotely, monitoring your washing from your phone, having maintenance information at your fingertips, and in some cases, being able to link it with other appliances in your home, investing in a smart washing machine is a great step towards an upgraded home.
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