New machine to do away with ironing
The steam washing machine blasts clothes with damp air for 20 minutes at the end of the cycle, removing creases and eliminating the need for ironing.
It also uses a unique dual spray system to blow hot steam on to clothes continuously for 40 minutes during the ordinary wash cycle.
Manufacturer LG Electronics said the machine “brings dry cleaning to your home”, leaving clothes crease-free and, in most cases, ready to wear.
The South Korean company said the new washing machine is likely to appeal to environmentally-conscious consumers as the use of steam cuts the consumption of power and water.
According to the company, the Steam Direct Drive Washing Machine uses 35% less water and 21% less electricity than conventional models.
The innovative machine operates without a belt to power the drum and so is much quieter than its rivals.
LG executive Don Kwack said the steam-clean treatment did not cause garments to shrink and so extended the life of clothing.
But, he said, in some cases, clothes may still need to be ironed.
“Ironing is still necessary but is made a lot easier. In some cases you don’t need any ironing at all,” he said.
One drawback, however, to the labour-saving machine is that its washing cycle takes longer than most conventional models. The washing and steaming process takes around two and a half hours to complete.
The machines, which come in black, cherry, rose, pearl white and aqua blue will go on sale in Britain and Ireland later in the summer.
LG general product manager for white goods Hugh Jung said: “LG is committed to delivering a wide variety of premium, high-quality and high-performance home digital appliances and the steam washer is the latest addition to our range of direct drive washing machines.
“With its revolutionary steam feature, this machine is a further example of why LG is an innovations leader, improving people’s lives by creating convenient products.”
