We’ve been living in the dark ages when it comes to washing…
While it may not seem like it, a washing machine plays such a big role in the success of your day. Whether it’s a Sunday spring clean or a mid-week wash, this machine holds the power to make or break your daily routines.
And apart from the washing machine properly dying, the only other worst-case scenario is forgetting about a load. A soggy, musty load that has been in your machine for even the slightest bit too long will mean you need to wash your clothes all over again.
However, appliance brands have heard you and developed the latest technology for washing machines to become fully integrated and functional with a modern lifestyle.
Introducing the smart washing machine.
What is a smart washing machine?
A smart washing machine is a washing machine that has additional functions and ‘smart’ features to upgrade the washing process. These features include Wi-Fi connectivity, an integrated app or automatic dosing. These modern capabilities mean you don’t have to wait around for the washing machine to finish, and a fresh, clean load is always guaranteed.
Smart washing machine features
It can be hard to decipher which features qualify as ‘smart’ and which are standard for a washing machine. Some smart features to keep an eye out for are:
- AI-enhanced technology: There has been a surge in AI integration, and washing machines have been included. This kind of technology helps to self-diagnose different washing needs and determine the appropriate cycle for your clothing. This is done by using soil level diagnosis and assessing weight and fabric type. Your smart washing machine can then decide the perfect water temperature, wash duration and spin speed.
- Wi-Fi and app connectivity: Washing machines can now send you alerts through apps about how long your cycle has left when you’re running out of detergent and even maintenance needs that have been auto-diagnosed.
- Auto-dosing: Many models of smart washing machines have an auto-dosing function, which determines how much detergent is needed for a load. This can be done by simply filling up the detergent dispenser until it’s full, and the washing machine will do the rest!
Best smart washing machines in Australia for 2024
Electrolux 10kg front load washer, $1099, The Good Guys
With Wi-Fi connectivity and a huge 10kg capacity for all your dirty clothing items, this smart washing machine has the best of both worlds. The smart sensors that are created from AI-integrated technology are able to assess your wash and get the perfect clean every time. Better yet, a ten-year warranty saves you from worrying about any mishaps, but with an Ecoinvertor 50% more powerful motor, that’s unlikely to happen.
Key features:
- Large 10kg capacity for handling big laundry loads.
- UltraMix technology ensures thorough detergent activation for better cleaning.
- Gentle care with Vapour Refresh to reduce wrinkles and odours without washing.
- Time Manager feature for customising wash cycles according to your schedule.
- High performance 1400 rpm spin cycle.
Available at:
- $1052 from Appliances Online
- $1099 from Bing Lee
Samsung 9kg Bespoke front load washer, $1299, The Good Guys
AI control is the major benefit of this Samsung smart washer. With five different sensors able to deter weight and type of wash, your wool wash and delicates will be washed in the perfect amount of detergent on the perfect spin cycle. Better yet, an AI-controlled setup means that your washing experience is personalised, and your habits can easily be remembered and replicated for ease and simplicity.
Key features:
- AI Wash has five types of sensors to detect the laundry’s weight and calculate the optimal amount of water and detergent.
- Your washer will automatically dispense the appropriate amount of detergent and softener for each load.
- Tempered glass door is made from strong and durable glass that is less likely to break or scratch compared to a plastic door.
- Super Speed cycle thoroughly washes up to a 5kg load in just 39 minutes with dynamic drum rotation and Speed Spray to help remove detergent quickly and reduce rinse time.
- Powerful AI Control personalises your washing experience by remembering your habits, suggesting cycles and displaying timely information.
Fisher & Paykel front loader washing machine, 10kg with steam care, $1249, Bing Lee
With 13 fabric care cycles on this washing machine, if that was it, then it’s still a great bargain! However, the added smart features of Wi-Fi connectivity and the adjoining SmartHQ app enable you to be notified through your phone when your load is complete, if your detergent drawer needs more liquid or even if any troubleshooting is required. What could be better than a washing machine that texts you when it’s done?
Key features:
- Reduce odours, refresh and de-wrinkle clothes without needing a full wash cycle, using Steam Refresh.
- Save time or maximise energy efficiency and reduce water usage with the Optimise Wash option.
- Quickly and easily add or remove any item from the machine during the wash cycle with the Add a Garment function.
- Wi-Fi enabled and works with the SmartHQ™ app for remote control and notifications.
Available at:
- $966 from Appliances Online
- $997 from The Good Guys
LG 9kg Series 9 front load washing machine, $1399, LG
Again, the smart features strike again with this washing machine from LG. An integrated app called LG ThinQ allows you to easily control your washing machine habits, and be notified when your washing is done or when a problem arises. Not only that, but intelligent fabric care enabled by AI let’s the washing machine do all the hard work for you!
Key features:
- Intelligent fabric care with AI DD®.
- Wash 5kg of clothes in just 39 minutes with Turbo Clean 360®.
- Reduce exposure to allergens with the Allergy Care Cycle with Steam+™.
- Smart control, smart life with LG ThinQ®.
- 10 Year Parts Warranty on the LG Inverter direct drive motor.
Available at:
- $1299 from The Good Guys
- $1299 from Bing Lee
Miele 9kg front load washing machine WWD164, $2299, Appliances Online
The final smart washing machine on the list is this one from Miele. While it is the most expensive choice so far, it does not lack in quality and amazing smart features. With a pre-ironing setting and gentle laundry care options, your clothing will look brand new. And, of course, a smart washing machine is nothing without a Wi-Fi connection and an app like Miele@home to help keep your loads clean, fresh and sparkling.
Key features:
- Gentle XL laundry care with the 9 kg honeycomb drum.
- The Pre-ironing Extra reduces creasing and saves up to 50 % time and effort.
- Miele@home – clever networking opens up new possibilities* MobileControl ensure complete flexibility using the Miele App.
- Exclusive CapDosing range for different textiles and stains.
- Smart laundry care with WiFiConnect.
Available at:
- $2299 from The Good Guys
How much does a smart washing machine cost?
Smart washing machines tend to be more expensive than normal washing machines because of all the available added features and integrations. A smart washing machine can cost between $1000 and $3000 depending on brand, quality, and warranty guarantees.
Why would I want a smart washer?
A smart washer is very helpful if you lead a busy lifestyle and find it hard to fit washing into your schedule. Having smart features like notifying you when a load is done or recommending cycles based on your washing habits can save you time and effort in the long run.
Are front-loader or top-loader washing machines better?
No style of washing machine is better at washing clothes. However, there are other benefits and disadvantages. While a top loader is definitely more affordable, it is not as energy-efficient or sustainable as a front loader.
Better yet, a smart washing machine in a top or front loader style is now considered to be the best option due to it’s advanced technology and smart features.
Looking to save money on your laundry makeover? Check out our coupon codes for The Good Guys, Adairs and more.
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