Why do you need a steam function in a washing machine?

How does a steam washing machine work?

It's simple: with this treatment, things are not immersed in water, but are saturated with steam. The effect is achieved thanks to the operation of a heater, which easily transforms water into high-temperature steam that can penetrate deep into the fibers of the fabric. What is he doing there? Elementary: fights most dangerous bacteria, fungi and unpleasant odors. Perhaps this technology will be a godsend for treating things for allergy sufferers, small children, or simply people with sensitive skin. Another significant advantage is that steam treatment allows you to eliminate detergents and save on water.

Advantages and disadvantages

To understand whether you need a washing machine that has a steam washing function, you should carefully study all its advantages and disadvantages, then draw a conclusion for yourself, understanding what it gives. The advantages include the following:

• Regardless of the degree of soiling, pre-washing is not required. Steam is able to cope with them on its own.
• Safety for allergy sufferers. This option is also popular among mothers who do not want to wash baby clothes with added household chemicals.
• Economical. When using the program, water is used half as much as during normal washing. This also applies to electricity. Do I need to add washing powder? No, it is not required either, so the efficiency of such a machine increases several times.
• Things are disinfected most thoroughly. This means that all germs, fungi and infections are completely destroyed.
• Get rid of even the most persistent unpleasant odors.
• When treated with steam, clothes do not wrinkle and creases do not form. Ironing after this is not particularly required.
• You can load any type of fabric into the drum without worrying about its condition. Steam is gentle on delicate items, including synthetics, wool or silk.
• The operation of the machine when processing things with steam is almost silent.

This is interesting: at what temperature should I wash black clothes?

The disadvantages are that the cost of a washing machine with this technology is quite high. It ranges from 30 to 80 thousand rubles. In addition, the choice of models with this function is not large. Few manufacturers integrate a steam generator into their equipment.

Steam treatment: pros and cons

A machine with a steam cycle (according to the manufacturers) has a lot of advantages compared to models without this clever solution. So, the pros:

• Easy care of things. You can keep your things in order without washing them - refresh them with steam! After “steaming”, clothes dry quickly even in room conditions. You can also move the iron away and hide the ironing board: the steam will smooth out even deep wrinkles. Of course, you can’t do without ironing at all, especially in the case of office clothes, but you won’t have to spend a lot of effort. And one more “yes” in favor of steam - it is not terrible for things that are completely prohibited from washing. Consider that you will have your own mini-dry cleaning at home, only without chemicals.

• Saving resources. You don't even need a calculator to calculate how much water and household chemicals you can save by using the steam capabilities of SMA. To obtain a steam cloud, you need much less water than for a full wash and rinse cycle. And electricity is spent almost 2 times less than heating water during a classic wash.
• Do you feel sad about shopping for silk and wool items because of problems with care? Forgetting to take your down jacket to the dry cleaner? Can’t you even get your hands on cotton curtains? Are you afraid to trust the machine with delicate lace bras? The designers assure that any delicate fabrics and items can be safely treated with steam.
• Everything for children. As we have already said, steam rids fabrics of allergens and bacteria. But the developers also promise that steam flows perfectly disinfect the washing drum itself.
• Quiet operation. This has little connection with the function under consideration. But the pattern is that steam generation is often present in expensive SMAs, and such machines are usually equipped with a direct drive motor, which operates several times quieter than a conventional brushed motor. In addition, direct drive means reduced vibrations and a low likelihood of wear of many parts.

Important! The presence of a direct drive does not mean the presence of a steam generator - check this when purchasing.

• 1+1. There are models that can combine a washing cycle with steaming. The point is that under the influence of steam, the tension of the fibers decreases, so the detergent components penetrate them better, which means stains are removed better. And upon completion of washing, control disinfection occurs with the same steam.

Our task is not to advertise steam generators in SMA, but to talk about their real benefits (or lack thereof). Therefore, the disadvantages are not a secret at all:

• The steam generator in the SMA design is a relative innovation, which not every brand has. Offers are mainly from such giants of household appliances as LG, Electrolux, AEG, Hotpoint-Ariston, etc.

• The cost is biting. Budget models rarely cost less than 30,000 rubles, and in the middle price segment prices start from 45,000–50,000 rubles. As a result, either you buy a cheap machine that washes with steam, or an excellent middle-class SMA without this function - the choice is yours.
• You can't refuse to do laundry. Steam treatment cannot fully replace washing, especially when it comes to serious stains and dirt. Refresh things - please, but wash them - this is unlikely. Although advertising campaigns of companies such as Whirlpool promise steam treatment even for old stains, here it is worth focusing on user reviews.

On a note! When purchasing, check whether the machine can WASH with steam or REFRESH. These are two types of treatment with different intensity, while SMA can cost the same.

Best models

Electrolux EWW51476WD

This model is capable of washing up to 7 kg of laundry at a time and drying up to 4 kg of wet clothes. EWW51476WD has a standard depth of 55.5 cm and a number of main advantages, which include:

1. Maximum spin speed – 1400 rpm.
2. The model is very quiet: the volume at maximum speed does not exceed 49 dB.
3. The machine is equipped with three drying positions for cotton items and several modes for wool and synthetic items.

There is also a steam treatment mode that prevents the formation of wrinkles on clothes and is also able to effectively sterilize laundry. The Electrolux washing machine is quite compact in size and will easily fit into any interior of a modern home.

SAMSUNG WW70K62E00SDLP

The model has a convenient front loading and an innovative electronic system that increases comfort and ease of use. There is an intuitive display on the device body, which displays basic information.

The washing machine has an economy. power consumption and belongs to class A. The maximum load on the stainless drum is 7 kg. SAMSUNG WW70K62E00SDLP can adjust the spin speed, the maximum drum rotation is 1200 rpm.

The washing machine menu includes 15 automatic washing modes, which allows you to remove dirt from the surface of laundry most effectively, including using steam for these purposes.

We invite you to familiarize yourself with the range of washing machines and dryers from Samsung.

LG FH4A8TDS4

We can say with complete confidence that the developers of LG washing units truly know their business. FH4A8TDS4 has a front loading mode, and the drum capacity is designed for 8 kg. You can also appreciate the impressive range of available options, including a True Steam steam cleaning mode.

Thanks to the available settings, the drum can be set to several movement algorithms, which will ensure high-quality and gentle washing. If the drum is less than half loaded, it is advisable to use the TurboWash mode, which will save water consumption.

This washing machine will not only fit perfectly into the interior of your home, but will also decorate it. It has a wide range of settings and different modes, quite compact dimensions and a truly attractive appearance.

A large front door is needed for comfortable loading of laundry, and a modern LCD display, which is located on the front of the machine, will allow you to set the necessary settings and monitor the washing process.

SAMSUNG WW65K42E08W

This model also features a front loading mode. This is an excellent option for a large family. WW65K42E08W will fit in any kitchen or bathroom thanks to its compact size. The drum is made of high-quality stainless steel and can hold up to 6.5 kg of laundry. It rotates at a maximum speed of 1200 rpm.

The machine is equipped with 12 automatic programs, thanks to which the washing process becomes more comfortable. There are also steam cleaning modes for delicates and children's items.

The machine controls the volume of foam that is formed during the washing process. All information about the drum rotation speed, the selected mode, washing duration, and so on is displayed on the LCD display.

If you can’t decide between two Korean brands, then read our article, in which we analyze in detail which washing machine is better than LG or Samsung.

AEG L 99691 HWD

This model is very popular among consumers. The washing machine has a drying mode for washed items and a number of other advantages that set it apart from other competitors:

• loading volume – 9 kg;
• spin speed at maximum speed – 1600;
• volume of laundry for drying – 6 kg;
• washing particularly delicate items.

L 99691 HWD is able to wash your laundry especially carefully, thanks to many special modes. There are separate programs for woolen items, cotton, silk, children's and so on. A smart washer-dryer controls foaming and monitors drum imbalances.

Bosch WLT24460O

This model can be called more advanced and innovative in its category. There are really many washing modes available, including steam cleaning. There are programs for washing down jackets, baby clothes, synthetics, cotton, silk and so on.

You can also choose a quick wash, which lasts 15 minutes. This mode allows you to save water and electricity consumption.

LG or Bosch? In our next article we compare these two manufacturers and draw conclusions which washing machine is better than LG or Bosch.

Rating of washing machines with steam: top 5

The review included the best SMA models with steam supply, with the highest customer rating from 4 to 5 points on a 5-point scale from the Yandex.Market version. Contrary to the belief that such machines are expensive, we have selected 4 of the most budget-friendly front-loading SMAs and 1 vertical machine from the middle price segment. Choose any option based on your budget.

Go!

Important! Models with drying were obviously not included in the rating; the emphasis was only on steam.

Samsung WW65K42E00S - 6.5 kg and childproof

Users of the Yandex.Market marketplace rated this silver model at 4.5 points, noting the good quality of washing and low noise level. Of course, the Korean development, even at its budget cost, is equipped with the latest technology. The heart of the model is a modern inverter motor, which, with the help of three powerful magnets, operates quietly and without strong vibrations, and most importantly, is designed for long-lasting operation. The proprietary EcoBubble generator provides a “fashionable” type of laundry treatment - bubble washing to combat the oldest stains. This model provides for “steam washing” and not “refreshing”, which is why the Samsung WW65K42E00S machine took the first step in our rating. By the way, thanks to AddWash technology and a small additional hole, the user will always have time to add forgotten items into the drum, even after the wash has started.

The user is notified of breakdowns by the Smart Check troubleshooting technology, and the drum cleanliness is monitored by the Drum Clean technology eco-function.

Other options:

• Loading volume: up to 6.5 kg.
• Control type: electronic with display.
• Dimensions (WxDxH): 60x45x85 cm.
• Washing/spin energy efficiency classes: A/A/B.
• Water consumption per cycle: 39 liters.
• Spin speed: up to 1200 rpm.
• Spin functions: speed selection, cancel.
• Types of safety: partial protection against leakage, child lock, control of foam formation and drum imbalance.
• Number of programs: 12 pieces, including Delicate, Economy, Children's, Fast, etc.
• Other features: setting the end time of washing, selecting washing t°, notification of the end of the program.
• Tank: plastic.
• Washing/spin noise: 54/73 dB.
• Warranty: 1 year from the manufacturer.

After analyzing the reviews for this washing machine, we identified a number of undoubted advantages:

• There are short modes.
• The small door makes it convenient to ventilate the drum.
• Doesn't make noise or jump.
• Most buyers noted the successful and stylish design.
• Easy to install and connect.
• Alerts are displayed to let you know when you need to wash the drum or clean the filter.
• The drum does not snag on delicate items.

And the cons:

• Complaints about a poorly designed seal in which water accumulates - requiring special care. Delicate elastic can also deteriorate prematurely. Small things - socks, stockings - can get stuck in the folds.
• Cyclic supply of water to the powder receiver, due to which it is not completely washed off.

Whirlpool FWSG 61053 W - with “refreshment”

This spacious family washing machine from an American concern (Slovenian assembly) also scored 4.5 points. Unlike Samsung, Whirlpools provide “steam refreshment”, but perhaps this treatment will be enough for you.

In terms of parameters, considering the price from 14,320 rubles, there is nothing particularly surprising - it’s just a good workhorse with sufficient functionality:

• Loading volume: up to 6 kg.
• Control type: electronic with display.
• Dimensions (WxDxH): 60x43x84 cm.
• Washing/spin energy efficiency classes: A++/A/C.
• Water consumption per cycle: 38–49 liters.
• Spin speed: up to 1000 rpm.
• Spin functions: speed selection, cancel.
• Types of safety: protection against leakage, child lock, control of foam formation and drum imbalance.
• Number of programs: 12 pieces. Among them: Delicate, Economical, Children's, Jeans, Down items, etc.
• Other features: delayed start, choice of washing temperature, FreshCare+ technology.
• Tank: plastic.
• Warranty: 1 year from the manufacturer.

Popular models and reviews of them

Not all manufacturers have an automatic steam washing machine. Only the largest ones, headed by Lg, can boast of such equipment, since they have the widest range. Companies with this technology also include Bosch, Electrolux, Samsung, Beko, and Ariston.

Let's consider the most popular models - free-standing, vertical, front-loading.

LG F12U1HBS4

Characteristics

Distinctive features:

• Can be adjusted from a distance using a smartphone.
• Direct drive drum (reduces electricity consumption, reduces noise levels, high wear resistance).
• Additional modes (“refresh”, stain removal, anti-allergenic wash, removal of pet hair, night mode).
• The embossed surface of the drum ensures softness of fabrics.
• A sound signal is provided upon completion of work.

On YandexMarket you will find comprehensive information about SMA.

Hotpoint-Ariston RSD 8229 ST K

Characteristics

Distinctive features:

• More programs.
• Special modes (injection, for silk items).
• Large capacity.

User opinions and other details are waiting for you on YandexMarket.

Samsung WW80K52E61W

Characteristics

Distinctive features:

• Bubble wash. Thanks to Eco Bubble technology, before entering the drum, the powder dissolves, enters inside in the form of foam, and is evenly distributed throughout the fibers of the fabric, which leads to more effective removal of contaminants.
• Special capabilities of the drum (self-cleaning, removing difficult stains without additional detergent costs).
• Economical (highest energy efficiency class, consumption only 48 liters).

See details on YandexMarket.

Electrolux EWT 1567 VIW

Characteristics

Peculiarities:

• Vertical loading.
• Narrow-sized model (only 40 cm).
• Highest efficiency classes (including spin).
• Special programs (prevention of creasing, starching of things).
• Quiet in operation (47 dB).

See more details on YandexMarket.

AEG L 88560 TL

Steam takes care of fabrics

Washing a down jacket with steam in a washing machine is very convenient. Otherwise, it is difficult to wash a down jacket. You need to constantly go to the dry cleaner. Only the “steam wash” function will help. A down jacket is incredibly easy to clean at home if you have a washing machine like this. Even a favorite item will turn into a hated one when washing is a problem. A down jacket requires special care, and often it is better not to complicate your life, wash it with steam, but take your fur coat to the dry cleaner.

Washing baby clothes, sterilizing a newborn's clothes, removing dirt from white clothes, removing stubborn stains and more - this becomes a simple task if the machine has a steam treatment program. There is no way to dry clean diapers; you have to deal with it yourself. Boiling is the fastest way to clean things. The method gives good results. However, boiling will negatively affect the color.

Naturally, the function is not available in washing machines. Usually the water is heated to a maximum of 90 degrees. But steam will not destroy the dye, because it promotes swelling of the threads and due to this can eliminate dirt. When boiled, water molecules “knock out” foreign particles and dye from the threads. Steam is definitely less destructive.

Another advantage: steam allows you to wash without powder, only with Calgon or an analogue. Of course, from the point of view of benefits and savings, steam is inferior to water in terms of energy consumption, but this disadvantage is compensated for by the powder.