Smart Washing Machines: Are They Really Smarter?

Once upon a time, a washing machine’s greatest innovation was the spin cycle. Fast forward to today, and we’re being offered smart washing machines promising AI driven wash cycles, remote control via apps, energy monitoring, and even voice assistant integration. But do these features truly make our lives easier, or are they just clever marketing spin?

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In this article, we’ll explore what smart washing machines actually offer, how they differ from conventional models, whether they’re worth the investment, and what to consider before upgrading. If you’ve been standing in Currys or scrolling through John Lewis’s website wondering, “Do I really need a washing machine that talks to Alexa?”, this one’s for you.

What Is a Smart Washing Machine?

A smart washing machine is, at its core, an internet connected appliance. These machines connect to your home WiFi network, enabling a range of features beyond traditional knobs and dials.

Depending on the brand and model, a smart washing machine might include:

• App control: Start, stop, pause, and monitor cycles from your smartphone.

• Cycle customisation: AI or sensor based suggestions for optimal wash settings.

• Energy monitoring: Real time feedback on water and electricity use.

• Maintenance alerts: Notifications when filters need cleaning or something goes wrong.

• Voice control: Integration with assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Samsung’s Bixby.

• Remote diagnostics: Send error logs directly to the manufacturer or technician for easier troubleshooting.

Some machines go even further, recommending detergent amounts, automatically ordering supplies when low, or syncing with smart dryers for a seamless laundry process.

The Rise of Connected Homes (and Laundry Rooms)

We’ve seen smart tech take over the home, from smart thermostats that learn your schedule to fridges that scan expiry dates. Laundry, perhaps less glamorous than lighting or entertainment systems, has caught up.

The growth is driven by both innovation and convenience culture. For busy households, time is precious, and anything that promises to remove guesswork, reduce energy bills, or simplify chores has immediate appeal.

But with great innovation comes great complexity. So the question remains: are smart washing machines actually helpful, or just more things to go wrong?

What’s Actually Useful and What’s a Gimmick?

Let’s be honest, not every smart feature is equally beneficial. Here's a breakdown of what truly adds value and what might be more flash than function:

Useful Features

1. Remote Start & Monitoring

Running late? Forgot to put the wash on? Remote control lets you start or delay cycles from anywhere. It’s surprisingly useful for those who work irregular hours or simply forget the laundry until it’s too late in the day.

2. Maintenance Alerts

Rather than waiting for a breakdown, some models can tell you when a filter needs attention or if a component is showing signs of wear. This can extend the machine’s lifespan and save costly repairs.

3. Energy and Water Tracking

Some machines track electricity and water usage, helping eco conscious households understand their footprint, and reduce utility bills in the long run.

4. Smart Load Detection

Many smart machines use sensors to assess the weight and fabric type of your laundry, automatically adjusting water and cycle length accordingly. This improves both cleaning performance and efficiency.

Less Impressive or Gimmicky Features

1. Voice Assistant Integration

While it sounds fancy to tell your washing machine to start via Alexa, it’s arguably quicker and more reliable to use your phone or, better yet, press the button.

2. Auto Detergent Ordering

Yes, running out of detergent is annoying. But auto ordering can be hit and miss, especially if your usage isn’t consistent. You might end up with a stockpile you didn’t really need.

3. App Bloat

Some apps are poorly designed or offer redundant functions. If it takes longer to set up a cycle via app than it does on the control panel, it’s not saving you time.

Are They Worth the Extra Cost?

Smart washing machines generally come with a higher price tag. Expect to pay anywhere from £100 to £400 more for a smart enabled model compared to its conventional equivalent. Is that worth it?

It Depends on Your Priorities

• Busy households: If your life is chaotic and being able to control your machine from work or the school run is a lifesaver, then yes, it could be a worthy upgrade.

• Eco conscious users: The efficiency improvements from smart sensors and energy feedback might justify the investment long term.

• Tech enthusiasts: If you’ve already invested in a smart home ecosystem, adding laundry to the mix might feel like a natural step.

However, if you’re the kind of person who always uses the same cycle or finds app settings fiddly, a traditional machine might be the better (and more affordable) fit.

Top Smart Washing Machines in the UK (2025 Picks)

If you're leaning toward upgrading, here are some standout models popular in British households right now:

1. Samsung Series 9 WW90T986DSX/S1

• 9kg capacity

• AI Wash & EcoBubble tech

• SmartThings app integration

• Price: ~£950

2. LG V9 F4V909BTS

• TurboWash 360° & AI DD

• WiFi enabled, LG ThinQ app

• Steam+ feature for allergens

• Price: ~£850

3. Bosch Serie 8 WAX32GH4GB

• Home Connect compatibility

• 10kg drum, AntiStain system

• Excellent quietness rating

• Price: ~£1,100

Each offers strong smart features alongside premium wash performance. But bear in mind: smart doesn’t always mean superior, read reviews, compare specs, and consider your actual usage.

Security, Privacy & Software Updates

It’s worth noting that smart appliances are also computers. And like all connected devices, they rely on software updates and secure connections. Without them, your washing machine might become a cyber risk or stop working optimally over time.

Before buying, check:

• How long the manufacturer promises software support.

• Whether you can operate basic functions without WiFi.

• How your data (e.g. wash habits, energy use) is collected or shared.

It’s also wise to keep firmware up to date, use strong WiFi passwords, and register your appliance for updates.

What About Sustainability?

There’s an environmental case both for and against smart appliances.

Pros:

• Smart load sensors can reduce water and energy waste.

• Maintenance alerts extend machine life.

• Some models use recycled materials and offer eco programs.

Cons:

• Increased complexity may lead to faster obsolescence.

• Software reliance means a machine might become “bricked” in future if updates cease.

• E waste is a growing concern in the smart appliance market.

That said, many major brands are improving their sustainability efforts. Look for models with an A rated energy efficiency label and long term parts availability.

Final Thoughts: Are They Really Smarter?

In short, yes, but only if you need them to be.

Smart washing machines offer real advantages for certain households, especially those craving more control, convenience, and efficiency. But they’re not a must have for everyone.

The smartest choice is one that suits your daily life, not just your WiFi network.

If you love tech, appreciate data driven insights, and already manage your lights, thermostat, and doorbell via app, then a smart washer fits right in. But if you’re someone who just wants to chuck in your clothes and get on with your day, a well made traditional model might serve you just as well.

Either way, the humble washing machine has come a long way, and whether smart or not, it remains a true workhorse of the modern home.

— Elizabeth Mooreland, Smart Home & Appliances | The Tech Advisor