The washing machine that takes care of your laundry and saves you hours of heavy toil is now an essential household item. Have you ever wondered how the idea behind this smart gadget originated?…Well, here’s a peek into its history…

The first ever washing machine was the wash board, dating 1797. Even manual wringers can be traced back to 1791, thanks to patented records!

The rotating drum was the next revolution, credited to James King, an American, who patented it in 1851. A hand powered gadget, but a great invention indeed! UK already had a surge in commercial washers. Americans focused on the home variant instead.

Soon steam power was used – a smart innovation indeed! In London, an exhibition in 1862 showcased the first such compound washing machine with rollers and dryers. A number of avatars then emerged, each better than the other. The fight to make the best washer can be seen amongst manufacturers even today!

Electric motors were reported in 1904, yet its actual inventor is not known. In 1928, US had sold 913,000 units and opened the first laundromat in Texas in 1934. Automatic variants entered the foray from Bendix Corporation in 1937. This one had to be fixed onto the floor to prevent ‘sliding’ during speedy rotation!

By 1947, General Electric had introduced automatic washing machines, including the top-loading and front loading variety. Then came the era of fully and semi-automatic machines, to suit the budgets and preferences of various customers. Also, mechanical speed control gave way to electronic control.

By the 1990’s microprocessors were used for ‘smart’ control for the washers. Today the market is flooded with washers and dryers of every size and capacity, using buzzing technology such as air-wash, intelligent sensors, steam wash, multiple cycles and even control via a mobile app!

We certainly have to admit that we have washing machines to thank for making the arduous task of cleaning laundry so simple and hassle-free!

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