Appliance Innovations: How auto dosing makes laundry day easier and more efficient

If you find measuring detergent a hassle or your laundry results less than satisfactory, you might want to look out for an auto dosing function in your next washing machine. In this article, we'll take a look at this laundry day labour-saver, as well as some of the major brands that incorporate auto dosing into their washing machines.

Auto dosing is automatic dispensing of laundry detergent that takes the guesswork out of detergent measurements. The traditional approach of manually measuring and adding detergent to each load is prone to variations in dosage that can result in inconsistent washing results. Auto dosing emerged in the Australian market in the 2010’s as a solution to this problem.

Auto dosing systems use advanced technology to calculate the optimal amount of detergent required based on factors such as load size, fabric type, and the level of soiling. By eliminating the need to measure detergent manually, the system is designed to deliver better cleaning results while also making life a little easier.

The concept of auto dosing in washing machines is part of the wider trend for increased automation and user convenience in all aspects of household chores (think robo vacuum cleaners and self-cleaning pyrolytic ovens). We won’t rest until our domestic robots wait on us hand and foot, Jestsons-style!

The first time you use the auto dosing system, fill the washer’s detergent compartment with a large quantity of liquid detergent, sometimes up to a litre or more. Think of it like putting petrol in your car - you fill the tank once for multiple upcoming journeys!

Sensors then assess the size of the load, the level of soiling, and in some cases the type of fabric, before the machine dispenses the precise amount of detergent needed for that specific wash cycle. This system means that you only need to refill the detergent compartment when it is running low, which might be every few weeks, depending on how often you use your washing machine.

Most washing machines with auto dosing can use regular liquid laundry detergent. Miele is a notable exception, with its own proprietary TwinDos system. While it’s great to have this smart feature, you can switch it off and use traditional manual dosing if you prefer.

There are a few key advantages to using the automatic dosing feature on a washing machine:

By ensuring the precise dispensing of detergent for each load, auto dosing eliminates the risk of overusing or underusing detergent. This precision contributes to consistent washing results and prevents detergent from being wasted.

With auto dosing, you don’t need to grab the heavy detergent bottle every time you put a load on, or spend time measuring out detergent - and invariably cleaning up spills and drips! For busy families that wash a load or more daily, this can be a significant advantage.

By using sensors to calculate the correct amount of detergent based on specific parameters, the automatic dosing system maximises cleaning efficiency and fabric care.

By dispensing the exact amount of detergent needed, auto dosing contributes not only to a reduction in detergent waste, but also less water and energy waste. By eliminating excessive detergent, auto dosing systems can reduce the need for extra rinse cycles, and thereby save water and energy.

Several leading appliance brands, including Electrolux, Fisher & Paykel, LG, Asko and Haier, have incorporated auto dosing technologies into a number of their washing machines - though it’s worth noting that it’s not usually a standard inclusion across their entire ranges. A few other big names in laundry have developed their own unique takes on auto-dosing.

Miele has been at the forefront of laundry innovation with its TwinDos system. This built-in auto dosing feature precisely dispenses Miele's specially formulated detergent. The system also includes a second compartment for fabric softener.

Bosch, meanwhile, has implemented its i-DOS intelligent dosing system in some of its front load washing machines. In addition to measuring out the exact amount of detergent and water needed for each load, it can also do the same for fabric softener.

Samsung has embraced auto dosing with its BubbleWash technology, available in its front load washers. This system premixes detergent with water and air before the wash cycle begins, creating a bubbly foam that optimises the power of the detergent and penetrates fabrics more effectively.

Auto dosing in washing machines can deliver a cleaner, as well as a more efficient, consistent, and environmentally friendly way to tackle your laundry. Appliances Online stocks a huge range of washing machines from over 20 leading brands, including anumber of models with auto dosing capabilities.

Ready to take the mess and guesswork out of laundry day? We deliver washing machines, dryers and washer dryer combos to 95% of Australia's population with Appliances Online's legendary FREE delivery - and we can usually get it to you by the next day (Mon-Fri) as long as it's in stock. Plus, we now offer paid Same Day Delivery in NSW, QLD, and VIC metro areas if you order before 12pm weekdays. We'll even take your old disconnected laundry appliances away for recycling, for free.

For more tips on choosing the right washer for your home, check out our Laundry Buying Guide, call our friendly team 24/7 on 1300 000 500, or message us via the chat icon at the bottom right of your screen.