Steam features can be found in a number of high-end washing machines. Essentially, the feature allows a washing machine to pump hot steam into the drum mid-cycle. Steam helps to soften fabrics, for a more effective clean!

Modern washing machines are now far more feature-packed than their classic counterparts. These modern features help to make modern washing machines much more effective, and far better for all of your laundry needs. Some modern washing machines come with a special steam feature, which is said to massively improve cleaning ability!

But what exactly does the steam feature do? And why should you grab a washing machine with a steam feature built-in? If you’re planning to grab a brand-new washing machine, then you’ll want to keep reading below.

In this guide, the Reliant tech experts will take you through everything there is to know about the steam feature found in modern washing machines. To find out what it does, how it does it, and whether you should look out for the feature yourself!

What Is The Steam Feature On A Washing Machine?

Many top washing machine models can leverage steam to add an extra dimension to the average washing cycle. As the name suggests, this feature allows a washing machine to release steam into the drum at different points in a given cycle.

Many high-end washing machines can pump steam into the drum at different points in a washing cycle! Steam helps to relax the fibres in your laundry so that your detergents can work more effectively!

Steam is noted for its ability to effectively relax the fibres in your laundry. Relaxed fibres are beneficial in a number of ways. When they’re more relaxed, it’s much easier for water and detergent to get to work. In turn, this results in a much more effective clean!

But different washing machines approach the steam feature in very different ways. Let’s take a look at how the steam feature actually works!

How Does The Steam Feature Work On A Washing Machine?

In order to create steam, compatible washing machines heat up water in a small internal reservoir. When the water is heated up to a certain point, naturally, it evaporates and turns into steam. This steam is then sent into the drum at different points in the cycle, via specialised jets!

Most washing machines will allow you to customise each washing cycle. So you can choose at what point in the cycle steam is added to the drum! We recommend adding a burst of steam toward the start of the cycle. This softens your laundry up right away, for a more effective clean!

Why Should You Go For A Washing Machine With A Steam Feature?

If you’re in the market for a new washing machine, you might wonder about investing in a model with a steam feature. Luckily, steam features can offer a number of fantastic benefits!

Greater Cleaning

Steam helps to soften your laundry as it’s being washed. This makes it far easier for water and detergents to get to work. Your detergents will be able to get between every fibre, to quickly lift away dirt, and even certain stains!

The high temperature of steam also allows your detergents to more effectively dissolve during the wash. So none of it ends up going to waste!

Can Kill Bacteria

Steam not only makes your clothes look much cleaner, but it also makes them much more hygienic! The high temperature of steam is effective at targeting and killing all kinds of bacteria and germs. Steam can also effectively sanitise the washing machine drum, for years of effective and hygienic washing!

No Need For Ironing!

As we’ve mentioned, steam is fantastic at softening your clothes. Softer clothes are far less likely to crease during an average washing cycle. This means you can massively cut down on time spent ironing between every wash!

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Washing Machine Steam Features?

Pros

• Steam helps to soften the fibres of your laundry. Softer laundry is not only easier to clean, but also won’t crease!
• High steam temperatures are great at killing bacteria and germs.
• Steam ensures detergents dissolve fully and efficiently. For more effective cleaning!

Cons

• In order to generate steam, the washing machine will need to use more water and electricity. This results in higher operational costs.
• Added steam can lead to a washing cycle being doubled in length!

Do Washing Machines With Steam Features Cost More?

Steam features are most commonly found in high-end washing machines. This means it can cost a little bit extra to access the feature. Luckily, high-end washing machines also come with all manner of extra features. For instance, many high-end washing machines can connect to the internet, or even provide specialised cycles based on the items you place in the drum!

Steam features are mostly only found in high-end washing machines. Thus, it might cost a little bit extra to access the feature! Steam features also use more electricity and water, for potentially higher bills!

So, while you might have to pay a little extra for a steam feature, the benefits it offers help more than makeup for the cost!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should You Buy A Washing Machine With A Steam Feature?

Washing machines with steam features are able to deliver a more effective wash. Steam is notable because it can help soften your fabrics as they’re washed. Softer fabrics are much easier to clean, as the detergent can work between the fibres! Softer fabrics are also less likely to crease! So you won’t have to slave away ironing your clothes between each cycle!

When Should You Use A Steam Wash?

It’s best to use a steam wash whenever your clothes might have been exposed to bacteria and germs. Hot steam can kill contaminants, for more hygienic washing. Steam can also be used to lift allergens from clothes. So, if you suffer from hayfever, a steam wash can help to keep your laundry free of pollen!