Any experience of Steam Washing Machines?

LondonLass

I need a new washing machine since the old one just turned a large amount of clothing into tea bags. I've decided that 8kg drum and 1600 rpm is the way forward, and am intrigued by a new washing machine that has steam built into its programme.

http://www.johnlewis.com/Shopping/Product.aspx?Type=SKU&Id=231071044

its a Hotpoint WMD967P. I tried hotpoint's web site for details but nothing there, and searched for reviews but came up blank. Its more or less in my budget, but is it a pointless feature that i should avoid?

Coopdivi

In my opinion that's just marketing spiel. When I clicked on your link there was another link to 'Washing machine advice from Which' and they said: Extra rinsing

This washing machine feature is useful for people with eczema, sensitive skin or allergies. An extra rinse removes more detergent from the washing. If you have a problem with undissolved detergents, consider switching to liquid detergents, particularly for quick-wash programs.

So in other words Hotpoint's steam hygiene option is exactly the same as an extra rinse.

http://www.johnlewis.com/150/Content.aspx

LondonLass

Well to be honest i also looked at the WMD962P which appears identical apart from the steam, but is £30 more. So at face value i am paying less for more. The steam refresh option does sound interesting, since many a time you might want to freshen up a shirt or two that has only been on for a couple of hours. Don't see me using it regularly, but a 2 year warranty from John Lewis is good enough a reason to make me choose them rather than the other online vendors for the same price.

Coopdivi

I wasn't trying to put you off John Lewis in the slightest. I just don't understand why you asked the original question if you were going to go ahead and buy it anyway.

LondonLass

Just in case someone posted something along the lines of "DON'T BUY IT, ITS RUBBISH!!!"

ailuro2

Steam Refresh: The Steam Refresh cycle is a short 20 minute programme which uses only steam (no detergent or fabric softener) to help remove odours such as smoke or food smells or to freshen up garments that have only been worn a few hours.

Steam Hygiene Option: The Steam Hygiene Option activates an additional period of steam action at the end of most normal wash cycles to ensure a deep and thorough cleanse with the added reassurance of the antibacterial effect of steam ensuring all allergens are removed – ideal if you have sensitive skin.

I think it's a bit of a gimmick, tbh, how is a bit of steam going to remove the smell of smoke from clothes once it's already stuck to it?