Easily named one of the greatest inventions of all time, the washing machine has a long history that very few people know much about. Of course, the machines we know today have been around for sixty years, but technology has come a long way since the early 1900s. In our previous blog post we talked about how laundry was done before the washing machine was invented.
Today, we are going to focus more on how things have progressed since its introduction. If you're searching for affordable Speed Queen dealers in North Carolina, be sure to call T & L!
The History Of Washing Machines
Remember, washing machines have been around since the early 1950s, but that doesn’t mean we weren’t washing laundry before then. Since the beginning of the fabric era, dirty clothing and linens have been a thorn in our side. Back before the '50s, washing wasn’t quite what we are used to now. The equipment used to wash clothes was dangerous. Because of the wringers used on old washers, people often became caught in the contraption by either their hair or hand. The machine also had a hard time leaving buttons on pants and shirts.
In our last blog post we left off talking about Maytag's invention of the wooden basin washer. While this type of contraption was helpful in washing the laundry, the method was very hard on clothing. It was important that someone eventually invent a machine that didn't shred clothing to pieces after several washes. Even more, the electric components of these washers weren't protected. As water leaked out of the tub, users were often shocked with electricity when water hit the motor.
Eventually, copper tubs came into play. Maytag was the first to adapt this type of basin. Made of nickel or nickel-chromium, these new tubs were much easier on cloth. There was still, however, the shocking factor.
Then, in the 1920s, the copper tub was replaced by sheet metal covered in white enamel. Angled iron legs were added to the bottom of the basin. In the 1940s, the white enamel basins became popular, as it was noted that they were not only easier to keep clean but they lasted much longer than copper. Even more, the motor mount was enclosed by a sheet of metal, keeping the user safe from any jolts of electric shock!
As you can assume, things only progressed from here! As we moved into the 1950s, washing machines really started to progress in technology.
Thankfully, in 1957 a new type of machine was invented. It was made by the popular company GE and offered a five button control system. You could not only rinse, agitate and spin clothing, you could control the water temps and speeds of the cycle.
This decade also saw the design of a twin-tub washer. One for cleaning and rinsing and one for tumble drying. This made having washers and dryers inside the home more accessible and cost effective.
As technology progressed into the 1990s, we found that the design of washing machines became more advanced in the turn knobs and dials. Microcontrollers replaced the old dials and in the new millennia, we have progressed into a digital age. Washers are now equipped with LED displays and buttons that work digitally. No longer do we have a need for turn knobs or dials. Smart washers have minicomputers and sensors as well as energy efficiency and Eco-friendly options. They use less water and energy but wash better than ever. This is possible due to insulation, thermostats that work efficiently and less water waste.
This generation has taken on a less is more type mentality. That means the washer will only progress from here on out! We are excited to see what future technology holds for these very important machines.
Affordable Speed Queen Dealers in North Carolina | T & L Laundry Equipment
If you’re ready to talk with T & L about purchasing washers or dryers, contact us. We are here to help you with all your Speed Queen Laundry equipment needs. Don’t hesitate to call with any questions or concerns you might have about our products. We hope to work with you soon, to help you start saving time, money and energy with the best equipment on the market! When you're searching for affordable Speed Queen dealers in North Carolina, call T & L
