Samsung’s senior vice president says all of the company’s product development is now being done “through the lens of hygiene” as the pandemic continues on. Other appliance manufacturing giants, such as LG Electronics and Whirlpool Corp., are adding new technologies to their products for advanced disinfection capabilities. LG Electronics’ refrigerators have been retrofitted with ultraviolet, sterilizing lights, reports Realtor.com. Whirlpool’s washing machines now offer built-in heating to remove germs and allergens. And Samsung is expanding its team with water and air quality experts. These changes come as a response to the pandemic, but also as a response to the increased use of home appliances.
Indeed, hygiene is driving the home-appliance industry’s extreme makeover. For decades, firms saw sales grow sluggishly, especially in lucrative markets in the U.S. and Western Europe, churning out a predictable cycle of dryers, ovens and microwave ovens. A push toward digitized “smart homes” failed to captivate consumers who saw little reason to track their milk levels through artificial intelligence or get text alerts when the laundry was done.
But now, virus-weary buyers are perking up everywhere. Household appliances are breaking down faster than before with increased use as people shelter at home, and existing malfunctions have now become more intolerable. As travel remains limited because of the pandemic, wealthier consumers flush with cash are choosing to upgrade household products or splurge on new purchases.
Related Stories
Healthy Homes
Top Health and Wellness Products Showcased at 2023 Design & Construction Week
These new products featured at the 10th annual Design & Construction Week reflect a growing interest in wellness design following the COVID-19 pandemic
International Builders' Show
What Were the Biggest Trends From the IBS and KBIS 2023 Expo Floor?
New innovations on the 2023 show floor reflected these popular up-and-coming design trends for the year ahead
Builders
3 ProConnect Single Family Events for Home Builders and Product Manufacturers in 2023
The events will be held at luxury resorts and hotels in Texas, Florida, and Washington, D.C.