Laundry was first done in watercourses, letting the water carry away the materials which could cause stains and smells. Since agitation helps remove the dirt, the laundry was rubbed, twisted, or slapped against flat rocks. Far removed from these times, washing machines and dryers have evolved to be the most used mechanical appliance in our homes and as such, now have different technologies to match the new materials used in clothing.

 

The power of steam is now integrated in a lot of models to allow for a deeper clean, fresher smell and even the prevention of wrinkles.