As Popular as Ever – the Washing Machine

Frankfurt am Main, 20/02/2025 – A stain on your favorite shirt can be annoying – and it becomes even more frustrating when the care label only allows hand washing. Fortunately, washing machines have long been indispensable everyday helpers that save us time and effort every day. With innovative technologies and smart functions, they are adapting ever better to our needs and are even able to take over hand washing with sensitive motor control and optimized drum movement. Even after more than 100 years, they remain a permanent fixture in the household. This is also clearly reflected in revenue and sales figures.

GfK figures show solid growth for the washing machine market in 2024: Total revenue rose by 1.3% to around 1.68 billion euros, while sales figures increased by 3.5% to just under 3 million appliances. Models with innovative functions such as steam technology or washer-dryer combinations were particularly in demand.

The greatest momentum was seen in washing machines with a steam function – a feature that ensures hygienically clean, wrinkle-free laundry. Revenue in this segment grew by an impressive 19.6%, while sales figures increased by 22.8% to 1.7 million appliances. Consumers are increasingly opting for this technology, which not only saves time but also protects the environment.

Washer-dryers are also continuing to gain popularity. With revenue growth of 11.1% and a sales increase of 11.9%, the figures show that more and more households are choosing the space-saving 2-in-1 solution. Especially in urban living spaces, where space is a decisive factor, these appliances offer a practical alternative to the classic washing machine and a separate dryer.

The figures show that the washing machine market remains on the move. Technologies that make washing more efficient, more convenient and more sustainable are the drivers of this growth. “Washing Machine Day” not only reminds us of the importance of this household appliance, but also underscores how smart innovations make our everyday lives easier.