LG SteamWasher: now with allergen-reducing powers

Yeah, the SteamWasher has already found its way into a-many abodes, but LG is making said device attractive to even more individuals by adding a dose of allergen-reducing magic. Hailed as the "first washing machine proven to reduce allergens," the new units can be spotted by the unique Allergiene laundry cycle, which acts to reduce dust mites and pet dander (just to name a couple) on fabrics by some 95-percent. If you're not exactly keen on just taking LG's word for it, the machine is also certified asthma and allergy friendly by the AAFA, so yeah, there's that. Those anxious to stop sneezing every time they dress can grab one in a myriad finishes for $1,399 to $2,699, and once you've dropped that, why not pick up the matching SteamDryer for an extra $1,199 to $2,699?

[EMoShunz @ Jan 15th 2008 10:14AM]

i wonder what effect this would have on other small creatures, like lice?

[Jeff @ Jan 15th 2008 10:46AM]

That is a crazy amount of money to spend on a washer and dryer.

I understand you will probably have these for 20 years, and they're responsible for your looking and feeling clean during that entire period. I think paying something of a premium on a washer and dryer is probably not a bad thing, if you get a good one of each out of the deal.

But $5,000 total on a combo? Sheezus!

[glenn s @ Jan 15th 2008 10:53AM]

But dropping $5000 on a high end gaming PC that will obsolete in 3 years is Ok, right? I mean, I wouldn't, but I'm sure there are engadget readers who already have. It's all about your priorities. (and your bank account).

[Flashpoint @ Jan 15th 2008 10:50AM]

I've got to wonder what is the Energy Star efficiency rating on this thing.

[Bloobie @ Jan 15th 2008 11:14AM]

One of the models has a modified energy factor above 2.4, which is very efficient according to the EPA website.

[rcappo @ Jan 15th 2008 11:30AM]

Even at $2500/pair, it would be pricey. Considering that you can get a normal new front load washer/dryer for $1400. There are allergen killing soaps and additives that you can put in with each wash (Maybe $1/load). So it might take 1,100 loads before it is worth it (and if the technology still works at that time). As a single guy, it might take me 10 years to do that many loads of laundry (2 per week). But washers and dryers do last a long time.

[JBo @ Jan 15th 2008 1:11PM]

You do two loads of laundry a week? Do your jeans walk on their own the machine? Yikes!

You do know that wearing your underwear inside out does not mean its clean, right?

[Mark @ Jan 16th 2008 1:30PM]

Are you saying he doesn't do enough laundry? I have the Whirlpool Duet and do average about 2 loads every 2 weeks.

[John B @ Jan 15th 2008 11:33AM]

Wow! That's a hunk of change to drop for a washer and dryer, but unfortunately pet dander and dust mites are my two, biggest allergies. So, from a quality-of-life perspective these might be great replacements for our current washer/dryer.

Hmmm... It might be time to start looking at places to take advantage of any 0% financing offers.

[Jason @ Jan 15th 2008 2:47PM]

I'm one of those suckers who dropped $2400 on this (unfortunately without the allergen thingy) washer dryer combo set (in white) about 6 months ago.

It is allot, but it will last (hopefully) for many many years, it is one of the best rated (according to consumer reports and the EPA, amongst others) washing machines out there at the moment. The dryer is not energy star compliant, but then again, none of them are.

The best reason to get a steamwasher (even if its not this brand), you never have to iron again.. I hate ironing, in the morning before I take my shower, I toss my clothes in the washer and hit steam refresh, runs for about 20 min (leaving the clothes only a tiny bit damp), but completely wrinkle free :)

Oh, we replaced our original washer/dryer combo, because it was original to the house built in 67 (kitchenaid.. that shit lasts forever.. free plug for them), it was starting to destroy our clothes, atleast every load of laundry started leaving holes and rips in a number of clothing items, it was time to replace them.

[TJ @ Jan 15th 2008 9:53PM]

The 2499 is stainless steel so for the set its will set you back 5 grand if you are nuts about SS.