'Life-changing': Treat yourself to in-home laundry with this $460 portable washing machine
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In-house laundry is a luxury many of us take for granted. Having access to fresh clothes, bedding and towels are integral to keeping both ourselves and our homes healthy and clean.
For those without access to in-house washer and dryer in their apartments or cottages, who rely on public laundry facilities or who are avoiding public spaces whenever possible, laundry can be stressful — which means many are searching for alternatives.
A quick scroll through Amazon delivers portable and affordable options that can make in-house laundry an option, whether you’re in a high-rise or cottage country, like the Panda Small Compact Portable Washing Machine.
Panda Compact Portable Washing Machine
SHOP IT: Amazon, $460
What is it?
Panda’s compact washing machine features allows for 3 kg (6.6lbs) capacity of laundry in a stainless steel tub, perfect for condo living, apartments, or as a second unit for the home. Weighing only 44 lbs, this portable washing machine features two back wheels for easy maneuvering around your space.
While there are two inlets for both hot and cold water, the easiest way to use this unit at home is to connect the adapter and inlet hose to your faucet (any standard size faucet) to wash with cold water only. Select one of the five wash programs on the machine’s LED digital touch screen and select wash, spin and rinse times, keeping your faucet on while the machine is in use.
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Each washer is sold with an inlet hose, copper and quick adapter, as well as a drain hose and U-hook you can attach to your sink.
What people are saying
The Panda Compact Portable Washing Machine boasts more than 100 reviews and a solid 4.3 out of 5 star rating from customers who have called the addition of the little machine to their space “life changing.”
“I bought this unit at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic so that I wouldn't have to use the public facilities in my building...The washing machine works flawlessly,” one customer wrote, noting that due to size, the unit cleans about 1/3 of standard size units. “This purchase has absolutely changed my life for the better and was worth every penny. I no longer have to haul baskets up and down six flights of stairs to wash in a public machine that has never been cleaned or maintained. My clothes actually smell FRESH now, and laundry is simply a multi-tasking afterthought instead of a chore now.”
While there are portable dryer units by Panda that you can buy online as well, many customers have said that the spin cycle on the washer is powerful enough that clothes can hang dry within a short period of time.
“I live in an apartment building that didn’t have in unit laundry. I agonized over which portable washer to buy. Let me save you some time: This one is GREAT. Buy it! I’m able to wash everything except bulky bed linens (queen sheets are fine),” another reviewer said. “Even the dirtiest gym clothes come out clean, and the spin cycle is so effective drying takes no time.”
Verdict
If you’re looking for a solution to your current laundry situation, the Panda portable washer may be an economic and practical choice for your space.
The Panda might not be large enough for comforters and heavy blankets, but it’s definitely ideal for clothing, sheets and throw blankets. While the 6.6 lb capacity can get the job done, there are also options that can accommodate larger quantities, like the 15 lb unit.
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The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
