Pedal-powered washing machine saves electricity

A washing machine just 22in high washes, rinses and spin dries clothes via a foot pedal.

Yirego, a Toronto-based design company, released recently a 22in-high washing machine called the Drumi, which can be operated without electricity. The user simply presses up and down on the pedal for about five minutes, split into one cycle each for wash, rinse and spin dry. The washing machine can handle a 5-pound load per round.

The Drumi is good for off-the-grid activities such as camping, or for short trips where there is no access to a laundromat. It is lightweight and has handles for easy transportation. Furthermore, it can be repurposed as a laundry hamper in between cycles.

Over a year ago, two industrial designers from California created the GiraDora, which is operated by sitting on the drum-type product and then stepping on the foot pedal. This leaves the user's hands free for other tasks. The GiraDora was primarily designed for disadvantaged communities to ease the rigors of hand washing. The designers also believe the GiraDora can help these communities by providing income through laundry services and rentals.

Such types of machines are useful when no electricity is available, allowing users to save up on electricity costs in the long run.

See a comparison table of washing machine suppliers on GlobalSources.com