You want a drum-type washing machine, but would prefer a more affordable price. Yet, you also want abundant features that can wash delicate items without damage. The washing machine 'AITO,' perfect for those who love fashion and don't want to harm their clothes, will be released by Haier Japan Sales. Mihara Yasuhiro, a designer with strong opinions on clothing creation and a dislike for laundry, encounters this product that fulfills consumers' desires. He poses direct questions about washing.

Mihara Yasuhiro, due to his aversion to laundry, had been over-relying on his washing machine. It turns out he had been washing all his clothes non-stop, including the drying process. While initially shocked that 'AITO' lacks a drying function, he begins to consider that it might be the right choice for fashion enthusiasts and eco-conscious individuals. This is where the conversation begins.

Haier Japan SalesFor those who cherish their clothes, 'AITO' offers various courses like 'Soft' and 'Dry' to accommodate different types of garments.

MiharaHuh, Soft? Dry??

Haier Japan SalesThe 'Soft' course provides a gentler wash than standard, making it suitable for sweaters. The 'Dry' course is designed for more delicate items, allowing them to be washed with special detergent for fine fabrics. The spin cycle is also set to a gentler setting to avoid damaging clothes. Conversely, for those who prefer a more thorough wash, there's the 'Intensive' course.

MiharaOh, that sounds like it could make laundry more enjoyable.

— When you buy home appliances, how do you typically choose them?

MiharaI consider the features, but in the end, I often choose based on appearance. I absolutely hate reading instruction manuals, so I prefer things that are easy to understand. It's best if it's not unpleasant to have around.

— What do you think of 'AITO's' design?

MiharaIt's a beautiful design. My memories of washing machines involve watching my mother use one when I was little. For a family appliance, something cute rather than futuristic or cold would likely foster more affection. Designs that remain in memory aren't necessarily perfect.

But if I were asked to design an appliance myself, I'd probably struggle. That's because it's something used daily, requiring familiarity. While appearance is important, I'd want a clear, large dial and few buttons. This one only has one, so it communicates without needing explanation.

Haier Japan SalesExactly, you can select courses intuitively by turning the dial. Fine-tuning is done using the upper half of the LCD display, allowing you to choose your preferred wash time, number of rinses, and spin duration and speed. 'AITO's' design theme is simplicity. Therefore, we've designed it so that buttons are inconspicuous when the power is off. That was a key design consideration.

MiharaI also like that everything can be operated with one hand. Pressing a button, touching the dial, and with the beeping sounds, I imagine I could set it without looking. It seems convenient to operate while doing something else, as I don't want to think too hard. Conversely, it's also useful for people with visual impairments or mobility issues. It's a well-considered function for people.

Haier Japan SalesWe do consider aspects like universal design, as you mentioned, but we feel it's not yet perfect and aim to incorporate it further in the future.

— Mr. Mihara, you tend to be quite meticulous, don't you? If you got into laundry, you'd probably fine-tune the settings to your liking.

MiharaIf I get into something, my level of detail can be extreme. If I developed an 'ideal' for laundry, it would be over. Clothes are made of cotton, linen, various synthetics, blended yarns, twisted yarns, and so on. It sounds fun to become a master who can adjust settings while touching the fabric.

MiharaGaining 'knowledge' seems like it could make laundry interesting. Perhaps my goal this year will be laundry education. 'Wash-ucation.' Experimenting with proper usage seems like it could lead to many discoveries. But I wonder how washing machines will evolve from here.

Haier Japan SalesThe evolution of detergents has also played a significant role in the past decade. Powder detergents have decreased in popularity, replaced by liquid detergents. This has led to 'automatic detergent dispensing' becoming a standard feature. Furthermore, the release of compact liquid detergents and improved rinsing performance have enabled 'single-rinse' cycles. With the increasing availability of detergents for delicate items, it's now possible to wash sweaters and washable suits at home. Detergents will continue to evolve, and perhaps washing machines will eventually be able to fold clothes or even turn socks right-side out.

MiharaIf AI told me, 'Your socks are inside out,' or 'Wool is in there, so no!' or 'Watch out for color bleeding!' I might even give the appliance a name. Maybe 'Wash-kun,' 'Bubble-kun'... ah, 'Babu' might be good. I'd want it to respond to its name, like, 'Babu, wash my lucky underwear for me' (laughs).

Haier Japan SalesWe anticipate the integration of sensors, cameras, and other technologies in the future.

MiharaI hope laundry becomes more enjoyable. Without enjoyment, nothing truly comes of it. Laundry has 'philosophy' and 'ideals,' which is perhaps why it has become a 'culture.' After our conversation, I feel inspired to explore laundry more playfully. I plan to conduct various experiments. For starters, I'll try ending the cycle with a spin and then air-drying, without using the drying function.