What Is a Steam Function in a Washing Machine?
Today's most advanced washing machines go beyond water and detergent — they harness the natural power of steam to deliver a deeper, gentler clean. By injecting steam directly into the wash drum, these machines relax fabric fibres, smooth out creases, and lift stubborn residues without harsh handling.
The result? Garments that emerge from the cycle softer, fresher, and far less wrinkled — often ready to wear straight from the drum, cutting your ironing time dramatically.
Steam is released at key points in the cycle — before washing to pre-condition fibres, and after rinsing to smooth creases and lock in freshness. Advanced models also feature a dedicated finish cycle that irons out wrinkles using precision steam, optimised temperatures, and targeted drum movement, giving you that pressed look without ever lifting an iron.
6 Reasons to Choose a Steam Washing Machine
Steam technology offers a range of powerful advantages that go well beyond a standard wash cycle. Here's what makes it a standout upgrade for any household.
Relaxes Fabric Fibres
Steam penetrates deep into fabric threads, releasing tension and reducing creases so your garments come out noticeably smoother — saving you hours at the ironing board each week.
Eliminates Allergens & Bacteria
High-temperature steam reaches parts of fabric that standard water cycles miss, effectively neutralizing dust mites, allergens, and bacteria — ideal for sensitive skin and allergy-prone households.
Removes Odours Naturally
Steam doesn't just mask unpleasant smells — it eliminates them at the source, leaving clothes genuinely fresh and clean rather than just scented with detergent.
Refreshes Lightly Worn Clothes
Not every garment needs a full wash. A quick steam cycle freshens up clothes worn briefly — restoring their shape and scent without unnecessary water or energy use.
Gentle on Delicate Fabrics
Steam is inherently softer than mechanical agitation. Silk, wool, and other fine textiles benefit from its gentle action, receiving a thorough clean without the risk of shrinkage or damage.
Fabrics That Should Avoid Steam Treatment
Steam washing offers clear benefits for the majority of everyday garments — but not every fabric is compatible. Keep the following items away from steam cycles to avoid damage.
While most cotton, linen, and synthetic blends handle steam beautifully, these fabric types require extra care and should generally be excluded from steam wash programmes:
- Chamois leather
- Clothes with pearls
- Feather-filled outfits
- Leather & faux leather
- PVC clothing
- Sequin-decorated garments
Advanced Steam Technologies Worth Knowing
Modern steam-equipped washing machines pack multiple intelligent programmes to cover every laundry scenario — from deep drum cleaning to rapid refresh cycles.
DrumClean+ Programme
Uses steam to deep-clean the drum itself between laundry loads — eliminating built-up grime, bacteria, and odours so every wash starts in a hygienic environment.
SteamTherapy Cycle
A rapid 17-minute programme capable of handling up to 2 lbs of dry clothing. The tumbling steam wash reduces garment wrinkles by up to 58%, delivering fast results without a full cycle.
IronFast Finish
Once washing is complete, additional steam is released with precision timing and temperature control — smoothing creases automatically so clothes emerge nearly press-ready.
Upgrade Your Laundry Routine Today
A steam-powered washing machine is more than a convenience — it's a smarter approach to fabric care that saves time, reduces wear on your clothes, and delivers a level of cleanliness that standard cycles simply can't match.
Available in a range of capacities and finishes, today's steam washers fit seamlessly into any home setup. Whether freestanding or integrated, there's a model built around your lifestyle.