The battle of the sexes has produced a new, rather surprising battleground - washing machines and detergents!
Men are now feeling the pressure to contribute to the upkeep of the household.This has led to reports of men being left baffled by the appliance.
Whether it is simply a ploy to shirk the chore or not, suggestions have been made for making washing machines easier to understand.
Some entrepreneurial start-ups have started to create washing detergents targeted at men with more “manly” scents.
In this article, we'll take a look at whether there is the need for men-only detergent. Also, we'll take a look at why some are saying washing machines should be redesigned.
Are men as clueless about washing machines as statistics say?
Indesit's research in Britain and found that:
Both males and females complained that the report and statistics came across as patronising towards men.
In addition to this, many were questioning how impartial research published by a washing machine manufacturer could be. At the time, Indesit were
How Many Programmes?!
After all, most washing machines come with at least 10-15 programmes built-in, let alone the ability to change the temperature and adjust the spin speed!
(KOENIC is a German manufacturer, but the point raised about confusing washing machines symbols is a good one!)
Peter's article apparently struck a chord as it was later translated into three other languages and shared widely. Although he never got a response, he took matters into his own hands and “hacked” his communal washing machine with stickers.
However, both males and females are more than capable of reading the instruction manual to learn how to operate it properly (providing it's not in German or Chinese!)
ASA Banned Adverts Showing Incompetent Men in 2017
"...objectify, sexualise or mock people for not conforming to stereotypes".
Can New Technology Help Men?
Some ‘smart’ washing machines can connect to your wifi network, allowing you to control the device from your phone.
The technology is still in its infancy, meaning that these smart washing machines are costly. Naturally, they will become more affordable over time.
Before long, we’ll be choosing our washing cycle and starting a wash whether we’re at home, on the train, or in the office!
Some of the apps also assist in choosing the right programme for your laundry by asking for information such as the material of the garments and the max temperature indicated by the care label.
Although technology can help us make use of the other 13 programmes on the washing machine, instead of the standard 2 or 3 ones chosen out of habit, unfortunately, we still have to pick up, sort, and load the machine!
Do Men Need Manlier Detergents?
There is no doubt that combined with some of the fragrance options such as lavender & jasmine, peony blush, gentle orange and tropical lily, that some of these products have been targeted explicitly towards females.
What is a "Manly Fragrance"
Some of the detergents developed for men have scents such as:
Some claim that these scents can make males more appealing to females. For example, sandalwood reportedly resembles androsterone.
Regardless of whether the science behind the claims stacks up, it’s natural to feel more confident when you feel like you smell good. Confidence can translate into a better sense of well-being and happiness.
Does it have extra cleaning power?
One sceptic commented that instead of paying extra for manly detergent, why not just use one of the many unscented existing detergents and add a couple of drops of cologne?
Or, as many people do, just wear clean clothes and apply aftershave
Although the small companies state there is a big gap in the market, no big players have started producing "for men" products. However, this may change in the coming years.
So, do men need their own washing machine and detergents? No. But, would men (and women) prefer a simple, more intuitive washing machine? Quite possibly, and as technology continues to progress, it’ll no doubt that soon our laundry woes will be over.
Would you buy it if it appeared in your supermarket in the laundry aisle?
Or how about simpler washing machines - do you think
Let us know in the comments below!