Using Scandinavian principles to create an efficient, low-stress laundry room

For many homeowners, the best laundry is one that is neither seen nor heard. However, its purpose-built nature doesn’t preclude the laundry room from looking good and doing better, with its functional origins allowing for improvements in both style and efficiency.

Often dismissed as a mundane yet inevitable chore, a few carefully considered appliances can help simplify and destress the laundry process. With its origins in laundry goods, Swedish brand ASKO has continually innovated and redefined the category, creating intuitive and aesthetically pleasing yet innocuous appliances that make washing, drying, ironing and storing your clothes a breeze.

A brand born out of love, ASKO was founded in 1950 by Karl-Erik Anderson, who wanted to create a washing machine that would make his mother’s life easier. Over 70 years on and ASKO continues to produce appliances that embody the signature functional, minimalist design pioneered by the Scandinavians.

A common bugbear with washing machines is the almost earthquake-like rattling and the noise they emit during operation. Each ASKO washing machine is crafted with trademarked Quattro Construction, in which the inner and outer drum rest upon four shock absorbers attached to the bottom plate, ensuring lower noise levels and a more stable washing machine.

To ensure optimum hygiene, each ASKO washing machine does away with the rubber door seal; a common harbourer of bacteria. Instead, a maintenance-free Steel Seal solution sits in its place, leaving no place for dirt and grime to congregate. Made in line with the highest health standards, ASKO washing machines bear the Sensitive Choice blue butterfly; the only washing machines to boast this accreditation.

Suitable for even the smallest spaces, ASKO’s heat pump tumble dryers utilise a closed air circulation system, letting them be installed in place with little incoming air. Rather than using heat alone, the air is dehumidified with an evaporator, allowing for lower temperatures to be used in the drying process. This makes the drying process more gentle, without sacrificing efficiency or drying capacity. The heat pump dryer technology also reduces the risk of shrinkage, meaning that even delicate fabrics can be dried.

For clothes that need to be handled with extra care, an ASKO Drying Cabinet is a must-have. Popular in Scandinavian countries where the wet, cold climate often precludes drying clothes in the sun from being a viable option, a Drying Cabinet provides a fuss-free solution. Effective for both delicate and heavyweight fabrics alike, drying cabinets work without mechanical action, allowing your clothes to dry without stretching or damaging the fibres. The Drying Cabinet’s air steam eliminates residual moisture, resulting in the same effect as drying your clothes outdoors. Best of all, there’s no time lost hanging and retrieving your clothes outside; simply set and forget.

Even in homes with expansive floor plans, the laundry room typically tends to take on a cosier tone. The laundry accessory you didn’t know you needed, Hidden Helpers aid in optimising storage space without cutting into valuable floor space. Designed to slot over, under or between your washer and dryer, Hidden Helpers are just that; a subtle and discreet way to add storage. The epitome of Scandinavian functionality.

Discover the full range of ASKO products and laundry solutions on ArchiPro.