A modern washing machine should not only wash clothes effectively but also simplify daily life, conserve resources, and care for your laundry. A washing machine with automatic dosing meets these demands by precisely adjusting detergent and fabric softener to each specific load. This prevents over- and under-dosing, protects textiles and the environment, and can reduce costs in the long run.
This article serves as a guide for selecting the right appliance. It explains important purchasing criteria and presents a selection of models with this feature for the year 2026.
The decision for a new household appliance should be based on objective criteria. Three key aspects are energy efficiency, smart features, and useful extra programmes.
The new EU energy label, which includes classes A to G, has been in effect since March 2021. A washing machine with energy efficiency class A is among the most economical appliances on the market. Pay attention to the energy consumption per 100 wash cycles (in kWh) and the water consumption per cycle (in litres), which are indicated on the label. Low consumption not only means lower electricity and water bills but also contributes to eco-friendly washing. Models with automatic dosing further enhance efficiency by avoiding unnecessary rinse cycles through the exact amount of detergent used.
A smart washing machine with an app offers significant convenience. Via a Wi-Fi connection, the appliance can be controlled using a smartphone or tablet. Typical functions include:
Manufacturers like Bosch with Home Connect or Samsung with SmartThings offer mature platforms for this.
The drum size is a crucial criterion. A front-loader with 8 kg capacity is often sufficient for couples or small families. Larger households will benefit from models with 9 kg or more.
Other useful features include:
Here is a selection of washing machines with automatic dosing that stand out for their technical specifications and features.
What sets this model apart: The Bosch i-DOS technology not only dispenses automatically but can also adapt the dosage to the detergent's specific formulation and the local water hardness by scanning the detergent barcode via the Home Connect app. According to the manufacturer, the appliance is 20% more efficient than the limit for energy efficiency class A. The Iron Assist steam function reduces wrinkles in dry laundry. With an operating noise of just 48 dB during the wash cycle, it is also very quiet.
Pros:
Who it's for: This model is aimed at tech-savvy households with high standards for efficiency, convenience, and smart integration who are looking for a durable solution.
What sets this model apart: Despite its 8 kg capacity, this Haier washing machine has a shallow depth of just 50 cm, making it suitable for smaller spaces. The Direct Motion motor is attached directly to the drum, which reduces vibrations and allows for a very quiet spin cycle of just 65 dB (noise emission class A). The Auto Dose function provides automatic detergent dispensing.
Pros:
Who it's for: Ideal for households with limited space who are looking for a quiet, efficient, and yet spacious washing machine.
What sets this model apart: The Samsung Ecobubble technology creates an active foam that thoroughly cleans laundry even at low temperatures, enabling energy-efficient washing. The AI control learns the user's washing habits and suggests suitable cycles. The automatic dosing system stores detergent and fabric softener for multiple loads. The appliance can be controlled and expanded with additional special programmes via the SmartThings app.
Pros:
Who it's for: This appliance is perfect for users who want a smart washing machine with strong app integration, learning features, and a focus on gentle, hygienic cleaning.
What sets this model apart: With an exceptionally large capacity of 12 kg, this Hisense washing machine is designed for the needs of large families. It also features an automatic dosing function (Auto Dose) and a steam function for stain removal and wrinkle reduction. The PureJet technology ensures intensive soaking of the laundry, while the Hygiene Guard mode removes bacteria and allergens. It can also be controlled via the ConnectLife app.
Pros:
Who it's for: The ideal choice for large households that need a machine with maximum capacity without sacrificing modern features like auto-dosing and smart control.
If you haven't found the right model for you among these recommendations, you can find more washing machines and household appliances in our Canned Water category.
Appliances with auto-dosing have sensors that detect the weight of the laundry and often its soil level. Based on this data and the selected programme, the machine calculates the exact amount of liquid detergent and fabric softener needed from integrated reservoirs. This ensures optimal washing results and prevents detergent residue.
Yes, in most cases, manual dosing leads to excessive use of detergent. An automatic dosing system consistently prevents this overdosing. This not only saves detergent and fabric softener but also water, as less foam requires fewer additional rinse cycles. In the long run, this leads to cost savings.
The automatic dosing systems are typically designed for liquid detergent and fabric softener. However, most models still have a classic detergent drawer where you can manually add powder detergent or special detergents (e.g., for wool or sportswear) if needed.