In developing countries that lack electricity or the funds to buy expensive machines, taking care of laundry the old-fashioned way requires an enormous amount of time and effort.  That’s why Alex Cabunoc and Ji A You created the GiraDora – a combination washer and spin-dryer that is powered by a foot pedal.  At only $40, this ingenious contraption is an inexpensive way to help break the cycle of poverty in many disadvantaged communities.

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Post tags: alex cabunoc, Clothes, dell social innovation challenge, developing countries, dryer, Electricity, ergonomic, gira dora, India, international design excellence awards, ji a you, peru, Poverty, south america, washing machine, water issues

Want a washing machine in your home, but worried that it’ll take up more space than you have to spare? Well, Electrolux Design Lab debuted some awesome new pint-sized conceptual designs for washing machines called SHINE at Milan Design Week that might be just the solution. These small, sleek laundry units are designed with an awareness of our movement towards more compact living spaces. One is designed for integration into a bathroom, and the other is so mini, it can be hung on a wall!

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Post tags: compact appliances, dryer, eco design, Electrolux, Green Appliances, green design, laundry machine, Milan Design Week, Milan Furniture Fair, Salone del mobile, shine, sustainable design, wall hung washing machine, washer, washing machine