The Gadget Show reviews the Miele G5720 SC Dishwasher

The Gadget Show has reviewed and compared three dishwashers, with Jon Bentley being ably assisted by multi award winning French chef, Jean-Christophe Novelli to put the appliances through their paces.

Among the line-up was the Miele G5720 SC Dishwasher which, when the cycles had run and the last drops of water dried, came out on top scoring four out of five Gadget Show Gs.

To see exactly what was involved in the test watch the video here and if you want to review the G5720 SC you can do so on The Gadget Show website.

The Benefits of Washing Clothes in an Eco Friendly Way

The great climate change debate continues and we are all urged to change our lifestyles for the sake of the planet. Saving the planet is quite a tall order but if we all do something to reduce our demands on the planet’s resources, the total effect could add up to something significant.

The added bonus is that these efforts can save us money (to spend in an environmentally responsible way of course!). The beauty of eco-friendly ways is that even small changes to our normal routines do add up; switching the light off when we leave the room and turning the tap off whilst we brush our teeth, for example. Sorting waste for recycling requires a little more effort, but can be satisfying in a “putting things in order” sort of way and the effort of making a compost heap has a certain “mud pie” appeal. Some people, once they have the “eco” bug, find they have to take it to the maximum by doing away with all personal possessions and going off to live as one with nature; others go completely Vegan and refuse to have anything to do with PVC but for most of us baby steps are all we can manage so let us consider the benefits of washing clothes in an eco friendly way:

Wash with a full load.

It stands to reason that you will use less energy and water if you organise your washing regime so that you always put in a full load every time you use your washing machine. There, that is not too hard.

Wash at lower temperatures.

Pay attention to the washing instructions on clothes and use the temperature recommended. Some modern synthetics can be washed at temperatures as low as 30 degrees C, saving energy.

Use Eco friendly detergents.

Eco-branded detergents use plant-based rather than oil-based ingredients and they do not contain phosphates, which cause harm if released into water courses in large amounts. People with sensitive skin will appreciate these detergents as they are less likely to cause skin irritation. At the moment these products will not save money, only the planet.

Replace your old machine.

Energy efficiency ratings for new machines now go up to A++ for the most energy efficient. Fuzzy logic technology senses what is going on in the machine and adjusts water, temperature, detergent and spin speeds for the best and most efficient wash. If you must tumble dry, then opt for a washer with a high spin speed to lessen the drying load. Some machines boast a “bubble” wash system to improve wash performance and “nano-silver” technology to kill bacteria so lower temperatures can be used. Steam is used by some for energy efficiency and killing bacteria. Watch out too for the new generation of washing machines supposed to be launched by the end of this year. The technology involved has been developed over a period of 30 years at Leeds University. Clothes are first dampened then loaded into the machine there small plastic beads act as the cleaning agent. The beads are then removed and can be re-used many times. Much less water, electricity and detergent is required than with conventional machines and we get to save the planet.

The Miele S7 vacuum cleaner rocks

We see quite a few conversations on Miele vacuum cleaners here at Forever Better. However this latest recommendation isn’t so much of a conversation, more a statement.

It comes from Daniel of DanielMiessler.com,

“Susan’s latest obsession. The Miele S7. It rocks, so I hear.”

Daniel’s link goes to the Miele US site, but if you want to have a look at the S7 on these green and pleasant shores it can be found on the UK site too.

Do you own a S7? Let us know what you think…

Miele appliances praised on Boards.IE

Miele appliances are held in high regard by Crossmolinalad, something he has expressed on Boards.IE.

The thread was started by Aldente who is looking to invest in an induction hob and a wall-mounted extractor. They are keen to hear of any recommendations or experiences of various brands to help inform their choice. They do express a preference for German appliances, but are aware that they are expensive. Crossmolinalad offers the following advice,

“Always bought everything Miele = expensive, but washing machine is now 15 years old and still working without ever needing a repair. Bought kitchen stuff two years ago in Germany, rented a van drove to Germany and bought the lot there.”

Road-trip! It might be a little extreme for most, Aldente included, but the advice was still well received. If you want to get involved the full thread is here.

Cat adoption leads to Miele vacuum recommendation

At Money Saving Expert there is a heart-warming conversation on the plight of a cat. The story has ended happily with the moggy being adopted by the threads original poster, Screamer.

The new addition, a long haired feline by the name of Izzy, was causing a little concern to Screamer’s other half however, especially when it came to the issue of pet hair around the house. This is where SnowyOwl stepped in with some advice, offering not only products for grooming but also the following,

“Also I have a Miele Cat and Dog vacuum cleaner. It’s good – has an excellent attachment for getting cat hairs off furniture, and has an attachment for getting hairs out of carpet.”

Izzy – the cat in question

Has a Miele Cat and Dog vacuum helped with your pet hair problems? If so, let us know your thoughts in the comments below.