An ultrasonic machine is a portable device that, according to the manufacturer's promise, washes in the same way as large household appliances. Disputes about these devices have been going on for probably 10 years since their appearance on the market. It seems that only the lazy one has not spoken out on the topic that such machines do not do anything much, and it is many times faster and easier to wash things by hand. But since a stable demand for them remains, it is worthwhile to figure out how such machines work, and which one is better to buy.
An ultrasonic machine is a small, mains-operated device, consisting of a plastic case and a piezoceramic element.Manufacturers of machines in the description of their devices explain how a plastic “tablet” (well, or a device the size of a palm) washes fabric. When you connect a mini-machine to a power outlet, the current passing through the converter is transformed into high-frequency oscillations (the same ultrasound).
In simple words, under the action of ultrasound, water molecules increase the speed, the frequency of changing the direction of movement. When using washing powder, about the same thing happens - millions of microbubbles are formed, which reduce the adhesion of dirt to the fabric and simplify the removal of stains and stubborn dirt. As advantages, the same manufacturer indicates the absence of friction (which seems to be obvious), disinfection, preservation of the original shape and color of things.
On the one hand, everything is correct - ultrasound is really used in industry and medicine. For descaling steam boilers or brushing teeth. So everything is logical here - if ultrasound is able to remove tartar, then coping with a ketchup stain is a trifling matter for him. But in fact, everything is far from being so rosy. The power of professional cleaners is many times greater than that of household devices. Accordingly, the efficiency of the latter is several times less.
So don't expect any miracle from her. As a replacement for an automatic typewriter, it is definitely not suitable. But it is quite possible to take a portable device with you on vacation - to freshen up T-shirts, shorts, children's things she is quite capable of. It can also be used for washing delicate fabrics, lace underwear, sportswear made of membrane (if the label indicates the possibility of hand washing).
Now about disinfection. Some manufacturers claim that ultrasound kills pathogenic bacteria.What these claims are based on is not very clear; no serious studies have been conducted on this subject.
Standard instructions included. It usually contains tips on what temperature to wash, which side to put the device on the linen. But here are some proven tips from users:
By the way, ultrasonic machines do a good job with old stains from burnt food on the bottom of pots and pans. Just pour some water into the container and leave the device for a couple of hours - the soot will come off with a film.
And lastly, about washing vegetables and fruits. Some brands also indicate this option as an advantage. No ultrasound can cope with a very dirty, freshly dug potato - you have to wash it by hand. And it is impossible to understand whether the machine removed any bacteria from conditionally clean apples. So it's definitely not worth paying attention to such promises.
This is exactly the case when it is better to look at user reviews, since the parameters for all models are plus or minus the same, as well as product descriptions. Reviews should pay attention to:
Chinese models usually have two built-in modes. The first is ultrasound, the second is the so-called bubble, replaced every minute. Judging by the reviews, they wash better. Yes, they have more power.
"Turbine" with a round body and models with special effects, remote control should not be considered at all.The device will honestly create the appearance of work, slightly accelerating the water, making noise like some kind of overall industrial unit, but it will not wash anything at all. If you watch video reviews, then such machines hardly “rotate” a pair of socks or handkerchiefs, not to mention the same T-shirt. If a button is accidentally “tightened” into the body, the machine will break.
But the assessment of the quality of washing is a subjective matter. Someone likes the effect, someone does not see the difference between “before” and “after” washing at all. By the way, in many of these reviews, many carefully report that the machine seems to be working, because the water has changed color.
Now a little about prices. It is better not to take Russian brands on Aliexpress and, conversely, Chinese brands on Russian marketplaces. Prices in both cases are inflated by 30-40 percent. Improved versions of the Retona or Cinderella cost more, but differ only in the body shape. The technical parameters are the same for both new and old models.
The main plus is the small size, simplification of washing. In essence, an ultrasonic device is something like active soaking. The solution penetrates the fibers of the fabric faster, stains after manual processing are easier to wash.
The pluses include the fact that such devices do not require connection to the water supply, they consume about 120 times less electricity than automatic machines. It is not necessary to control their work, there are no risks that neighbors can be flooded due to a breakdown.
The same machine can clean jewelry - without friction, the use of special tools and the risk of leaving small scratches on the metal. Here the device works at 100% - there are a lot of confirming reviews.
Otherwise, this thing is not to say that it is indispensable.The linen in the basin will have to be turned over from time to time, the contaminated areas should be rubbed with hands, then rinsed and squeezed out also by hand. There is no difference with a mechanical washing machine, but the second one costs only twice as much, and is designed for loading up to 3 kg. And yes, it cleans better. Due to the mechanical effect on the fabric, it can cope with stains and dirt.
Speaking about the convenience of washing large items like blankets, jackets, down jackets, the manufacturer is clearly disingenuous. Just because you will have to rinse and wring out again manually - this is both a long time and not to say that it is convenient. The same goes for loud promises about restoring the original color, the integrity of the fibers - nothing like that, of course, the machine will do.
In general, a portable device is suitable as an auxiliary, and in no way as an alternative to an automatic machine.
From Newton. In a round case, with built-in galvanic isolation, which guarantees its complete safety. The machine is suitable for washing delicate, membrane fabrics. Judging by the reviews, it copes well with small dirt, stains. Virtually silent and completely safe. The latter, by the way, is confirmed by certificates.
Difficult stains will have to be rubbed by hand, but otherwise it’s a good option. Feedback on the device is only positive.
Price - 2480 rubles.
With one or two emitters from BIOS. It is positioned as a universal household appliance - you can wash things, clean jewelry, and wash pots and pans. The maximum allowable water temperature for washing solution is 70 degrees, power consumption is only 20 watts.
The manufacturer claims that the machine is suitable for washing large items, sneakers. Judging by the reviews, the capabilities of the device are greatly exaggerated. Suitable for washing underwear, but not for blankets, bedspreads, jackets. Does not remove serious dirt.
Price - up to 1600 rubles.
Supplied in a fabric case with an indicator that allows you to check the operation of the device. To understand whether the machine is working or not, just pour a little water into the recess on the case, place a miniature tablet indicator with a built-in diode in it and plug the device into a power outlet.
The rest is not much different from previous models. Unless, in the description, the manufacturer honestly indicates that Dune "will be a great addition to an automatic washing machine."
Price - 2200 rubles.
This is probably one of the first ultrasonic machines that appeared on the market. Small, with built-in protection against overheating, with an inscription on the case (it is also an indication of which side to put the device in the container).
Now there are already two models that differ in the design of the case. The first is the classic Reton in a closed case, the second is leaf-shaped, with holes in the top cover for free access of the soap solution to the plate.
Judging by the reviews, the machine is suitable for washing underwear, lightly soiled small items. It can remove fresh stains, but on condition that it will work for at least 2 hours. For kitchen towels, bed linen is not suitable - the power is not enough.
Price - 3000 rubles.
It looks like a miniature hookah. Not bad washes linen, socks, children's things, it can no longer cope with something larger. There are two built-in modes - bubble and ultrasound, which replace each other automatically.Charging via USB cable (included), controlled by remote control.
Well, a separate plus for honesty - no loud promises that the unit weighing 300 g washes blankets, rugs, and down jackets. According to the manufacturer, it is suitable for washing socks, underwear.
Price: 1400 - 2500 rubles.
It differs from all previous ones in design. It is installed vertically, fixed on the side of a plastic bucket. There is a built-in display with a timer - the maximum operating time is 15 minutes. Two built-in alternating modes, works from the socket. As for the sound - noisy, especially when changing modes.
It will cope not only with linen, but also with T-shirts, sportswear. The main thing is that a suitable container is at hand - according to the manufacturer's recommendation, it must be filled to a maximum of three quarters, otherwise water may splash during operation of the device.
Price - 4000 rubles.
To summarize, we get that a portable ultrasonic device has very limited capabilities, does not do miracles, does not wash stains. As well as not rinsing and not squeezing.As a camping option on vacation or at the dacha, it is suitable, as a replacement for a washing machine - no.