Dyson is venturing into new territory with its latest product, the Wash G1, marking a shift from its traditional vacuum technology to a hard-floor cleaner that emphasizes high-speed rollers, water, and nylon bristles over suction. Set to hit the market later this year with a price tag of $700/ £600, it positions itself below Dyson’s premium Gen 5 vacuum. My experience with the Wash G1 took place at Dyson’s headquarters, located a few hours west of London, UK.
With the global trend moving towards more hard floors and fewer carpets in homes, Dyson recognized the need for a more effective cleaning solution. Traditional mopping methods, which can smear and streak, haven’t seen significant advancement, prompting Dyson to introduce a novel approach that keeps fresh and dirty water separate. The Wash G1 integrates dual microfiber rollers and a system that pulls dirty water into a separate container, a concept partially explored in Dyson’s V15 Detect Submarine with its smaller water compartments.
The G1’s design facilitates the segregation of clean and dirty water, employing mechanical action through its rollers to remove stains and debris. The opposing rotation of these rollers not only lifts dirt but also creates a sensation of floating, enhancing the user experience. Microfiber and nylon components work in tandem to absorb liquids and capture larger particles, with the entire dirty water extraction process designed to prevent contamination of the machine’s internal components.
Dyson has equipped the Wash G1 with 26 hydration points for the rollers, guaranteeing adequate moisture for cleaning tasks equivalent to the area of a tennis court. Users can adjust the device’s hydration levels, including a max setting for tackling tough stains, without impacting battery life significantly. To ensure comprehensive cleaning, Dyson repositioned the roller’s engines, enabling closer access to walls and edges.
The G1 also includes a self-cleaning mechanism, utilizing part of the clean water supply to maintain its brushes and rollers. While it lacks a heating feature, the design ensures minimal moisture retention post-cleaning. Its docking and charging solution deviates from Dyson’s customary designs, opting instead for a flat, wall-pluggable base.
Handling the clean water tank proved to be straightforward, accentuating the ease of maintenance. Conversely, the visibility of the dirty water might not appeal to all users, suggesting a potential area for design refinement. Moreover, Dyson’s system for separating liquid from solid waste minimizes the formation of sludge, thereby prolonging the cleanliness of both the floors and the machine itself.
Although my initial test run highlighted some streaking issues, it’s important to note that these outcomes could vary based on flooring type and the condition of the surface being cleaned. With the UK launch slated for the fall and a US release to follow, there remains time for Dyson to address any lingering concerns. My trial on a reflective marble surface may have amplified these concerns, suggesting different results on more common flooring materials.
As Dyson’s inaugural venture into dedicated hard floor cleaning unfolds, questions about the efficiency and capacity of the filtration system linger. Further insight is anticipated as we approach the official launch date.
