At IFA Berlin 2024, last September, Miele marked its 125th anniversary with a showcase of more than 270 products, blending legacy craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation. While domestic appliances drew attention for their sleek design and smart features, it was Miele’s professional laundry technology that truly signalled a shift in how commercial sectors – from hospitality to healthcare – can embrace sustainability, precision and textile care.
InfinityCare Drum: A ribless leap forward
The headline innovation was the InfinityCare Honeycomb Drum, the world’s first ribless washing drum, designed to minimise textile wear and extend garment life. Traditionally, drum ribs agitate laundry to ensure thorough cleaning, but they also cause mechanical strain, leading to fabric damage over time.
Miele’s engineers have solved this dilemma by developing an AI-driven pendulum motion, which gently rotates laundry without the need for ribs. This motion adapts dynamically to load size and fabric type, offering tailored care for everything from delicate silks to industrial-grade linens.
For professional users, ie: hotels, care homes, and medical facilities – this means longer textile lifespan, reducing replacement costs; improved hygiene without compromising fabric integrity; lower energy consumption through frictionless operation.
Commercial-grade engineering meets sustainability
Miele’s professional laundry systems are built for high throughput and durability, tested to last the equivalent of 20 years of use. At IFA, the company reinforced its commitment to circularity with pilot projects across five countries, testing consumer acceptance of refurbished washing machines and reconditioned electronic modules as alternatives to new spare parts.
Initial results show strong support for circular appliances, especially in commercial settings where cost-efficiency and environmental impact are key decision drivers.
Speed and efficiency without compromise
The new PowerWash system delivers A+++ rated results in under 49 minutes, ideal for professional environments where turnaround time is critical. Meanwhile, EcoSpeed tumble dryers use heat pump technology to cut drying costs while maintaining performance which is an essential feature for energy-conscious businesses.
The T2 Nova Edition dryer, for example, can dry up to 4kg of wool in just 49 minutes using a specialized WoolDry programme. This is particularly valuable for boutique hotels and spas where luxury textiles require gentle yet efficient care.
Smart control for smarter operations
Miele’s professional appliances now integrate smart diagnostics and remote control via the Miele app. Features like AI diagnostics reduce unnecessary service calls; TwinDos® automatic detergent dosing saves up to 40 per cent on detergent use; and MotionReact and ComfortOpen enable hands-free operation – ideal for busy laundry rooms.
These smart features not only streamline operations but also support predictive maintenance, helping facilities avoid costly downtime.
Circularity and design thinking
One of the most forward-looking concepts unveiled was a prototype appliance made almost entirely from recycled materials, designed for full reintegration into the material cycle. This aligns with Miele’s broader sustainability goals and offers a glimpse into the future of modular, repair-friendly commercial appliances.
In parallel, Miele’s 125 Gala Edition models offer extended warranties and enhanced features, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to longevity and lifecycle value, a crucial consideration for procurement teams in commercial sectors.
Strategic implications for professional sectors
For industries like hospitality, healthcare, and education, Miele’s latest innovations offer reduced operational costs through energy and detergent savings; enhanced textile care, preserving brand standards and guest satisfaction; sustainability credentials that align with ESG goals and public procurement frameworks.
As sustainability becomes a competitive differentiator, Miele’s professional range positions itself not just as a supplier, but also as a strategic partner in responsible operations and innovation. Alongside the sustainability credentials the commercial impact on all the above is found through enhanced brand standards through superior textile care and a reduction in total cost of ownership via energy savings and extended appliance lifespan.
If you’re interested in how Miele can have an impact on your business, give Liver Laundry a call today on their telephone number: 0151 263 7451.
