Henkel’s IoT Laundry Concept May Hit Retail in 2-3 Years

Will shoppers buy three bottles of laundry detergent instead of one if it means a better and more eco-friendly experience? Henkel thinks they might. 

The CPG visited the CES show in Las Vegas this month in search of retail and manufacturing partners for an emerging IoT laundry ecosystem concept. In development for almost a decade, the concept hinges upon the benefits of separating detergent chemistry for more effective and efficient cleaning. 

A prototype on display at CES featured three brightly colored plastic containers about 6 inches long and 4 inches wide that could be inserted into the top panel of a washing machine. (Photographs weren’t permitted.) 

Rather than having cleaning agents, structuring polymers, and fragrances competing in one detergent bottle, they’re separated and dispensed at more precise stages in the wash cycle, Frank Meyer, Henkel chief technology officer, consumer brands, told CGT. 

Related: See how Henkel is incorporating smart codes for more accessible packaging

Cleaning agents are dispensed in the beginning to remove stains, while fragrances release at the end. During today’s current washing method, fragrances are compromised during the mixing process, and “only a fraction of what we put in the product really arrives at the laundry.”

There are sustainability benefits at play: This more precise method uses 20% less chemistry in the cleaning process, and it employs a gentler washing method, which can extend a garment’s life. It also uses less water and energy than a traditional laundry process, according to Meyer.