The absolute specialists for mops and cloths: The New Benchmark Machines, connectivity-enabled laundry machines from Miele, are set to replace the successful models from the Benchmark generation in June 2021 – and offer considerably more space for cleaning textiles. And there are also right-sized dryers to match the washing machines from this model series, with load capacities of between 12 kg and 20 kg. The machines are the ideal foundation on which to build efficient on-premise laundries.

The new portfolio includes models offered under the familiar name MopStar and featuring iron grey fronts for the very first time (Performance series). Across all standard programmes as well as those with thermal disinfection, load capacity has been increased by approximately a third: up to 167 mops or 625 cloths weighing 16 g each can now be cleaned in the largest machines. This enhancement alone reduces costs for electricity, water, cleaning agents and disinfectants, yet without impact on cycle times.

The heart and soul of the machines are new controls which allow programme customisation. Depending on the application, M Touch Pro Plus controls with their full touch colour display can, for example, be set to offer a full complement of programmes and parameters or to be incredibly simple – in more than 30 languages. Coloured frames make it easy to select programmes – for instance, users can select red ones for the red cloths generally used to clean sanitary facilities and which require disinfection. The smooth, easy-to-clean display even responds to gloved hands.

Easy to adjust programmes before they start

Using the Extras menu option, programmes can be adjusted before they are started – for example, the residual moisture can be altered for mops and cloths that are soaked with cleaning agent and disinfectant during the wash cycle so that they are immediately ready for use again afterwards. The time the washing machine starts can also be preprogrammed. An integral part of all cycles for mops and other cleaning textiles continues to be the patented Miele pre-spin. Before the wash process starts, it spins coarse soil and dirty water out of the mops so that more fresh water be absorbed during the main wash.

All new Benchmark machines are connectivity-enabled and ready to embrace future-proof solutions such as the new digital Miele MOVE portal. This allows launderers to receive notifications when a machine is ready for unloading, browse operating data and, if required, gain fast access to Miele Service, to name but a few examples (cf. Press release No. 041/2021). Connection to dispensing systems is also very beneficial.

Door locked at the touch of a fingertip

Compared with the current model generation, operating washing machines and dryers is now considerably simpler. Take for example the electro-mechanical OneFingerTouch door lock which – thanks to a new door handle design – is now even easier to operate: slight pressure applied by the tip of a finger is sufficient to close and lock the 415 mm door and start a programme. Once a programme ends, the door can be opened again just as easily. On the dryers, the door handle has been optimised and the size of the door handle recess increased for simple and ergonomic operation.

A further increase in user convenience comes in the form of exceptionally smooth-running washing machines, even when fully loaded. This is guaranteed by a strong and efficient main drive motor and a new 3D imbalance sensor. The latter monitors rotation during the ramp-up to full speed and evaluates the data gathered. Spin speeds are constantly and automatically adjusted to ensure that damp and heavy items are ideally distributed around the patented Mark 2 honeycomb drum. Integrated automatic load control adjusts water intake to the load in hand, simultaneously aligning programme running times and consumption.

Dryers with useful extras

A dryer proves to be a valuable addition if cleaning textiles are to be stored away rather than used again straight away. The largest model with electric heating is designed for loads of up to 44 kg. All dryers also feature a new optional function which, when activated, controls the air circulation to prevent light textiles such as cloths from sticking to the door, thereby ensuring uniform drying.

In some dryers, a percentage of the process air is returned to the drying process by AirRecycling Flex, a further Miele development on the previous AirRecycling Plus system. In the new system, the air paths are dynamically adapted by smart controls to suit current operating conditions. This ensures perfect drying results combined with low energy consumption, shorter drying cycles and the gentler treatment of mops and cloths. Programme running times are reduced approximately by a further 4 %.

Optimised cycles also boost the durability of all models. As on previous generations, The New Benchmark makes exclusive use of high-quality materials such as stainless steel and cast iron that are able to live up to the constant high levels of strain in commercial laundries. These machines passed endurance tests to ensure 30,000 and 20,000 hours of operation for washing machines and dryers respectively.

Company profile: Miele is the world's leading manufacturer of premium domestic appliances including cooking, baking and steam-cooking appliances, refrigeration products, coffee makers, dishwashers and laundry and floor care products. Their product portfolio also includes dishwashers, air purifiers, washing machines and tumble dryers for commercial use as well as washer-disinfectors and sterilisers for use in medical and laboratory applications (Miele Professional). Founded in 1899, the company has eight production plants in Germany, one each in Austria, the Czech Republic, China, Romania and Poland as well as two production plants belonging to its Italian medical technology subsidiary Steelco. Sales in the 2020 business year amounted to around € 4.5 bn (thereof 29.5% in Germany). Miele is represented with its own sales subsidiaries and via importers in almost 100 countries/regions. Throughout the world, the family-run enterprise, now in its fourth generation, employs a workforce of around 20,900, of which approx. 11,050 employees work in Germany. The company has its headquarters in Gütersloh in Westphalia.