Hisense's high-tech 5S washer-dryer has auto dosing and app control - so can it keep up in a busy home with a big laundry load? We put it to the test
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Between working in the office, socialising with friends, sports classes and family functions, I get through a mountain of clothes every week, which means I’m constantly having to turn on my machine to wash sweaty gym clothes and delicate garments.
Now, without sounding melodramatic, I have been praying for a way to make this mundane chore a little more bearable and after months of wishing, it finally happened.
I got my hands on the Hisense 5S Series Auto Dosing washer-dryer.
Fill the machine once with detergent and it uses smart dosing tech to add just the right amount of washing liquid to your load for up to 24 washes. This means less refilling and you never have to guess how much or how little detergent your laundry needs.
I have been testing supermarket products and home appliances for a long time. However, this is my first time testing a washer-dryer and this one comes with a multitude of features designed to make a daily task stress-free, quick and energy-efficient.
Hisense 5S Series Auto Dosing Washer-Dryer
The ConnectLife app allows for remote management of the HISENSE 5S Series
Hisense 5S Series Auto Dosing washer-dryer
What we love
- Wi-FiConnectLife app for remote management
- FeatureAuto-dosing up to 24 washes
- Energy-savingHighest energy level - rated A
What could be better
- DryerCost to run the tumble dryer
Our verdict
The versatility of the Hisense 5S Series Auto Dosing washer-dryer is impressive. For such a simple design, it really does pack a punch when it comes to duality. Often, with a washer-dryer, one element or the other is stronger; at least that has been my experience until now. Here, there are no winners or losers, only clothes that leave the tumbler fresh and dry in less time.
Being someone who loves simplicity, I appreciate having things spelled out for me. Therefore, I pay close attention to the descriptions for each dial setting: Cotton Dry, Synthetic Dry, Baby Care, Quick 15/ Washer/Dryer 60 etc. - all easily identifiable even without the handy manual.
For a busy household like mine, the auto-dose function is invaluable, as it limits the time it takes to refill the detergent container, and the machine will only use the specific amount needed for a load. That said, auto-dosing is optional, and you can choose to set how much solvent you want in your wash.
The washing function operates at a low cost, and the Eco 40-60 cycle is good at removing stains. Yet the biggest drawback is the cost to run the tumble dryer. However, for me, the convenience of having one multifunctional machine outweighs the operating expense.
As for the smart app, at first I found it a little overwhelming due to the volume of settings, and it took me a few minutes to figure out the best option. But the built-in Wi-Fi allows for remote control and monitoring, which is useful.
Overall, the auto-detergent dispensing and smart connectivity make this washer-dryer a bargain given the number of features available.
How we test
I tested the Hisense 5S Series Auto Dosing washer-dryer over a month, using it for typical laundry tasks. I considered key performance elements including how clean my clothes felt, if there was any shrinkage, general capacity, stain removal, speed and energy efficiency.
In addition, I assessed modern features like Hisense's auto-dose setting, sensor drying, Wi-FI and quick washing to evaluate whether the machine is well-designed and lives up to its claims.
Read more about how we test home appliances at the Daily Mail.
Hisense 5S Series Auto Dosing Washer-Dryer review
Performance
Unlike most machines, I found the Hisense 5S washer-dryer to be relatively quite in operation.
The cold wash was surprisingly powerful and kept clothing bright and protected, while at the same time using significantly less electricity.
Meanwhile, the adjustable drying temperature put me in full control of my fabric care, reducing the risk of damage to delicates and protecting garments from shrinking.
However, settings can be limiting in areas. For instance, when in drying mode, the ability to lower the spin speed is disabled and the full range of smart functions can only be accessed on the ConnectLife app, which is restrictive for those who don't want to use the app - though you can get by perfectly fine without it.
The money-conscious will be pleased to know the wash cycle has the highest energy level (rated A). Drying class is D, which is not as good but is quite common for most combination washer-dryers.
Size
The Hisense WD5S1045BB has an impressive 10.5kg wash capacity and 6kg for drying. This unit’s height is 84.5cm, while the width is 59.5cm and the depth is 59cm.
Ease of use
A feature I absolutely love is the remote access via the ConnectLife app that can be accessed when you scan the barcode on the front of the machine. The application allows me to select the washing modes I want and override any defaults, such as the spin speed or washing temperature.
The app also enabled me to choose the fabric type and dry setting. Then it was over to the machine to decide the best temperature and time to wash my clothes.
A feature I found most useful on the app was the water/electricity breakdown, as I could track the cost of my laundry. Plus, I got sent alerts straight to my phone or smart watch through the app.
It would be brilliant if the machine could be switched on/off via the app, rather than requiring manual control, though.
Hisense 5S series settings include Cotton Dry, Synthetic Dry, Baby Care, Quick 15 etc.
Value for money
As an A-rated wash, this model is considered to use the least electricity and water, saving money on bills. What's more, with space for 10.5kg of washing, the Hisense 5S is good for families with a lot of laundry, as well as households that want to clean larger items, such as duvets.
The dryer is only 6kg, though and is as big as you can get for a standard washer-dryer combo. This isn't ideal if you want to dry a lot of washing all at once, therefore it might not make the most financial sense for you. Instead, a standalone dryer would be better.
The washer-dryer switches off by itself, which is great for saving energy. However, I feel the standby could be longer or adjustable to give the user more control.
Hisense 5S Series Auto Dosing washer-dryer
How does it compare to similar products?
The washing function is capable of removing mud marks, power paint, cooking oil, and gravy but struggles to completely banish red wine stains and some juice marks. In comparison, Samsung Ecobubble is said to be one of the leading washer-dryers for stain removal.
Where size is a factor, the Hisense beats the Samsung Ecobubble and comparable machines with its 10.5kg drum capacity.
Against a premium brand such as Miele, Hisense is only slightly louder to run and Miele is favoured more for longevity. Nonetheless, for the price point, the Hisense is durable and comes with a 5-year warranty.
Hisense's auto-dosing adds the right amount of cleaner to your load for up to 24 washes
How does it rate online?
Customers are pleasantly surprised by the capabilities of this Hisense washer-dryer, given its affordability. The majority of users are satisfied with the smart app, while others find it takes some time to get used to.
All customers highlight the generous drum capacity for big loads and bedding cycles. Users praise the auto-dosing feature for making laundry day that little bit faster.
Why trust us
Shanique has been testing products and writing reviews for 10 years. With specialisms in kitchen appliances and supermarket staples, she has tested everything from kettles to air fryers and beauty supplies.
Her reviews are honest and realistic, to ensure you have all the information you need to make the right purchase decision.
FAQs
What is auto-drying?
Auto‑drying uses built-in sensors to detect how much moisture remains in your clothes. Instead of you guessing a time or running the dryer longer than needed, the machine stops automatically when items are dry.
How do you set the child lock on the Hisense 5S Series?
To set the child lock, hold ‘Temp’ and ‘Spin’ at the same time for roughly 15 seconds or until you hear the jingle that signals the child lock has been activated.
How do you switch off the sound/beep on the Hisense 5S Series?
Together, click on ‘Spin’ and ‘Dry’ for a moment - less than 20 seconds - to turn off the beep function.
