Modern washing machines come with more features than ever before. Some genuinely make life easier, while others can feel like marketing buzzwords.
One feature that often catches shoppers’ attention is i-DOS. It’s usually printed clearly on the front of certain machines — but what does it actually do? And is it something you really need?
Let’s take a closer look at whether i-DOS is a fad… or a genuinely useful function.
What is i-DOS?
i-DOS stands for intelligent dosing.
It’s a feature found on selected Bosch washing machines that automatically measures and dispenses the correct amount of detergent and fabric softener for each wash.
Instead of pouring detergent in manually every time, the washing machine calculates exactly how much is needed based on load size, fabric type and level of soiling.
The aim is simple: better wash results with less waste.
How does i-DOS work day to day?
Despite sounding technical, i-DOS is very easy to use.
You fill the detergent and softener compartments once.
The machine stores the liquid internally.
Sensors assess each wash.
The exact amount needed is released automatically.
Depending on how often you wash, one fill can last up to 20 washes.
There’s no measuring, no spills and no guesswork.
Honestly, does detergent really even matter?
Many people assume that using more detergent means cleaner clothes, but the opposite is often true.
Overdosing detergent can lead to residue left on clothes, stiff or dull fabrics, build-up inside the washing machine and unnecessary detergent waste.
i-DOS prevents this by ensuring each wash gets only what it needs.
The real benefits of i-DOS
When used regularly, i-DOS offers several practical advantages.
Reduced detergent usage, often up to 30–40% less.
More consistent cleaning results.
Less wear on fabrics.
Lower long-term running costs.
More sustainable washing.
A simpler, hands-off routine.
Fad or function?
Verdict: a function... for the right household.
i-DOS is worth considering if you wash frequently, mainly use liquid detergent, value convenience and consistency, or are already looking at a mid- to higher-range washing machine.
It may be less important if you prefer powder detergent, wash infrequently or are working to a tight budget.
It’s not essential, but for many households it becomes a feature they wouldn’t want to be without.
It’s not a flashy feature — it just quietly improves everyday washing.
Who benefits most from i-DOS washing machines?
i-DOS is particularly useful for families with regular laundry loads, busy households, people upgrading from older machines and anyone looking to reduce waste without extra effort.
Once it’s set up, most users barely think about it again — which is usually a sign of good design.
Final thoughts
The i-DOS feature isn’t about adding complexity. It’s about removing guesswork.
By automatically dosing detergent correctly, it helps save money, reduce waste and keep clothes in better condition over time.
At Redmond Electric, we stock a wide range of washing machines, both with and without i-DOS, so you can choose the model that best suits your home, habits and budget.
So next time you see i-DOS on a washing machine, you’ll know it’s not just a buzzword — it’s a feature designed to make everyday laundry simpler.
Check out our most popular i-DOS machine: