ABSTRACT
Globalization and profit maximization force companies to introduce their products in many different regions of the world. Only an awareness of the local circum stances, the needs and desires of the local consumers , their habits and rituals, as well as the local restrictions and limitations will make their efforts a success. This presentation gives an overview of the different washing cultures worldwide to find out if innovations are compatible with existing cultural habits . It appeared that washing machines are used in Europe, Australia and parts of Asia, Africa and America differently. In some cultures the washing machine is placed on wheels to be transportable within the house, sometimes it is positioned on the balcony or in narrow spaces. The content of washing textiles differs and therefore the require ments. Circumstances differ, is washing powder affordable, electricity or water available. This paper shall give an overview about doing the laundry around the world and its results for the design process.
