Today’s washing machines are considerably more economical than in years past, especially when it comes to the amount of electricity and water it takes for them to run. But for all the advancements made thus far, none have offered the efficiency of the new Xeros washing machine. Developed by Stephen Burkinshaw at the University of Leeds, this particular machine uses specially formulated nylon polymer beads in place of gallons of water. The beads are tasked with sucking away dirt and grease from the user’s clothing, and can be used up to 100 times (estimated to be six months...