The new Xeros washing machine cleans clothes with only 10% of the water need from a regular washing machine and could reduce household bills by 30%.

The key to the nearly waterless washing machine is tiny, nylon beads that help eliminate stains with a minimum of liquid. The 3mm-long beads are capable of being used for hundreds of cycles.

The washing machine pours the beads into the washing drum when the clothes have been slightly moistened. They are small enough to get into every crevice and remove dirt and stains. Then when the cycle is done the tiny beads are drained out just like water would.

The Xeros waterless machine could hit the market as soon as 2011. No price has been set yet.

Source: Guardian