The very early beginners of the washing machine started in 1691 when the first English patent was issued under the category "washing and wringing machines" It wasn't until 1752 that an early drawing appeared in "The Gentlemen's Magazine" which was an English publication from Germany.
Then in 1782 Henry Sidgier was issued a British patent for his rotating drum washer.
The Electric washing machine came along in around 1904 when Louis Goldenberg who worked for the Form Motor Company.
By 1928 Electric washing machines were selling 1 million units a year, In 1934 the first laundrette opened in Texas with the use of coin slots and commercial laundry equipment was first produced.
Over the Second World War the production of washing machines stopped yet research continued. At this point over 60% of homes in America had a washing machine.
By the 1950’s Several manufacturers were producing these auto or at least semi automatic machines and also the first large washing machines were being produced for the commercial industry.
Front loading machines became the industry standard for commerical washing machines in Europe in the 1970’s although different speeds of machines have been developed ranging from 360 to 200RPM, In the US  top loading machines are much more commonly used, many believe the reason for this difference is the fact that many Europeans like prefer integrate their machines under worktops.
The modern washing machines are a million miles away from the early models, they now have child locks, delayed timing and aquastop which detects water leakage and now these machines are far cheaper and far more environmentally friendly as they now have to conform to EU standards.
It has been a constant battle to try and find solutions to making equipment like washing machines more economical for everyone. Even back in the 40's they were focused on delivering waterless machines that produced far less energy
or “airwash” technology which is being pioneered in Japan.