Washing machine without detergent set to roll

London: An environment-friendly washing machine that cleans clothes without detergent will be launched next year.

The WasH20 passes an electric current through the water used in the cycle to create electrically charged atoms that take over the role of washing powder, liquid or tablets.

Researchers at the Chinese company Haier claim that their invention is "green" and cleans around 25 per cent more effectively than current models.

Petroleum-based chemicals in traditional washing detergents pass via sewers into rivers and seas.

They do not completely degrade, causing pollutants to build up and damaging the natural habitats of plants and animals.

About 200,000 of the detergent-free washing machines have been sold since it was launched in China last year. It is due to be in the shops in France in November, and then in the UK early next year.

It works by electrolysing water before the wash cycle begins so that by the time it comes into contact with clothes it contains ions - electrically charged atoms - capable of removing dirt.

Gilles Montrichard, of Haier France, said: "The electrolysis process causes a separation of the water into ions, one of which removes the dirt while the other acts like bleach. They acidify the water, so sterilising the clothes."

The company, however, admitted a detergent-free wash is not as effective for certain stubborn stains such as those caused by contact with grass or coffee.