Gen Z are more likely to view coffee machines, hair tongs and air fryers as essential items compared to older generations, according to recent research.
A survey of 2,000 adults revealed the varying importance different generations place on household appliances and which ones they use first thing in the morning.
For coffee-loving Gen Z, less than half considered their machine a luxury item, compared to a staggering 64% of both Boomers and Gen X. The younger generation is also less likely to consider hair tongs and air fryers as luxuries compared to the older generations.
However, it’s clear which ever appliance they’re using brits love thier hot drinks. Half of all adults polled named the kettle as the first thing they use in the morning – the fridge was low on the list at 11%.
The Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliances (AMDEA) commissioned the research to encourage people to register their devices during Register My Appliance Week.
CEO Paul Hide remarked: “We are clearly a nation of appliance lovers, who appreciate the transformative effect they’ve had on our lives and who are excited by the future of smart tech, especially the younger generations.”
However, he highlighted a significant oversight: “People are missing out on an important safety benefit – an estimated 40 million large appliances are unregistered, which means they are untraceable if a safety repair is needed.”
The survey revealed that washing machines top the list of must-have appliances for all age groups, with 62 per cent saying they can’t do without it. Next in line were fridges at 59 per cent, ovens at 32 per cent, and freezers at 29 per cent.
In terms of purchasing decisions, a resounding 80 per cent of adults consider energy efficiency crucial, and 65 per cent vet the eco-friendly pedigree of an appliance before they spend their money.