7 Appliance Features That Make Life Easier
Fri Jul 25 2025
When it comes to household appliances, it's the little things that can make a big difference. Modern features are designed to save time, reduce stress, and add convenience to your daily routine. Whether you're upgrading your kitchen or laundry room, these seven appliance features can help streamline your chores, cut down on energy use, and make your home feel more functional and comfortable.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Smart appliances with Wi-Fi capabilities give you more control over your home, right from your smartphone or voice assistant. Imagine preheating your smart oven from the grocery store, receiving a ping when your Wi-Fi-enabled dishwasher is done, or checking your refrigerator’s temperature while you're on vacation. Many apps also offer maintenance reminders and energy usage tracking, helping you stay on top of performance.
Why it matters: Wi-Fi connectivity turns your appliances into helpful, hands-off assistants that simplify daily tasks and give you more flexibility.
Steam Cleaning
Steam features in appliances like ovens, dishwashers, and washing machines make deep cleaning easier and gentler. Steam loosens baked-on messes, reduces the need for scrubbing, and can sanitize surfaces without the use of harsh chemicals. In washers, steam cycles help reduce wrinkles and odors, saving time on ironing and freshening clothes between washes.
Why it matters: Steam cycles are eco-friendly and ideal for delicate items, quick touch-ups, or deep sanitizing, perfect for busy households.
Third Rack Dishwashers
A dishwasher with a third rack adds valuable real estate to your dishwasher. It’s perfect for flatware, spatulas, lids, and small bowls and other items that typically occupy space in the lower racks. This extra level helps prevent overcrowding and improves cleaning performance by giving every item enough space.
Why it matters: Better organization means more efficient loads and fewer dishes left behind. It’s a small change that makes a big difference.
Induction Cooking
Induction cooktops use electromagnetic energy to heat your pots and pans directly. No open flames or hot coils. They’re faster than traditional gas or electric burners and provide ultra-precise temperature control. Plus, the cooktop itself stays cooler, making cleanup safer and easier.
Why it matters: Faster cooking, less mess, and more control, induction cooking is perfect for busy weeknights and culinary precision alike.
Sensor Drying in Dryers
Dryers with sensor drying take the guesswork out of laundry. By detecting moisture levels in your clothes, your dryer automatically adjusts the drying time to prevent overdrying or damp results. It’s more efficient and gentler on fabrics.
Why it matters: Save energy, protect your clothes, and avoid rewashing or overdrying. This feature is especially helpful for mixed fabric loads.
Adjustable Refrigerator Storage
Modern refrigerators offer a range of customizable storage options, including sliding shelves, fold-away compartments, adjustable door bins, and even temperature-controlled drawers. You can make room for party platters, tall bottles, or a week’s worth of meal prep containers.
Why it matters: Flexibility in your fridge layout means less food waste, easier organization, and quicker access to your most frequently used items.
Air Fry Oven Settings
Air fry technology is now built into many wall ovens and ranges, allowing you to enjoy your favorite crispy foods with less oil. Whether you're cooking chicken wings, veggies, or frozen snacks, air fry mode delivers crunch without cluttering your counter with another small appliance.
Why it matters: It saves space, speeds up cooking, and makes healthier meals easy. It’s a favorite for busy families and weekend entertainers alike.
Shop For New Appliances at Metro Appliances & More
At Metro Appliances & More, we carry the latest appliances packed with features designed to simplify your day. Our experts can help you find the right models that match your lifestyle, needs, and budget.
Contact us or visit one of our appliance stores in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, or Oklahoma to explore these features in action, or browse our selection online for the latest in kitchen and laundry innovation. Browse our appliances online, including refrigerators, laundry appliances, dishwashers, outdoor grills, and more.
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FAQs About Appliance Features
1. Do steam cleaning features work as well as traditional cleaning methods?
Yes. Steam is highly effective at loosening grime and sanitizing, often without harsh chemicals. It's also gentler on delicate items.
2. Are third rack dishwashers worth it?
Absolutely. They improve organization, maximize space, and help dishes come out cleaner by preventing overcrowding.
3. Can I use regular cookware on an induction cooktop?
Only magnetic cookware will work with induction. If a magnet sticks to the bottom of your pan, it’s compatible.
4. Does sensor drying really save energy?
Yes. By adjusting cycle times to the moisture level, sensor drying avoids overuse of energy and prevents wear on your clothing.