Japan invents ‘human washing machine’ that cleans and calms in 15 minutes

How the human washing machine works

The Human Washing Machine was developed by a company based in Osaka Science and looks like a cross between a bathtub and a car wash. The capsule has a reclining seat on which the user can sit during the 15-minute washing process.

Microbubbles and fine water vapor are distributed evenly across the body, while built-in sensors monitor vital signs to ensure safety. Soothing music and visual effects play at the same time. At the end of the cycle, users are automatically dried: there is no need to carry out a spin cycle as with conventional clothes washing machines.

According to company spokesperson Sachiko Maekura, the new machine not only cleans the body but also “washes the soul” by using sensors to monitor the user’s heart rate and vital functions throughout the process.

The concept of the human washing machine dates back to the Osaka World Expo in 1970. At that time, the company demonstrated a similar device, but it was not mass-produced. According to NDTV, the current design was inspired by the president of Sciencewho had seen the original machine as a child.

Exclusivity and high price

The Human Washing Machine is not intended for mass retail sales. According to the Japan Times, the price is around 60 million yen (roughly the equivalent of 385,000 US dollars).

Due to its complexity and novelty, only 50 units are initially produced. One of the first devices has already been sold to a hotel in Osaka, which plans to make it available to its customers. Electronics retailer Yamada Holdings also announced it will display a demo device at its Ikebukuro flagship store starting Dec. 25, including a testing area for visitors.

Expo 2025 generated great interest, with more than 40,000 requests for use. One might wonder whether the machine can stand out against conventional showers in daily life. For most households, price and size are likely to be a deciding factor.