8 new (and super cool) smart appliances that make life easier

Two loads, one washer

Wash a big load up top while you run a smaller one in the lower compartment of LG's Twin Washer. Because who doesn't want to cut laundry time in half? Main washer, $1,990; Bottom sidekick washer, $950, Lowe's.

Tap-open dishwasher

Not only does the Futura Diamond Series Dishwasher have 14 wash programs, a 3D cutlery tray and a hidden control panel, it opens when you knock twice on the front panel — so greasy fingerprints be gone! $3,699, Miele.

Closet dry cleaner

With the LG Styler steam cabinet, you'll never have to make a trip to the dry cleaners again. It fits seamlessly between your bedroom closets, and refreshes, sanitizes and steams suits, pants, blouses and sweaters. $2,499, Sears.

Coffee brewing fridge

The GE Cafe Series french-door refrigerator has a Keurig brewing system built right into its hot-water dispenser. Bonus: You can schedule the hot water through an app, so the brew starts while you're still in bed. $4,900, Best Buy.

Motion-sensing kitchen faucet

The Moen 7594EC Arbor faucet turns on with a wave of your hand. It also has an innovative spot-resist finish, which prevents fingerprint marks and water spots. $347, Amazon.

WiFi-enabled coffeemaker

The Mr. Coffee Smart Optimal Brew 10-cup coffee maker allows you to schedule a brew and set up reminders via a smartphone app. $354, Amazon.

Smart thermostat

This nifty little gadget is a real energy saver: About a week after the 3rd generation Nest Learning Thermostat is installed, it learns your hot-cold preferences. Eerily, it can sense when no one is home, and will automatically turn down the temp. $329, The Nest Store.

Smart pan

This pan monitors your cooking so you don't have to. Connect the pan to an app on your phone for step-by-step instructions (like when to flip the salmon or when to stir or add ingredients) based on the temperature of whatever you're cooking (the pan has a temperature sensor inside.) Buy an add-on and the pan will control the heat for you. US$199, Pantelligent.

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