Families are increasingly seeking quieter household gadgets as noise pollution from kitchen appliances becomes a growing concern. Retailers report a surge in demand for products with lower decibel levels, with sales of quieter items rising by around 10 per cent annually at John Lewis.
The Quiet Mark scheme, which certifies products based on noise levels, cites World Health Organisation evidence that noise pollution is the second biggest environmental threat to public health after air pollution. Some kettles exceed 70dB, while vacuum cleaners, washing machines, blenders and juicers can surpass 80dB—comparable to the noise of a busy road.
To qualify for a Quiet Mark label, a washing machine must be below 75dB on a spin cycle, a dishwasher below 45dB, a tumble dryer below 67dB, and coffee machines in the low 60s. Quieter options are available at various price points, such as the Samsung Ecobubble washing machine at £399 and the Lakeland Mirror kettle at £49.99.
Carly Bullock of Lakeland said: 'In a world that seems to constantly move at a faster pace, we recognise that everything we can do to help our customers keep their homes as calm and peaceful as possible is appreciated.'
