Amazon Dash: Everything you need to know

Amazon has launched 'WiFi-connected buttons' enabling customers to reorder household products with a single push.

From today, the e-commerce firm will make its 'Amazon Dash' buttons available in the UK.

It has only previously been for sale in the US, but on Wednesday, more than 40 brands in the UK will be able to offer the service.

The 'Dash Buttons' are designed to be placed near where users keep the products in question - so when items are running low, they can be easily reordered.

The firm also launched 'Dash Replenishment', which automatically reorders products for smart applications on your behalf - including washing machines and printers - when supplies run low.

The buttons are connected to WiFi Credit: Amazon

  • What is Amazon Dash?

'Amazon Dash' offers one-click shopping from anywhere in the home by letting you reorder household products by the simple press of a button.

Each 'Dash Button' is paired with a product of your choice, which is selected at the set-up process.

The button comes with a reusable adhesive and a removable hook - so you'll be able to hook, hang or place the item where you need it.

Daniel Raush, product developer at Amazon said: "[The buttons] can be placed near those frequently used items you don't want to run out of, and when you see supplies running low, the Dash Button makes it easier than ever to order more. Just press the button and your item is on its way."

  • How does it work?

The buttons are only available to Amazon Prime customers Credit: Amazon

The button works on WiFi and is connected to your Amazon Prime account.

Once an order is placed, a notification (if enabled) is sent to your smartphone and a green (or red) button will light on the button, depending on whether the order was successful or not.

The mobile app also provides an option for customers to cancel orders or to check order statuses.

As a security feature, the button will not let you place a new order until your prior order has been delivered - regardless of how many times the button is pressed.

  • What can I order?

Andrex, Gillette, Listerine, Olay and Right Guard are among a group of 40 brands to offer Dash Buttons in the UK.

It is expected other brands will be available in the future, with the company promising "more to come".

Andrex are one company offering the Dash Button Credit: Amazon

  • How much does it cost?

The buttons cost £4.99 each, and are only available to Amazon Prime customers.

The company has said they will offer a £4.99 discount on customers' first purchase using one of the buttons.

  • What next?

Amazon also announced a new service called 'Dash Replenishment', which combines sensors built into smart appliances - including printers and washing machines - that will automatically reorder ink or washing detergent when supplies run low.

Jorrit Van der Meulen, vice president at Amazon EU, said: "With Dash Replenishment we're taking it one-step further - enabling connected appliances to automatically reorder supplies on your behalf."