There are different kinds of washing machines as well. Not sure you had a fully automatic one 40 years ago already? My g/f used to have a semi-automatic one which in fact meant that it still required quite some manual work and it was often quicker to just wash by hand.
do you think your grandmother had fully automatic machine 30-40 years ago?

They had some attachments to put garments though and get rid of water. I wouldn't think that it is quicker or easier to wash by hand if we are talking about washing bedding sheets and quilt covers. Even clothes... The first thing that my ex bought after we moved in together was a washing machine. Mine wasn't like this one though

we are so
