Not sure it qualifies as low enough tech but: a power socket with a timer. I would put my laundry in the washing machine and set the socket to turn on at 7:30.

Not sure it qualifies as low enough tech but: a power socket with a timer. I would put my laundry in the washing machine and set the socket to turn on at 7:30. It would finish at about 9:00, I'd hang the laundry to dry then leave for work.