Selecting the correct washing machine for your household is important to make sure you don't have a constant supply of dirty laundry.
No matter if you're a family of four or a couple furnishing their first home, this guide will help you find the ideal appliance for your needs.
INSTALLATION
Before making a purchase, you'll need to decide if you'd like a freestanding or integrated washing machine. This will change the installation method and the look of your kitchen or utility room.
Freestanding
A freestanding washing machine is a standalone appliance that can sit underneath a counter or be stacked. This makes it easy for connection, allowing you to install a model wherever there is a connection.
Integrated
If you have a seamless kitchen or utility room design, integrated washing machines fit into your counters behind a cabinet door. Ideal for a modern and sleek interior design, you'll be able to hide your appliance.
DRUM SIZE
Selecting the correct drum size for your household will ensure your dirty laundry piles stay under control.
- Small 5-6kg: a small drum size is capable of holding around 7-9 towels, 5 trousers and t-shirts, or 1 single duvet.
- Medium 7-9kg: a medium drum size is able to hold around 10-13 towels, 7 trousers and t-shirts, or 1 double duvet.
- Large 10-13kg: a large drum size can hold around 14-18 towels, 10 trousers and t-shirts, or 1 kingsize duvet.
FEATURES
There are a large variety of washing machines and features available on the market today. Fortunately we've created a list of features to look out for when browsing.
Energy Rating
Ensuring your utility bills stay down relies on the energy rating of your appliances. The more efficient your model is, the more money you will save. Washing machines are often the most efficient on the market, usually ranging from A++ to A+++.
Spin Speed
The spin speed of a washing machine is the number of times the drum spins per minute. Therefore, a quicker spin speed removes more water which means your clothes dry quicker.
Brushless Motors
Older washing machine models tend to use brush motors that are noisy and can often break. On the other hand, newer models use brushless motors that use magnets for quieter and reliable performance.
Steam
Some premium washing machines come with a handy steam function that helps reduce creases, as well as removing bacteria and freshening up clothes.
Smart Technology
Want to make doing the laundry even simpler? You'll have to look out for Smart Technologies that let you connect your washing machine to the WiFi and control it remotely using your smartphone, Google Home or Amazon Alexa.
WASHING MACHINE FAQs
Over the 40 plus years we've been in business, our customers have asked us plenty of questions when purchasing a new appliance.
What is the standard size of a washing machine?
The width and height of a washing machine tends to measure the same across most models, with the depth changing depending on the drum size.
The measurements are often around 60cm wide, 82-85cm high and 40-70cm deep.
How long is a quick wash?
There are a variety of quick wash lengths across the market, but they tend to be around 15 to 30 minutes.
What models are the quietest?
If you're looking for a washing machine that is quiet, it is important to check whether the motor is brushless. These use frictionless magnets instead of brushes and ensure a much quieter noise level.
What is the cost of the cheapest washing machine?
At Kitchen Economy we have a wide selection of washing machines under £200.
