Buying a Washing Machine
Buying a washing machine may sound like a simple task, but with hundreds of models on the market, choosing the right appliance for your home is far from easy.
Basic models have just a few generic wash settings, whereas high tech machines have so many programmes to choose from, there’s a wash for virtually every type of fabric and stain!
Our washing machine buyers guide will show you everything you need to look for before purchasing one of these essential home appliances.
What Size Drum do I Need?
The load capacity is an important factor to consider before choosing your washing machine. Take a moment to think about how many loads you complete on a weekly or daily basis. Larger families may require a model which is more accommodating to heavy duty loads, but couples and smaller families may prefer a slightly smaller drum with more settings and features.
Nobody wants to replace their washing machine on a regular basis, so you should also look to the future, considering whether or not you will extend your family and where you plan to live in the next 5-10 years.
The amount of clothes and fabrics a machine can hold varies from around 5 – 11kg. If you find yourself regularly washing bulky items such as bedding, towels and bath mats, you should look for a larger drum built to hold around 9 -11kg. However, the average household generally only needs a standard machine with a load capacity of 7 – 8kg. This is the most common size and many models offer settings designed for both small and large loads.
Which Temperature Setting Should I Use?
All washing machines have a selection of temperatures to choose from ranging from 30 – 90 degrees. 30 degrees is of course the most energy efficient temperature setting and many modern detergents are designed to effectively keep clothes clean and fresh at this cool temperature.
40 degrees is the most common wash temperature as it’s well suited to a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, viscose, acrylics, acetate, wool and other everyday items. 50 degrees is suitable for polyester/cotton mixtures. This higher temperature can also be used to remove tough stains. 60 degree washes are great for bed linen, tough stains and heavily soiled items such as baby clothing. Certain models have a 90 degree setting, but with the introduction of effective detergents and stain removers this is rarely needed.
What Programmes are Available?
These days, washing machines have dozens of programmes, from the traditional rinsing and spinning, to new settings like allergen removal and reduced ironing. Here we’ve outlined just a few of the best wash programmes on offer.
Quick Wash: This speedy setting will wash clothes in around 30 minutes (depending on the model). Save time by using this feature to freshen up smaller amounts of fabric. Certain machines also have a ‘Super Quick’ programme which can wash around 2kg of clothes in just 15 minutes.
Eco-Friendly Wash: Energy saving programmes are designed to reduce your electricity and water bills and help protect the planet. Some models have a ‘Half Load’ setting which also saves energy and is ideal for smaller loads.
Allergen Removal Wash: These high temperature steam programmes are designed to help allergy sufferers by removing dust mites and pollen from fabrics around the home. Adding tea tree oil to the cycle and drying garments in direct sunlight will also help.
Reduced Ironing Wash: Although these programmes will not reduce your ironing pile (they haven’t invented a magic machine just yet) they are specially designed to make the dreaded chore quicker and easier with reduced crease technology and slower spin speeds.
What are the Benefits of a Washer Dryer?
If you have limited space available in your kitchen or utility room, you may wish to purchase a combined washer dryer. There are many models to choose from which all have virtually the same features as separate washing machines and tumble dryers. However, these combined appliances may be impractical for larger families, as you can only wash or dry at one time.
For more information or advice on buying a washing machine, get in touch. We have the experience and knowledge needed to help you choose the right appliance for your home.
