Ever since it was invented, the washing machine has been making our lives easier. From freeing us from hours of scrubbing clothes by hand to today’s smart models that can automatically adjust water and detergent, save energy and even be controlled from your phone, it has evolved into an appliance that does more than just clean clothes.
All the extra features modern washers come with make life more convenient, but can also make it confusing to choose. To help you out, here’s a breakdown of the must-have features you should look for and the nice-to-have extras that can make laundry chores even smoother.
Must-Have Features
Must-have features are the ones that are essential for your laundry needs.
The Right Capacity for Your Needs
Capacity is what determines how much laundry the machine can handle in one load. Capacity is measured in kilograms, and most washing machines range from 6kg to over 10kg.
The most popular options are washing machines with 8kg capacity, which are perfect for an average household of 3 to 4 people. To give an idea, an 8kg load can handle around 32 T-shirts and 3 pairs of jeans or a set of sheets, pillowcases and towels in one wash. This makes washing machines with 8kg capacity versatile enough for everyday laundry and occasional bulky items.
For smaller households of 1-2 people, 6kg to 7kg washing machines are usually sufficient. These machines have enough room for regular laundry without taking up unnecessary space.
Larger families of 5 or more members will benefit from 9kg to 10+kg machines, which can wash bigger loads at once, saving time and energy.
Choosing the right capacity for your needs ensures you get the best balance between efficiency and convenience.
Front-Load vs Top-Load
Another thing to consider is the space you have available – not just for the washing machine itself, but also for opening its door and for putting your dryer. Will the dryer sit beside the washer or on top? Your choice of machine will determine what works best.
Front-load washing machines have a front door, so they can be stacked with a dryer or fit under a benchtop. They use less water than top loaders and are often more energy efficient, but the cycles take longer. Since they have a built-in water heater, they only need a cold water connection. They also spin higher, which helps clothes dry faster once the wash is done.
Top-load washing machines open from the top, so you don’t have to bend down to load or unload clothes. You can also add forgotten items mid-cycle, which is usually not possible with front loaders.
Instead of clothes tumbling with gravity, top loaders use an agitator or impeller to move clothes around. Because clothes are submerged in water throughout the cycle, they wash faster, but sometimes clothes can get tangled. If you want to use warm water cycles, you’ll need both hot and cold water connections.
Energy and Water Efficiency
Choosing an energy-efficient washing machine is a smart move for your wallet and the planet. Models with high efficiency ratings, like those with the Energy Star label, are designed to use less power and water while still getting great cleaning results. That means lower bills over time, a smaller carbon footprint and an appliance that’s cost-effective and eco-friendly.
Quality and Durability
Buying a washing machine is a long-term investment, so durability should be high on your list. Look for models from reputable brands with a good reputation and take time to read reviews and comparisons before you decide. A stainless steel drum and solid overall build are good signs of a machine built to last.
Nice-to-Have Features
Nice-to-have features are for those with special laundry habits or high-tech preferences.
Specific Wash Cycles
Modern washing machines have various wash programs for different fabrics and laundry needs. From everyday cycles for regular loads to gentle options for delicates, heavy-duty for tougher fabrics and quick wash for when you’re short on time, these features make it easy to get the best results while protecting your clothes.
Spin Speed
The spin speed of a washing machine is a big factor in how fast your clothes dry. A higher spin speed removes more water from your laundry, so less time in the dryer or on the clothesline.
But not all fabrics can handle high speeds. Delicates, for example, are better off with a gentler spin to avoid wear and tear. Machines with adjustable spin speed give you the flexibility to match the cycle to the type of fabric you’re washing, so you can protect your clothes while still keeping drying times efficient.
Noise and Vibration
If your washing machine will be in a living space or bedroom, it’s worth considering its noise and vibration levels. Some models have special noise reduction technology and anti-vibration systems that keep the machine stable and quiet, even on high spin. This makes a big difference if you run loads at night or have an open plan home, so your laundry doesn’t disturb the rest of the household.
Smart Connectivity
Many modern washing machines now have Wi-Fi connectivity so you can link them to your smartphone or other smart devices. This lets you check on a cycle’s progress, start or schedule a wash remotely and even get alerts if something goes wrong, all without having to be at home. Smart features like these add extra convenience and give you more control over your laundry.
After-Sales Services and Warranty
It’s also worth thinking about the after-sales service and warranty that comes with your washing machine. A good warranty gives you peace of mind, so you’re protected against defects or breakdowns. Check the brand’s reputation for customer support and availability of spare parts so you know help will be there if you need repairs or maintenance.
Final Words
As you can see, buying a washing machine requires you to consider different features. Think about your laundry needs, consider your options, compare features, and you’ll be on the right path to choose a machine that will perfectly suit your needs.
