What’s new in washing machines?
Discover the latest washing machine features that save you time, energy and money.
Ready to upgrade your laundry game?
Here are the breakthrough features transforming how we wash clothes in 2026:
Quick Wash
Need clothes washed fast? The latest quick-wash cycles can handle full loads in under an hour – perfect for busy families. Models like the Beko 10kg washing machine deliver a thorough clean on full loads in just 60 minutes.
Shop quick wash machines
Sensor Guided Wash
Sensors automatically detect load size and fabric type, adjusting water levels and cycle time for perfect results every wash. Tech like Bosch ActiveWater adjusts usage based on your load, saving water and energy while protecting your clothes.
Shop sensor guided machines
Auto-Dosing
Say goodbye to guesswork. Auto-dosing systems like the Hisense Auto-Dosing washing machine automatically dispense the exact amount of detergent needed for each load, preventing waste and delivering optimal cleaning.
Shop auto-dosing machines
Energy Saving AI
Cutting-edge AI tech learns your washing patterns to optimise every cycle. Samsung's AI Energy mode can save up to 70% on energy use, while LG's AI Wash detects fabric types and soil levels, and adjusts the cycle automatically for perfect results.
Shop AI-powered machines
Machine types
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Will it fit?
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Drum size
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Which features matter?
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Running costs
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Delivery & installation
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Not all washing machines are created equal. Your kitchen or laundry layout will decide which type works best for you. Here's our quick guide to help you find the perfect fit.
What are they:
These are standalone machines that can sit anywhere that has a water connection – they don’t need to be installed inside a cabinet.
Perfect if:
You’re renting
You have a laundry room
You want maximum flexibility
You’re budget-conscious, as these machines are typically cheaper than integrated models.
Things to consider:
They’ll be more visible in your space
Can be noisier during spin cycles
What are they:
These are machines designed to fit behind your kitchen cabinet doors for a streamlined, hidden look.
Perfect if:
You have a fitted kitchen
You have an open-plan living spaces
You like a quieter machine (as they’re more insulated)
Things to consider:
Professional installation usually required
They cost slightly more
They must match standard cabinet dimensions
What are they:
Two appliances in one – you can wash and dry your clothes without moving them between machines.
Perfect if:
You have a small flat or compact home.
You don’t have outdoor drying space
You don’t need to wash multiple loads in a week
Things to consider:
The drying capacity is usually half the washing capacity
Cycle times are longer
Higher energy consumption for drying
A quick comparison:
| Feature | Freestanding | Integrated | Washer dryer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Installation | DIY friendly | Professional | DIY/Professional |
| Noise level | Moderate | Quieter | Moderate |
| Flexibility | High | Fixed | High |
| Space required | Standard | Standard | Minimal |
| Best for | Utility rooms | Fitted kitchens | Small spaces |
Still unsure? Our expert team is here to help you choose. Chat with one of our Tech Experts using ShopLive or at your local Currys store.
Will it fit in my kitchen/laundry room?
Nothing's worse than ordering a new washing machine only to find it won't fit through the door or under your worktop. Let's make sure you get it right first time with our simple measuring guide.
If your thinnest doorway is at least 62cm wide, most washing machines will fit through when tilted.
Mish, Currys tech expert
Standard washing machine dimensions
Most common UK sizes have standard heights of 85cm (the standard worktop height) and widths of 60cm. Depths can vary between 55-65cm depending on the model.
If you’re looking for seamless kitchen integration, under-counter fit designs from brands like LG’s ‘Counter-depth MAX’ range or Hisense’s ‘KitchenFit’ series are a great choice.
IMPORTANT - Always check individual product specifications - some models can vary by 5-10cm
What size drum do I need?
Choosing the right drum capacity is about maximising efficiency rather than going smaller. The key is learning to bulk your washes effectively to make the most of larger capacities while keeping energy costs down.
Every kg matters, 1kg is approximately 5 adult t-shirts or 2 bath towels.
Up to 8 kg
Perfect for:
Budget-conscious households
Those wanting to wash smaller loads
2-3 washes per week
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9 - 10 kg
Perfect for:
Most households (2-4 people)
Smaller households wanting to bulk wash for energy efficiency
King-size bedding
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11 kg +
Perfect for:
Large families (5+ people)
Those who wash multiple loads daily
Super King-sized bedding
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Capacity reference table
| Recommended capacity | Household size | Loads per week |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 8 kg | 1-2 people | 2-3 |
| 8-9 kg | 2-3 people | 3-4 |
| 9-10 kg | 3-4 people | 4-5 |
| 10-11 kg | 4-5 people | 5-6 |
| 11 kg + | 5+ people | 6 + |
When in doubt between two sizes, 80% of customers are happier choosing the larger capacity. The flexibility of handling occasional big items like winter duvets or muddy sports kits outweighs the minimal extra energy cost
Chloe, Currys tech expert
Which features matter?
Modern washing machines are packed with some game changing new technology. Here’s our pick of the best new features.
A cheaper washing machine today could cost you hundreds more over its lifetime. Here's the simple truth about running costs – and why investing a bit more upfront could be a smart move.
Energy consumption isn't just about efficiency ratings - it's also affected by drum capacity. An 8kg machine uses less energy per wash. But imagine you have 80kgs of laundry to wash each month. With an 8kg washing machine, you’d need to do 10 loads of washing. But with a 10kg machine, you’d only need to do 8 loads. That’s a saving on wash loads, and a saving on your energy bill.
| Energy rating | kWh per year | Annual cost |
|---|---|---|
| A | 155 kWh | £42.92 |
| B | 185 kWh | £51.23 |
| C | 210 kWh | £58.15 |
| D | 248 kWh | £68.67 |
*Based on average UK electricity rates (2026): 27.69p per kWh
An A-rated machine typically costs £100-150 more upfront but pays for itself in energy savings within 4-5 years.
Water efficiency also varies by drum capacity. Larger drums use more water per cycle, though this can be offset by running fewer loads overall.
| Machine type | kWh per year | Water cost | Sewerage Cost | Annual cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A-rated (efficient) | 8,800 L | £14.43 | £18.92 | £33.33 |
| B | 10,800 L | £17.71 | £23.22 | £40.93 |
| C | + 2,000 L | + £3.28 | + £4.30 | + £7.58/year |
Based on average UK combined water and sewerage rates (2026): approximately £3.79 per cubic metre.
Source: Consumer Council for Water & Ofwat 2026 data.
This saving applies if you have a water meter. If you have fixed annual water charges, water efficiency won't directly save you money.
How about delivery and installation?
You've chosen the perfect washing machine, now let's get it home and up and running. Our delivery, installation and product recycling services take all the stress out of the process, from removal of your old machine to testing your new one is working perfectly.
Our delivery service
We’ll deliver your new washing machine straight to the room of your choice, not just your doorstep.
What's included with delivery:
2-hour delivery window with SMS updates
Day-before confirmation text
30-minute "we're on our way" alert
Real-time driver tracking on delivery day
Delivery to your chosen room
Unpacking and packaging removal
All cardboard and plastics recycled responsibly
Our installation service
Our expert engineers take the stress out of setup, making sure everything works perfectly.
Our engineers will:
Connect & test everything
Get it setup
Enable smart features (smart models)
Clean up and remove all packaging materials
Jargon Buster – Washing Machine Terms Explained
Our expert engineers take the stress out of setup, making sure everything works perfectly.
