Navigate this guide
Types of washing machine
Anchor down
What size do I need?
Anchor down
Things to consider
Anchor down
Extra features
Anchor down
After you buy
Anchor down
Types of washing machine
What is a freestanding washing machine?
A freestanding washing machine stands on its own. This means you can put one anywhere there’s a mains socket and a water supply. You can put it under a counter if it’ll fit, or just keep it as is.
Freestanding washers are built to be moved about, so you can take yours with you if you’re moving house. And they come in lots of different shapes and sizes too, meaning there’s a bit more choice when you’re looking for one.
What is an integrated washing machine?
Want a washing machine that you can tuck away? An integrated washing machine is just what you need. These will slot neatly into a cupboard or under a counter, so it stays out of sight.
Most integrated washers are made to fit standard cabinet sizes too, making it easy to find the right one. But it’s still important to measure up carefully if you want the best integrated washing machine size for your space.
What is a washer dryer?
A washer dryer is perfect if you need to save on space. They combine a washing machine and a tumble dryer in one unit, so these two-in-one appliances make sorting the laundry a breeze. Just load up, pick your programme, and wait for your clean and dry clothes to come out the other end.
It can also be cheaper to get a washer dryer instead of a separate washing machine and tumble dryer. And like regular washing machines, a washer dryer combo can be freestanding or integrated.
A ‘quick wash’ cycle is brilliant when you're in a bind, but it won’t be thorough enough for your whole weekly wash. If you want speed and power, check for washing machines that can do a full load in under an hour.
Chloe, Currys tech expert
Which size washing machine do I need?
Washing machine drum sizes are usually measured in the weight of dry clothes. Standard washing machine sizes are between 7 and 9kg, which are ideal for average family-sized loads.
Small households
How many people: Up to 4 people
How much laundry: 5 trousers & t-shirts or 1 single duvet
Drum size: 7kg drum or less
Medium households
How many people: 4-6 people
How much laundry: 7 trousers & t-shirts or 1 double duvet
Drum size: 8-9kg drum or less
Large households
How many people: More than 6 people
How much laundry: 10 trousers & t-shirts or 1 king size duvet
Drum size: 10kg drum or larger
Look out for the energy efficiency sticker on washing machines in our product listing page to quickly find our most eco-friendly picks.
Mish, Currys tech expert
Extra features to look out for when buying a washing machine
Steam function
A steam washing machine is great at getting rid of allergens, bacteria, and the toughest stains. By adding steam to the drum, this relaxes clothing fibres and makes it easier for water and detergent to break down those deep stains. Plus, a washing machine steam function can reduce wrinkles too — taking ironing out of the equation!
Smart settings
Smart washing machines have built-in Wi-Fi so they can connect to the internet. This lets you wirelessly control them from an app on your phone, tablet, or smart home hub. With a smart washing machine, you can set and start programmes from the sofa or check how long a cycle has left when you’re upstairs.
Quick wash
Need that gym kit turned around fast? Look for washing machines with a ‘quick wash’ cycle. A quick wash washing machine can freshen up a small load in as little as 15 minutes. Ideal for when you need to quickly clean your favourite shirt. Using a quick wash programme can save you money by using less energy and water too.
Quiet performance
No one wants to sit through a racket when washing their clothes, especially if you’re working from home. If you want a quiet washing machine, make sure to check the average noise level. This is measured in decibels (dB).
While you’ll never get a totally silent washing machine, anything below 50dB is pretty quiet. Integrated washing machines can be quieter than freestanding washers too, with cupboard doors and worktops offering some sound proofing.
Auto dosing
With an auto-dosing washing machine, there’s no need to add detergent to every wash. All you’ll need to do is fill up its special detergent compartment ahead of time. And then when it’s time to do your wash, it’ll automatically add the right amount of detergent by weighing your washing.
Enhanced cleaning
Spilling wine, coffee, or pasta sauce doesn’t mean the end of your favourite outfit. Lots of washing machines now come with special enhanced cleaning and stain removal programmes to save your clothes from the bin. Some use steam to tackle the problem, while others adjust the soaking time, temperature, or drum action to lift stubborn stains.
Sensor guided wash
Washing machines with load sensors help to get rid of the guesswork. These washers automatically adjust the water, heat, and spin speed to match the size of your laundry load. Plus, since you’re never using more energy or water than you need to — they can help with the bills as well.
Add to wash
Everyone knows the feeling. You’ve put the laundry on only to spot that you’ve missed a sock. No need to worry, as ‘add to the wash’ washing machines have a ‘pause cycle’ button or ‘reload function' that’ll let you chuck in those forgotten bits mid-cycle. There’s no need to wait until your next laundry day!
Self-cleaning
To keep your washing machine in tip-top shape, it’s a good idea to give the drum a clean every now and then. But you won’t need to use any elbow grease with a self-clean washing machine. These come with a ‘self-cleaning’ cycle that’ll remove any build-ups of softener, detergent, and dirt in the drum.
A dirty washing machine means smelly clothes and even a visit from the repair man – so show your washer a little TLC every now and then! Here are some tips on how to clean your washing machine.
Katrina, Currys tech expert
