Trying to find “the best washing machine” is obviously very subjective. After all, what’s best is what’s best for you. If you’ve just started your search, our Washing machine buying guide should help you get a clear idea of what to look for.
If you’ve already got an idea of what you’re after, the good news is that we have a massive choice of washing machines to pick from. Both freestanding washing machines and integrated washing machines. So, to narrow your search, we’ll break down some of the key considerations people make when picking out a machine and then attach a recommended washing machine to each.
The best budget washing machines under £300
When you're shopping with budget in mind, look for a reliable all-rounder that’s easy to maintain. That means it will keep working at its best for longer. Lots of wash programs will let you can tackle everything from bed sheets to berets.
Try the Beko 7 kg 1200 Spin washing machine
This Beko 7 kg 1200 Spin Washing Machine’s Quick Programme can do a full load of laundry in only 28 minutes. And it’s DrumClean programme will run a 70°C that will remove bacteria from the drum and make sure that your washing stays hygienic.
The best washing machines under £400
If you’re looking to spend a touch more, it might be an idea to invest in some long-term savings. Energy efficient washing machines have less impact on the planet and can save you money too. Go for something that takes the guesswork out of washing too – with a washing machine that can automatically use just the right of energy and water to get your clothes clean.
Try the HAIER I-Pro Series 3 8 kg 1400 Spin washing machine
With its A class energy rating, the HAIER I-Pro Series 3 Washing Machine uses 51% less energy than a G class machine. And because it’ll automatically weigh your washing, it’ll only use as much water and energy as necessary to get your clothes sparkling clean.
The best washing machines under £500
Take another step up and it’s all about the special features that can make your life easier. That includes washing tech that better cleans your clothes, automatic sensors that work out how to wash lots of different clothes at once or even smart features – effectively letting you control your washing machine from your phone.
Try the SAMSUNG Series 5 Ecobubble washing machine
Samsung always use some very clever tech in their washing machines, and the SAMSUNG Series 5 Ecobubble 9 kg 1400 Spin Washing Machine is no exception. Its Ecobubble tech looks after your favourite clothes by washing them at a cooler temperature. Then you’ve got the Hygiene steam setting, which takes care of nasty microbes too. And it does all this with a an A-rating for energy effiency too. Good news for your household bills!
Try the HOOVER H-Wash 500 Spin washing machine
The Hoover H-Wash 500 WiFi-enabled Spin Washing Machine is the ultimate time saver, because rather than separating out your clothes, you can throw them all in together and let the washing machine do the rest! Then there’s the smart functionality. Connect the H-Wash 500 to your home wi-fi and you can pick a cycle, start your wash and check when it’s ready from wherever you are.
The best value washing machines
The best value doesn’t mean the cheapest washing machine. It’s about balancing budget with features you don’t want to miss out on. For all-around value, search for a washing machine with a good load capacity, high energy efficiency, and clever features.
Try the Candy CS NFC 9kg washing machine
You won’t have to break the bank to afford a great washing machine like the Candy CS Washing Machine. It’s energy efficient (with a B rating), has quick wash Rapid Cycles, can take a 9kg load, uses sensors to work out what your washing needs and even comes with WiFi connectivity with the Simply Fi app. That’s a lot of washing machine for your money!
The best Quick Wash washing machines
If the point of Quick Wash was to clean your clothes much, much quicker, it’d be the only type of cycle. Instead, Quick Wash is all about freshening clothes up, rather than tackling ingrained stains. So when you’re looking for the best Quick Wash machine, the priority is how fast the programme takes and the weight of the load.
Try the LG EZDispense with TurboWash 360 V11
The LG EZDispense can wash 2kg of laundry in just 14 minutes! If you’re running late for a wedding or interview, this feature can be a total game changer. And even if you want a full load thoroughly clean, it can do a cycle in 39 minutes. No more waiting around on laundry day.
The best energy-efficient washing machines
Having an energy-efficient machine isn’t just about being kinder to the planet, it’s all about making savings on those energy bills too. Fortunately, we’ve created a filter for energy saving washing machines to make it easier to find your next washing machine. Just look for a top energy rating and compare how much you can save.
Try the SAMSUNG Series 5 SpaceMax washing machine
If it wasn’t impressive enough to fit that large 11kg capacity into a standard washing machine-sized slot, this SpaceMax is also energy efficient to boot! The SAMSUNG Series 5 SpaceMax 11 kg 1400 Spin Washing Machine wears its A-rating proudly while boasting all the usual Samsung washing wizardry - including Ecobubble, Hygiene Steam and a 5-year guarantee.
Try the Bosch Series 8 i-DOS washing machine
When it comes to saving energy, the Bosch Series 8 i-DOS is hard to beat. An A-rated energy saver, this Bosch could save you £600 over its lifetime. It’s a very smart washing machine, only using as much detergent, water and energy as needed to get your clothes clean. And it’s super quiet too.
FAQs
What to look for when buying a washing machine?
Think about things like capacity, energy efficiency and wash programs. Measure up your space so you know that the washing machine you have your eye on will fit. But before you do anything else, be sure to go to our Washing machine buying guide first. Not that we’re biased or anything.
What is the best energy rating for a washing machine?
A higher energy rating, such as A or B, is more energy-efficient. Our energy rating guide breaks everything down so that it’s easy to understand.
Which is the best brand of washing machine?
While there’s objectively no ‘best brand’ some brands work best when in a smart home ecosystem (like Samsung) while other brands are focused more on amazing value or innovative features. (Some will even let you wash your trainers!)
Which washing machine is better - front load or top load?
Front-load washers can be more energy-efficient and will fit in built-in space like in cupboards or under counter tops. Top-load washers can have a much larger capacity and can be great if you have space for a large, freestanding washer.
If you want your washing machine to go the distance, be sure to pick up a Care & Repair plan to keep your appliance working at its best. That way, you’ll never have a let down on laundry days!
