How to choose a washing machine: expert advice on choosing a good, inexpensive and reliable model based on reviews

Nowadays, not a single modern housewife can imagine cleaning dirty laundry without an electric washing machine. But the first such units appeared in the 19th century; their creator was the American Blackstone.

Nowadays, washing machines are no longer a luxury item, but a necessity.

To choose the best device for your home, it is important to consider the type of product, its features and design. See the rating of washing machines here.

Types by type of laundry load

In addition to the fact that washing machines are divided into automatic and semi-automatic, these units also differ in the type of loading.

There is front and vertical loading, let's look at them in more detail..

Front loading

This type of laundry storage is considered the most optimal, unpretentious and convenient. In addition, the cost of machines with such loading and their repair will be much cheaper compared to vertical products.

These models have a simpler and higher quality design.

The transparent glass hatch, which is located frontally, makes it possible to watch the process of washing clothes. This is very convenient, because if the owner forgot to take documents or money out of her jeans pockets, she will be able to see it in the hatch window.

The loading window has a special sealing collar that ensures tightness.

With careful use, this cuff can last for many years without tearing.

The drum of the machine is fixed on one axis (vertical ones have two axes), this simplifies the maintenance and repair of the product.

A front-loading washing machine is great for small apartments - very often families use the upper body of the device as a bedside table, for example in the bathroom.

Frontal models are usually 60 cm wide and 90 cm high.

Vertical loading

Vertical-loading machines have a more complex design and therefore cost much more than front-loading models.

The drum in such washing machines is mounted on two axes and has two bearings . Such details do not simplify the maintenance of the model, but only create difficulties.

After all, to create alignment of the drum, it is necessary to balance the two parts. Not all washing machine manufacturers manage to do this, which is why some units shake during operation.

During the working process of a vertical washing machine, the drum flaps may accidentally open, which will lead to breakdowns and costly repairs..

However, such problems can often be found only with inexpensive Chinese manufacturers.

Vertical machines also have their positive features:

option for additional loading of laundry while the machine is operating;
the ability to remove excess clothing from the unit;
the body is more compact compared to front-facing models - they have a width of 45 cm, a height of 85 cm and a depth of 60 cm.

In advertisements for washing machines you can often find the statement that vertical devices are more durable and reliable..

However, in practice, this is not always the case - the quality of the product does not always depend on the type of loading.

How to choose and what to look for when buying

There are basic criteria that you should focus on when choosing a washing machine. These include technical characteristics, types of devices, and additional features.

type of instalation

There are three types of washing machines on the household appliances market:

Built-in. Such equipment is most often installed in the kitchen. In Russia, these models are not very popular. Built-in units are equipped with legs that allow you to change the height so that the machine fits perfectly into the kitchen unit. This type is only available in the front version, since vertical units will require a special opening tabletop.
Freestanding . The most common option in our country, 81-85 cm high. Suitable for medium and large sized bathrooms. The top panel of the cabinet is often used by families as an additional bedside table.
Installed under the sink . An ideal option for small apartments. Such models have a more compact size, 65-70 cm.

Loading type – which is better?

Vertical loading has two important advantages:

the ability to add additional laundry during washing without canceling the program;
To load laundry you do not need to bend down or squat - optimal for the elderly, pregnant women, etc.

Front loading washing machines:

generally more airtight and of higher quality;
have a transparent hatch for monitoring the washing process;
have simpler maintenance and cheaper repairs;
can be installed anywhere - in furniture, under the sink, etc.

Maximum load of laundry (kg)

The maximum load of laundry is determined by the capacity of the washing machine drum . This parameter is different for all products and varies from 3 to 7 kg.

If a family consists of 4 people, then it is definitely worth buying a machine with a drum load of at least 5 kg.

Washing machines with large loads are also more profitable in terms of saving electricity, water and washing powder.

It is clear that for one person in an apartment a unit with a minimum load of laundry is suitable.

It is worth considering that the passports of washing machines indicate the capacity of the drum based on cotton fabric.

The minimum weight of loaded laundry is also indicated there (usually 1-1.5 kg); a small amount of laundry negatively affects the drum bearings.

Depth

The maximum amount of laundry that needs to be placed in the machine depends on the depth of the washing machine..

If the apartment is small, it is better to purchase a unit with a shallow depth - 30 or 40 cm; this parameter allows you to wash up to 5 kg of clothes.

Washing machines with a depth of 50 cm allow you to clean up to 7 kg of laundry at a time.

Products with the greatest depth (60 cm) will increase the volume of loaded laundry to 8-10 kg, which is optimal for a very large family (from 4 people).

Drying and steam ironing

The drying option is a very useful feature that allows you to use fresh laundry immediately after washing..

There is no need to hang it, and if the steam ironing function is included in the machine, then you will not need to iron it. These two useful options save space in the apartment.

When buying a model with drying, it is important to consider some nuances:

number of drying programs - the machine needs to dry synthetics, cotton fabrics, wool, etc.
the maximum volume of laundry that drying can handle is half that of the volume that the machine can wash;
inexpensive models dry clothes over a certain period of time, while more expensive models measure the humidity in the drum, making the laundry optimal for ironing and saving electricity.

Spin speed

Its quality depends on the maximum spin speed.

Most washing machines have speeds between 800 and 1200 rpm.

For small household tasks, 1000 rpm will be enough, but in order to wash a lot of clothes, it is better to buy a machine with a higher load and a higher spin speed.

Leak protection

The clothes washing machine comes into contact with water and must have a good protection system so that there is no flood due to any broken part..

The most vulnerable places are the water supply and drain hose, as well as the device body itself.

Hoses are protected by solenoid valves and additional inserted hoses.

The housing is protected in the form of a pan and a float - if water gets into the pan, the float will rise and block the operation of the system.

You need to buy a washing machine with full protection, without saving money..

engine's type

There are traditional types of motors - asynchronous and commutator, as well as direct drive motor.

The inverter motor is the latest direct drive motor for washing machines and does not use brushes like traditional motors..

Washing machines with this type of motor are characterized by increased wear resistance. The inverter motor has a frequency converter that can change the rotation frequency and speed of the drum, converting direct current into alternating current.

It operates almost silently, and efficiency increases by 20%, unlike conventional engines.

Of course, the cost of washing devices with an inverter motor is higher than with a conventional one, but from the point of view of price-quality ratio, this is the best investment in household appliances that will not fail for a long time.

Water consumption

Each laundry washing device has its own standard consumption per cycle.

Typically this parameter ranges from 36 to 60 liters, but some large-sized models require up to 100 liters of water.

To use the latest units, it is better to install a water meter.

Control method

Almost all washing devices have an electronic control panel. However, its appearance may differ significantly.

Some models have a display that shows at what stage the program is running.

Activator models are equipped with a mechanical control system, where parameters are set manually.

Noise level

The standard noise level for washing machines is 55 dB . If the machine is installed next to a children's room or bedroom, it is better to pay attention to quieter models.

They can be used even at night, they do not irritate human hearing and do not shake or vibrate much during drying.

Additional functions

Sometimes the needs of the family may require additional programs from the washing machine.

Let's look at some popular helper functions:

express wash;
super rinse;
control over the amount of foam;
delayed start;
night mode;
steam wash;
soak;
programs for lace, jeans, down garments, sports training, black fabrics, etc.

Selection of washing machines

Loading method: vertical or horizontal

As mentioned above, a top-loading machine . It is very reliable and easy to use. Then, you can throw laundry into a machine with a vertical loading method during the washing process. A family with a small child does not have to worry about a prankster playing around with the control panel without permission - in such cars it is located on top.

When choosing a machine with a front loading method, you should pay attention to how wide the hatch swings open. It is desirable that the angle is 180 degrees. Machines with frontal laundry supply are easily built under the kitchen panel.

Drum and tank - materials

The place where the washing machine drum is placed is called the tank. The material used is stainless steel or composite materials (metal or plastic). The best choice would be wear-resistant stainless steel. Composite materials will smooth out the internal noise and vibration during operation of the washing machine, but they do not have good wear resistance. The choice of material depends on the needs of the user.

Washing and spinning classes

The indicator that determines how well a washing device combines quality washing with a measure of energy consumption is called class. The best units belong to the “A” class . Their work is characterized by careful handling of laundry while energy consumption is minimal. Devices that are ineffective in operation are classified as class “G”.

Also, the letters “A” to “G” indicate spin classes. Although in many washing units the spin is set by a program - from 400 to 1600 rpm. per minute For dense fabrics, choose a high spin level; for delicate laundry, choose a low one.

What spin speed is considered the best?

If you want to get dry laundry when leaving the washing machine, then you need to choose a spin with a high number of revolutions per minute. However, such units belong to prestigious brands of reliable manufacturers and are expensive.

A standard washing device usually has 1200 rpm. There are units with a high number of revolutions. This is the ASKO brand, here the number of revolutions per minute reaches up to 2000.

Small-sized machines with a high number of revolutions will not be able to spin clothes as well as a standard-sized device does. The reason is the radius of the drum - it is smaller in compact models.

Wash programming

Each washing device is initially programmed for certain washing modes. It is worth mentioning the most famous modes:

if the laundry needs to be slightly “refreshed”, then the quick wash mode is suitable for this;
to remove heavy dirt, use the soaking mode;
The extra rinse mode is suitable if you want to get rid of the smell of washing powder;
Half load and economical wash modes will save water and energy.

In addition to those listed, there are others. You should pay attention to the software package even before purchasing a washing machine.

Connection

An automatic washing machine is connected either to cold water only, or to hot and cold water simultaneously. The first connection option will allow you to save on hot water, plus heating inside the unit occurs evenly. However, this connection option will require the loading of special water softeners. The second option is less preferable. Although it will save energy, the quality of hot water supplied to the device may be poor.

Drying function

Many manufacturers offer to buy machine models that have a clothes drying function. A very convenient option. Once you set the function, the unit will dry the washed laundry itself. But this option has disadvantages. For example, you can dry only half of your laundry. If 4 kg have been washed. of laundry, then 2 kg is removed, and the remainder can be dried. Another disadvantage is that the unit wrinkles things a lot , so it’s better to refrain from drying delicate fabrics. Otherwise it will be very difficult to smooth them out.

Choosing a silent machine

When choosing, you should not focus on the so-called noise classes. The bright stickers on the bodies of washing machines speak volumes about this. It is worth knowing that cars with sound insulation produce less noise. It is used to glue the machine from the inside.

To reduce noise from the operation of the washing unit, a three-phase asynchronous drum drive motor is used. This technique produces less noise than a conventional brushed motor.

Leakage protection

The protection is installed at the factory initially and it is impossible to purchase it additionally for your washing machine. Moreover, protection against leaks is not installed on every model .

Depending on the nature of protection, washing devices come in several types:

without leakage protection;
with partial leakage protection;
complete protection against leakage.

Additional systems and functions

Aqua Sensor - reduces water consumption when washing. If the water becomes less clear, this system will increase the rinse time. And with clean water it will reduce.
Booble-soaking is a device used to dissolve detergents. It also creates water saturated with bubbles. In such water, detergents will dissolve faster and completely.
Fuzzi Control - this device controls and adjusts the washing program, focusing on the type of laundry and its volume. Regulates water flow during rinsing. If too much foam is formed, the device will turn on an additional rinse cycle and change the rhythm of the drum rotation. When the spinning process occurs, this device monitors the imbalance and rotation speed of the drum. It sets the desired mode for fast spinning with less vibration.
S-system is a device that controls the foaming process in the drum. If necessary, it can turn on the pump and remove excess foam.
ALC is a device for automatic water control. Regulates the consumption of water and electricity during washing, based on the parameters of the loaded laundry, its volume and type.
Aqua Stop is an automated device that protects the machine from water leakage. If water is detected anywhere in the machine, the device will instantly turn off its supply.
Fuzzi Logic - is responsible for the operating modes and parameters of the washing machine. It works like this: a small amount of water first enters the drum, then the drum makes several revolutions. During this time, the system determines how much laundry has been loaded into the machine, measures the temperature of the tap water and calculates the required volume of water for washing. The system also controls the rinsing process, drum rotation speed and spin duration.
Smart is a device that controls foam formation and regulates the number of drum revolutions when operating in spin mode. The number of revolutions is selected depending on the type of things.
Automatic balancing - the system allows you to control the engine and drum speed during the spin process. If an imbalance occurs during operation, the system stops the engine and starts a reverse rotation mode. During which the laundry is evenly distributed over the inner surface of the drum. If after this the imbalance problem has not been resolved, then the engine continues to operate at lower speeds. Machines equipped with such a system break down less often and last longer.
Automatic water cooling before draining is a system that cools the water drained from the machine. This prevents temperature changes in the drainage system.
Automatic cost optimization - calculates the optimal consumption of water and electrical energy, which allows you to reduce costs.
More water is a function responsible for regulating the supply of more water when washing dirty laundry.
Hatch protection - blocks the loading hatch during washing. After the process is completed, the device unlocks after 1-3 minutes.
Drainage - allows you to remove excess water from the machine without rotating the drum.
Anti-crease protection - performed at the end of any type of wash. The drum rotates at a speed of 30 rpm, which reduces the possibility of creasing.
Spin with intervals - the spin process is repeated several times with pauses. At the same time, each time the drum rotates at a higher speed.
Water stop - this function allows you to remove the laundry before the end of washing and draining the water. This way, washed items will not have time to wrinkle.
Start timer - with its help you can set the washing to start after a certain time. You can set the time from 1 to 24 hours. Useful for those who have two-tariff electricity calculations. With this type of calculation, washing at night will cost less.

Rating of the TOP 5 best models

Place	Name	Price
TOP 5 best washing machines
1	Samsung WW65K42E08W	25 000 ₽
2	Bosch WLL 2426 S	29 000 ₽
3	LG Steam F2M5HS4W	22 000 ₽
4	Candy GVS 34 126 TC2/2	18 000 ₽
5	Electrolux EW7F3R48SI	54 000 ₽

The best washing machines

Samsung WW65K42E08W

A washing machine in a classic white casing with a convenient front-loading option is ideal for a large family.

The drum consists of stainless steel, rotates up to 1200 rpm and holds up to 6.5 kg of dirty laundry.

The machine consumes up to 39 liters of water per cycle. The device is equipped with 12 useful washing programs, including for delicate fabrics, black items, and children's clothing.

It is possible to reload laundry through an auxiliary hatch.

Convenient electronic control on a digital display is intuitive for any user.

The case is partially protected from leaks, there is also a child lock and control over the amount of foam.

Specifications:

energy consumption class - A;
spin - up to 1200 rpm;
noise - 54/73 dB;
size - 60*45*84 cm;
weight - 57 kg.

pros

there is a 15 minute mode;
additional hatch for reloading laundry;
low price;
washes efficiently;
low noise level when washing;
There is a steam washing function.

Minuses

small things get stuck between the glass and the rubber seal - socks, etc.;
when spinning, it vibrates and buzzes strongly;
the washing time cannot be adjusted;
When the power is turned off, the machine starts the program again.

Bosch WLL 2426 S

Free-standing washing machine in a stylish silver shade, which can load up to 7 kg of laundry.

In one washing cycle it can consume up to 42 liters of water and consume electricity up to 0.13 kWh/kg.

The arsenal includes convenient spin modes - selecting speed and canceling the program.

The car boasts a complete security system, including a child lock.

A choice of as many as 17 programs will help make washing better and more convenient..

Additional features include temperature selection, as well as a cycle completion signal.

Characteristics:

energy consumption class - A+++;
spin - up to 1200 rpm;
noise - 56/77 dB;
size - 60*45*85 cm;
weight - 63 kg.

pros

convenient electronic control;
stylish appearance;
spacious drum;
low noise level when washing;
saves water and energy;
there is a timer.

Minuses

strong vibration and buzzing during spinning;
Not all cars have a full Aquastop system; this parameter must be checked in the store.

LG Steam F2M5HS4W

Device for washing clothes with convenient front loading . Maximum

drum capacity - 7 kg.

Through the main hatch, you can reproduce an additional load of laundry during washing. The washing machine has an inverter motor with direct drive.

The device spends up to 48 liters of water per wash.

The rotation speed during the spin program is 1200 rpm, it is possible to select the desired value for the user.

The security system does not have a leakage system, but there is imbalance control, the amount of foam and a child lock..

The product's arsenal includes 14 washing programs, including steam supply and stain removal.

Characteristics:

energy consumption class - A;
spin - up to 1200 rpm;
noise - 55/74 dB;
size - 60*45*85 cm;
weight - 60 kg.

pros

washes and spins quietly;
large capacity - optimal for a large family;
a large number of programs;
does not jump during operation.

Minuses

difficult to choose a washing mode;
Water remains in the rubber seal.

Candy GVS 34 126 TC2/2

Large freestanding front loading washing machine.

Consumes up to 48 liters of water per wash.

Excellent energy saving, has an A++ energy efficiency class . The tank is made of durable stainless steel and holds up to 6 kg of laundry.

Any user can understand the convenient electronic control on the symbolic display.

The energy consumed by the machine is 0.15 kWh/kg . The security system is complete and also includes control over the amount of foam.

15 special washing modes include programs for wool, children's clothing, jeans, as well as super-rinse, pre-wash, steam and much more.

Characteristics:

energy consumption class - A++;
spin - up to 1200 rpm;
noise - 56/77 dB;
size - 60*34*85 cm;
weight - 60.5 kg.

pros

big drum;
low noise level when washing;
does not shake when spinning;
comfortable handle;
There are rubber feet included;
notification about the end of the program.

Minuses

no boiling, maximum temperature - 75 degrees;
no spin adjustment;
Can't be pushed close to the wall.

Electrolux EW7F3R48SI

Built-in automatic washing machine with front loading . The device can

load up to 8 kg of laundry.

The spin speed of the drum is 1400 rpm, and the speed can be adjusted or the program can be canceled altogether.

Leakage protection system - complete, including child lock.

The washing machine has 14 washing programs, as well as a delay timer, temperature selection and a finish signal.

Characteristics:

energy consumption class - A+++;
spin - up to 1400 rpm;
noise - 46/68 dB;
size - 60*54*82 cm;
weight - 82 kg.

pros

Beautiful design;
washes quickly;
many additional options;
low noise level;
roomy.

Minuses

very high price;
You can hear the pump running while filling water.

The best washing machines and dryers

LG Steam F4J6TG1W

The drum in this model “knows” several rotation algorithms, for better adaptation to different types of fabric and degree of contamination.

A special “add laundry” button makes it possible to add items in the process.

The modes are designed for any fabric, there is an imitation of hand washing.

Characteristics:

loading: front, up to 8 kg;
motor: inverter;
control: buttons/sensor/mechanical;
temperature: 20-95 degrees;
water consumption: 105 l;
noise: 54 dB;
programs: 12;
dimensions: 60*85*56 cm.

Advantages:

ideal washing quality;
after drying, things can be immediately put in the closet;
large loading hatch.

Flaws:

overall;
consumes a lot of water;
When dried, some things shrink.

Hotpoint-Ariston FDD 9640 B

A first-class washing machine from a world-famous brand. The model has a large capacity – up to 9 kg. The problem of drying clothes with this device will be solved forever.

There are nine operating modes for different types of fabrics.

Spin speed - up to 1,500 rpm . Water and electricity are consumed very economically.

Characteristics:

loading: front, up to 9 kg;
motor: inverter;
controls: buttons;
temperature: 20-90 degrees;
water consumption: 49 l;
noise: 53 dB;
programs: 9;
dimensions: 60*85*60 cm.

Advantages:

quality of washing and drying;
the powder is completely rinsed out of the fabric;
roomy;
self-cleaning mode.

Flaws:

sometimes the laundry comes out too dry, it is better to adjust the drying time manually;
small selection of operating modes;
no custom program settings.

Electrolux EW7WR368SR

A front-loading washer-dryer dries clothes efficiently and treats them with hot steam for hygienic purposes.

The built-in display provides control of all processes.

For precise setting of parameters there is a convenient touch control.

There is a special regime for caring for the things of allergy sufferers and children.

Characteristics:

loading: front, up to 8 kg;
motor: inverter;
controls: buttons;
temperature: 0-90 degrees;
water consumption: 97 l;
noise: 51 dB;
programs: 14;
dimensions: 60*85*57 cm.

Advantages:

modern design;
large loading hatch with magnetic lock;
large and clear display;
steam treatment;
weighing laundry before washing.

Flaws:

high water consumption;
complex controls;
there is no protection for the hose from leaks.

Weissgauff WMD 4148 D

A budget and small-sized option for a washer-dryer. Despite its modest size, it can hold up to 8 kg of things. The maximum spin speed is also impressive - up to 1,400 rpm.

A large list of programs for different needs will satisfy any requests.

Has built-in protection against power surges.

A quick wash only takes 15 minutes.

Characteristics:

loading: front, up to 8 kg;
engine: normal;
control: buttons/mechanical;
temperature: 0-90 degrees;
water consumption: 97 l;
noise: 51 dB;
programs: 14;
dimensions: 60*85*57 cm.

Advantages:

child lock;
protection against power surges;
the ability to configure individual washing parameters;
remembers the program when the power is turned off.

Flaws:

plastic tank;
noisy engine;
whistles when drying clothes.

Indesit XWDA 751680X W

The washing machine is equipped with 16 washing programs for different fabrics. The drum volume is designed for 7 kg, the water temperature can be adjusted manually, as well as the number of spin revolutions, as well as the drying time.

If the hatch door is not tightly closed, an audible signal will sound..

Equipped with high-quality protection against possible leaks for your safety.

Characteristics: