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.
Lists of the best!
Many people come to the store knowing exactly what kind of fiction they want to get from the equipment. Our rating of washing machines in terms of quality and reliability highlights several of the best devices designed for a specific set of options.
Best top load washing machine – Electrolux EWT 1064 ILW
A good model, it washes any fabric perfectly, up to 6 kg of laundry is allowed at a time. It is possible to adjust the process time, depending on how much water or electricity needs to be saved. There are additional options: easy to iron, night mode, rinse, water stop. It ranks among washing machines, costing 28,500 rubles.
Characteristics:
- loading type – vertical;
- Max. loading – 6 kg;
- drying - no;
- weight – 58 kg;
- dimensions – 40/60/89 cm.
There are no problems, the laundry washes well, the machine is compact and beautiful. The only negative is that it is noisy, but this price is for saving. All functions work well, controls are clear.
Best washer-dryer – Vestfrost VFWD 1460S
High quality, reliability, versatility, unusual design for an adequate price - 53,000 rubles. Will compete with any expensive model. Loading capacity is 8 kg, drying capacity is 6 kg.
Characteristics:
- loading type – front;
- Max. loading – 8 kg;
- drying – yes;
- weight – 78 kg;
- dimensions – 60/58/85 cm.
At first we thought of taking something simpler, but we fell in love with this model as soon as the consultant showed it in the store. A nice bonus is drying, which allows you to load 6 kg at once. At first, for some reason, it smelled like rubber, but soon everything went away. Incredibly pleased.
The best premium washing machine – Miele WDB 020 W1 Classic
The company has long earned the trust of users, as it has been on the market for several years. Guaranteed quality and reliability. Excellent washing results, works silently, will last a very long time. A set of universal options for all occasions, excellent design. Water tanks are made of eco-friendly material – stainless steel. Price – 109,500 rubles.
Specifications:
- loading type – front;
- Max. loading – 7 kg;
- drying - no;
- weight – 90 kg;
- dimensions – 60/64/85 cm.
In my opinion, for such a famous German brand this is a very good price. I’m used to always taking the most expensive things so that the equipment serves for a long time and properly. Its capabilities suit my requirements perfectly.
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.
How to choose?
If you have decided what function the machine should perform and what price you are willing to pay, feel free to start making your choice. If this kind of purchase is your first time, and you don’t know which washing machine is better to buy, which brand to give preference to, and what criteria a good durable machine has, this section is just for you.
It is important to pay attention to the following factors:
- Load type. You have to choose between front loading and vertical loading. The latter are produced much less frequently and do not allow the machine to be used as a stand for powder and soap. Front ones are in great demand, but require more space. The quality of washing does not change at all.
- Dimensions. Standard sizes – width 85, height 60 cm. Good capacity, deep drum, suitable for a home with a large kitchen or bathroom. If there is nowhere to place such a unit, there are super-narrow models with a height of only 70 cm.
- Engine and capacity. The inventory motor is especially popular; its service life is more than 6 years. It works quietly and performs a large number of options. The capacity is selected depending on how much dry laundry is planned to be washed at a time. On average, 6 kg is allowed.
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 ₽ |
Which machine to choose – full-size or narrow?
If the size of the bathroom or kitchen allows you to purchase a machine of standard sizes, then you can choose models with dimensions of 85x60x58 cm. But the majority of the population lives in standard small-sized apartments, where the bathroom is not at all striking in size.
Choosing a washing machine
In this case, the best solution would be a compact automatic washing machine, the depth of which is approximately 32 cm. Naturally, you cannot load 7 kg of laundry into such a washing machine, as in a standard one; its limit is 4 kg. However, such washing machines have quite a lot of advantages:
- Many models have a vertical method of loading laundry, which is very convenient in a small bathroom.
- You can turn the top-loading unit towards the wall on any of three sides.
- Those models with horizontal loading of laundry can be installed under the sink.
In 2021, compact automatic washing machines can be found in the range of the following:
- Zanussi;
- Indesit;
- Bosch;
- LG;
- Ariston;
- Miele;
- Samsung;
- Candy
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.
Specifications
When trying to understand which models are the best: vertical or frontal, it is worth taking into account other criteria that washing machines have.
Before purchasing equipment, you should ask what characteristics the model you like is equipped with. Because the presence of one specific program or function that is not so important for you can increase the cost of the device.
When choosing, pay attention to the following parameters:
- tank capacity;
- spin class;
- washing class;
- energy consumption class;
- types of washing programs;
- additional functions;
- country, manufacturer, brand;
- reviews from experts.
To decide which washing machine is best to buy, it’s worth understanding in more detail what these indicators are.
Optimal capacity
An important criterion when choosing equipment is the capacity of its tank. It is determined in kilograms. Most modern devices are equipped with a drum with a loading capacity of up to 6 kg. This means that the owner of the equipment has the opportunity to load no more than 6 kilograms of laundry per wash.
If you exceed the permissible limit, your machine will refuse to start the wash cycle.
For your information, one set of bed linen weighs about 2 kg. If you don't plan to wash heavier items, such as duvets or winter outerwear, then you shouldn't overpay for more expensive models. You can choose a narrow washing machine, for example, from Beko, with a maximum allowable load of dry laundry of 5 kg, or Indesit, with a capacity of 4 kg. Both of these manufacturers set relatively affordable prices for their products.
Of course, if you plan to wash a lot, and periodically also blankets, rugs and pillows, then consider machines with a capacity of 7 kg and above. Just keep in mind: the higher this figure, the higher the cost of the unit will be.
Energy saving class
Absolutely any modern washing machine has its own energy efficiency class.
Generation of cars until 2010: markings were carried out with letters of the English alphabet from A to G.
New generation units:
- A+++ - the most economical;
- A++;
- A+;
- A;
- B;
- C;
- D is the highest energy consumption level.
As you might guess, the most economical devices are those that have an A+++ energy consumption class. But do not rush to succumb to pressure from manufacturers. Obviously, when your refrigerator runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week without interruption, it makes sense to choose the lowest energy consumption level. Of course, in this case the savings will be noticeable. But what about a washing machine that you use 2-3 times a week?
Energy saving classes of washing machines
The average time it takes for equipment to wash, rinse and spin clothes is about one and a half to two hours. How significant will the savings be for your wallet in this case? If you do not have the opportunity to overpay for a model equipped with class A+++, opt for A. Moreover, many modern devices, even from the budget category, have this particular energy efficiency class.
Washing class
Washing classes, as well as energy efficiency, are indicated by letters borrowed from the English alphabet:
- A;
- IN;
- WITH;
- D;
- E;
- F.
There are six classes in total. The method for determining the quality of washing was recorded in 1995. Its principle is very similar to advertising washing powder. A piece of fabric having an approved size and dirt is loaded into the washing machine, and a one-hour wash is started at 60 degrees. A technique that can wash this flap better than the existing standard is assigned class A. If the quality does not differ in any way from the standard, then B.
Washing machine washing classes
It is worth noting that it is almost impossible to notice the difference with the naked eye. But after repeated washing, it will be possible to see something. However, so many years have passed since this technique was proposed, and so much has happened: new powders have appeared, new equipment equipped with advanced technologies, that almost all automatic washing machines are currently assigned class A. The only exceptions are rare specimens.
Spin class
This indicator is similar to the washing class and is determined according to international standards. The spin class is a parameter that indicates the number of drum revolutions per minute at the time of spinning the laundry. The highest level corresponds to the English letter A, it is assigned if no more than 45% moisture remains in the laundry that has undergone this procedure. This class corresponds to more than 1500 rpm.
Spin classes
But think about it, do you really need your machine to spin the drum with such intensity, because you will have to pay a lot for a high rate? And this is not the only negative point that you get for relatively “dry” laundry. You will have to sacrifice its appearance.
After spinning at such speeds, the clothes are unlikely to look good; you will have to make a lot of effort to iron them and give them a decent look.
Let's see which class corresponds to the residual percentage of moisture in the laundry and the number of revolutions:
- A - over 1500 rpm - 45%;
- B - 1200-1500 rpm - 54% or less;
- C - 1000-1200 rpm - 63% or less;
- D - 800-1000 rpm - 72% or less;
- E - 600-800 rpm - 81% or less;
- F - 400-600 rpm - 90% or less;
- G - no more than 400 rpm - more than 90%.
Most modern washing machines have a spin class of C or B.
Types of programs
Many people probably remember that just a dozen years ago, washing machines could not boast the same functionality as they do now. Housewives had only 2-3 modes at their disposal, choosing between cotton, wool and delicate fabrics. Currently, almost every manufacturer of washing machines, be it Indesit, LG, Electrolux or Bosch, has awarded the equipment with such functionality that you really begin to believe in the need to have all the capabilities offered. Let's look at the most common modes most machines are equipped with:
- cotton mode;
- delicate wash or hand wash;
- quick wash;
- wool mode;
- duvet blanked;
- dark fabrics;
- sportswear;
- Kids' things;
- outerwear;
- hypoallergenic wash;
- steam wash;
- bed linen, etc.
Types of washing machine programs
However, reviews from experts indicate the opposite trend. Indeed, 99% of all users constantly use only a few modes. With their help, you can wash clothes from any type of fabric and any degree of soiling. Other programs are used based on personal wishes. But still, they help facilitate the process of washing clothes of a certain texture.
