Washing Machine Buying Guide

In this washing machine buying guide, experts at Hoover highlight the top considerations you need to make in order to find the perfect washing machine for you!

By exploring different models, features, and price tags, you can pinpoint the perfect machine that strikes a balance between top-notch performance, efficiency, and wallet-friendliness.

Below, learn everything there is to know about washing machines and the considerations you’ll need to make when shopping, including washing machine energy ratings, sound level, sizes, capacity, and extra features.

Types of washing machines

The three types of washing machines – freestanding washing machines, integrated washing machines, and washer dryers – each offer unique benefits and are designed to cater to different needs and spaces.

It’s essential to ensure the type of washing machine you choose will be compatible with your home's infrastructure, such as water supply and power outlets. Here's an overview of the three types of washing machines:

• Freestanding washing machines: These are the most common and versatile type of washing machines, as they can be placed anywhere in your home where there is a power source, water supply, and drainage system nearby. They come in a variety of sizes, capacities, and designs and can be moved easily if you relocate.
• Integrated washing machines: Integrated washing machines are designed to blend seamlessly with your kitchen or laundry room cabinetry. They are hidden behind a cabinet door, providing a streamlined and cohesive look to your space. However, they are typically more expensive than freestanding models and may have fewer design options and features.
• Washer dryers: Washer dryers are a combination of a washing machine and a dryer in one unit. They save space by eliminating the need for two separate appliances, making them ideal for small spaces. 

Key considerations when choosing a washing machine

A washing machine can be a considerable investment, and making a well-informed choice guarantees that you're getting the most bang for your buck. Before jumping into your washing machine shopping journey, we recommend taking the following four considerations into account when searching for the best option for you:

1. Washing machine energy rating

When looking for a new washing machine, don't forget to think about how energy efficient it is and how much water it uses. By checking out the washing machine energy rating on each machine you’re considering, you'll be doing your part for the environment and saving some cash on your bills, too!

Washing machine energy ratings are usually represented by letters ranging from A to G, with A being the most energy-efficient and G being the least energy-efficient.

The washing machine energy rating is based on factors like energy consumption, water usage, and overall performance. A machine with a higher energy rating will consume less energy and water, and it may be a more quiet washing machine as well.

2. Washing machine noise level

Loud washing machines can be particularly disruptive, especially in open-plan living spaces or smaller spaces where sound can easily travel. By choosing a quiet washing machine, you can maintain a more peaceful and relaxing living environment, especially if you work from home or have family members who love midday naps! In addition, the quietest washing machines tend to be more energy-efficient – it’s a win-win.

The noise level of a washing machine is typically measured in decibels (dB). The lower the decibel rating, the quieter the machine will be. A washing machine with a noise level below 50 dB during the washing cycle is generally considered to be one of the quietest laundry machines available.

By taking the noise level into account, you can make sure you’re choosing the perfect washing machine for your specific needs – which is especially important if, for example, you’re a new mum on the hunt for the most silent washing machine on the market!

3. Washing machine capacity

Next, it’s important to consider a washing machine's capacity when shopping for a new one because it determines the amount of laundry you can wash at a time. The right capacity can save you time, energy, water, and detergent by allowing you to wash more clothes in fewer loads.

Washing machine capacity is typically measured in kilograms (kg), and this indicates the weight or volume of dry clothes that can be accommodated in a single wash cycle.

The most common capacities range from 8 kg to 12 kg, with 9kg washing machines great for fitting into smaller spaces, while larger 12kg washing machines are the perfect choice for larger households looking to get through more laundry at once.

4. Washing machine features

The last major consideration in this washing machine buying guide is features. Below is a breakdown of the various features washing machines can have today, helping you to decide which features you can pass on and which features you simply can’t live without:

• Wash programmes: Different preset wash cycles designed for specific types of fabrics, stains, or levels of dirtiness. Common programmes include delicate, heavy-duty, and quick wash.
• Temperature control: The ability to adjust the water temperature for different wash cycles. Some machines offer a variety of temperature settings, while others have a few preset options.
• Delay start: A feature that allows you to set the washing machine to begin a wash cycle at a specific time in the future, often up to 24 hours in advance.
• Time remaining display: A digital display that shows the time remaining in the current wash cycle.
• Load sensing: The ability of the washing machine to detect the weight of the laundry and adjust the water level and wash cycle time accordingly, helping to save water and energy.
• Child lock: A safety feature that prevents children from accidentally changing the settings or opening the washing machine door during operation.
• Pre-wash and soak options: Features that allow you to pre-wash or soak your laundry before the main wash cycle, helping to remove stubborn stains and dirt.
• Steam cleaning: Some washing machines offer built-in steam cleaning options for deep cleaning and sanitising clothes.
• Wi-Fi connectivity: Some smart washing machines can connect to Wi-Fi, allowing you to control and monitor your laundry from your smartphone or through voice assistants like Amazon Alexa.

Best quiet washing machine

If you’re looking for the quietest washing machine out there with some of the best washing machine ratings on the market, you’ve come to the right place!

Hoover washing machines offer exceptional cleaning capabilities, guaranteed to leave your clothes, sheets, and garments looking and feeling fresh. We have A-rated washing machines in a selection of sizes with various programs and features for whatever your specific needs are!

Looking for insights on how to help lengthen the lifespan of your washing machine? Explore the Hoover blog today for more appliance tips, such as how to properly clean your machine. Ready to find the quietest washing machine of your dreams? Browse the full collection at Hoover today and make laundry time a breeze!