Buying a washing machine is not an easy task. The available price range is wide and the options are many. New innovations keep appearing, and you need to know which features you should take into account in order to choose the best washing machine for you.

➡ And before we answer all of that, don’t forget that with purchase through Skroutz you get: 

• Free delivery to your floor (yes, even to the 5th floor).
• Free returns if you change your mind.
• 2-year warranty for every eventuality (repair, replacement, or refund) so you can have peace of mind. 
• After-sales support for whatever you need after your purchase.

In short, you buy without stress.

So, let’s now go through everything in detail, so that every question is answered!

1. Type: Front-loading or top-loading?

The first and most important decision you need to make concerns the type of washing machine. The choice mainly depends on the available space in your home, as well as your habits.

➡ Front-loading washing machines are the most popular on the market, and for good reason, as they offer a variety of advantages, such as the following:

• Capacity: They usually offer greater capacity, ideal for families.
• Performance: They wash clothes more effectively and more gently at the same time, as the washing is done with the drum’s rotational movement, utilizing the friction between clothes.
• Consumption: They are more economical in water and electricity compared to other types.
• Space: You can place them under the kitchen or bathroom counter, or even put a dryer on top to save space.

Choose this if: you have a family, want top washing performance and efficiency, and have enough space for the door to open.

➡ Top-loading washing machines, on the other hand, are the ideal solution for small and narrow spaces, thanks to the following:

• Dimensions: They are narrower (usually around 40-45 cm wide) and fit where front-loading machines cannot.
• Ease of use: You don’t need to bend down to load or unload clothes, making them ideal for people with musculoskeletal problems.
• Safety: The door can be opened during the wash cycle (in most models) to add a forgotten item.

Choose this if: your space is very limited or if you have difficulty bending down.

2. Capacity

The capacity of a washing machine is measured in kilograms. This is something we all know! What you may not know is that it refers to the weight of dry clothes and is one of the most important criteria. The choice depends on how many people are in your household and how often you do laundry.

In the table below, you can see approximately how many people each capacity can cover, as well as recommended amounts of clothing.

SkroutzTip: Don't overload the drum! Clothes need space to move and get properly cleaned. A slightly larger washing machine that doesn't always operate at maximum load is often a better investment.

3. Energy Class

Since March 2021, energy labels have changed. The scale is now from A to G, with A being the most efficient. Forget about A+, A++, and A+++.

• What does this mean in practice? A class A washing machine can consume up to 50% less energy than a class G one. This translates into significant savings on your electricity bill in the long run.

• New Label: On the label, you will see, in addition to the energy class, the energy consumption (in kWh per 100 washing cycles), water consumption (in liters per cycle), capacity, the duration of the "Eco 40-60" program, and the noise level during spinning (in dB) along with the noise class (A-D).

SkroutzTip: Invest in a washing machine with a high energy class. The initial cost may be slightly higher, but you will recoup it through lower bills.

⬇ Below you can learn everything about washing machine energy labels and how to decode them:

4. Spin Speeds (RPM)

The spin speeds are measured per minute (RPM) and determine how effectively the washing machine spins clothes, removing moisture.

• The most common option is 1000-1200 RPM. Spinning at these speeds leaves clothes dry enough to be hung out and dry quickly in a natural way.
• On the other hand, spinning at 1400-1600 RPM is ideal if you use a dryer, as clothes come out with much less moisture. This means the dryer will need less time and energy to complete the process.
• Finally, in more budget-friendly models, you usually find speeds below 1000 RPM. In these cases, clothes will need more time to air dry.

SkroutzTip: High spin speeds are not suitable for all fabrics. Delicate clothes (e.g. wool, silk) need to be spun at lower speeds to avoid damage.

Considering that in our country we have sun and warmth for more than half the year, washing machines with 1,000 RPM offer good value for money. However, if you often use a dryer, it’s better to invest in a washing machine with more than 1,200 RPM. The extra cost of the washing machine will be offset by lower dryer bills.

Washing machine - dryer in one?

Our country may be blessed with plenty of sunshine, but sometimes when we’re pressed for time and the weather doesn’t help, a washing machine - dryer is ideal. 

• Among the advantages of the appliance is, of course, the convenience of drying clothes without needing space to install a separate dryer. 
• However, one of the disadvantages is that the washing machine - dryer cannot dry the same amount of clothes as a separate dryer, because the drum is smaller. You may need to remove half the load after washing to ensure proper drying.

If you’re interested in a separate clothes dryer, check out this guide to the best dryers!

5. Dimensions & Placement

Accurately measuring your space is one of the most important steps before buying a washing machine, so you can avoid unpleasant surprises on installation day.

• Measure precisely the available width, depth, and height in the area where the washing machine will be placed. Don’t rely only on the nominal dimensions provided by stores – add an extra 2–3 centimeters for pipes and ventilation.
• Calculate the space needed for the door to open if you choose a front-loading model. If the space is narrow, make sure the door won’t hit the wall or any furniture.
• For small spaces, there are slim washing machines with a depth of 40–45 cm, which can be placed more easily. This doesn’t necessarily mean they will be much smaller in capacity than others.
• If you are thinking of placing the washing machine under a kitchen counter, pay attention to the height (it usually needs to be 82–85 cm). Although the majority of washing machines on the market are mainly freestanding, you can also find built-in washing machines with a removable lid for better fit.
• Consider where the water supply and drainage are located: a washing machine needs easy access and proper drainage to operate without problems.
• Finally, make sure there is a stable and level floor, because if the washing machine doesn’t “sit” properly, it may vibrate or make noise during spinning.

7. Programs and Other Useful Details

With the advancement of technology, washing machines have transformed into smart devices that take initiatives to make our lives easier. So, let's look at some innovations:

• One of the most fundamental "smart" functions is the automatic recognition of washing data, such as automatic weighing. Thanks to special sensors that detect the weight of the load and the degree of soiling, the appropriate amount of water and detergent is used.

• Many washing machines now have their own app and connect to the internet so you can control them at any time. Through the app, you can remotely give the command to start washing or set a specific time for it to begin. Naturally, you can adjust all its functions and programs from your mobile.

• Every modern washing machine should include in its programs a quick wash, usually 30 minutes, to save time and consumption, depending on your needs.

• Many washing machines have a larger door opening for easier unloading of the load. Also, check from which side the door opens. If your washing machine will be placed in a corner, this detail is particularly important.

• The noise of washing and spinning is an indicator that cannot leave you indifferent. Check in advance the noise levels and the anti-vibration capability of the device, as well as the ability for the drum to remain stable at high spin speeds.

For low noise levels, choose a washing machine that produces 75 db and below during the spinning process.

• Another ranking indicator recently added by the European Union is the spin efficiency. This efficiency is determined by letters from A (more efficient spin) to G (less efficient).

• Also, it is useful for devices to provide autonomous functions for temperature, spin speed, and rinse settings, which you can select manually according to your needs.

• Some washing machines use less water compared to others. You can find information about water consumption on the device's energy label.

• High-temperature steam technology is a significant innovation in modern washing machines, as it promises more hygienic and effective washing, removing allergens and tough stains without damaging fabrics. It is considered ideal for children's and baby clothes as it also disinfects.

• Washing machines with dual water supply have the ability to draw water that is already hot (from the solar water heater, for example), saving energy and money.

The programming function of the washing machine is also useful so you can shift the start time and/or take advantage of the night operation schedule.

7. Warranty – lifespan – after sales

Get informed about the procedure followed in case of malfunction, the duration of the warranty, and the expected lifespan of the washing machine.

An important factor in every purchase of an electrical appliance is the reliability of the brand. Surely, the washing machine is not the first appliance you are buying. So, which brand did you trust in the past and were satisfied with? Trust it again!

Don't forget! By considering the above individual characteristics and combining those that suit your needs, you can arrive at the ideal choice for you. Before deciding, you can also take a look at other users' reviews to see their opinions and experiences, which can help you reach a final decision much more easily.

Discover also the guide to the best washing machines on Skroutz, as well as our new category with exhibition and stock washing machines, at the best prices!