Washing Machine Buying Guide
Choosing a washing machine goes beyond measuring your laundry space. Today's machines pack advanced features and smart technology, making selection challenging. You must weigh energy costs against upfront price and decide between front loaders, top loaders, or combo units.
Let us guide you through selecting your ideal washing machine. We'll explain how design, size, features, and efficiency affect performance. Take time to evaluate which capabilities matter most to your household.
Types of Washing Machines
Choosing the right washing machine starts with selecting the type: top loader, front loader, or washer-dryer combo. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks, so understanding their differences can help you make the best choice for your home.
Budget-Friendly
Generally more affordable than front loaders and washer-dryer combos.
Easy Loading & Unloading
No need to bend down to access the drum.
Larger Capacity
Ideal for bulky items like blankets and towels.
Horizontal drum accessed from the front
Front Loaders
Best for Efficiency & Performance
Water & Energy Efficient
Uses less water and detergent while spinning faster to help reduce drying time.
Space-Saving
Can be stacked with a dryer, freeing up space in smaller laundries
Gentler on Clothes
The tumbling action reduces wear and tear compared to agitator-style top loaders.
Quieter Operation
More efficient spinning means less vibration and noise.
Both types have unique cleaning strengths, so your choice will depend on space, budget, and laundry habits.
Combine washing and drying functions into a single unit
Washer-Dryer Combos
Best for Small Spaces
Space-Efficient
Ideal for apartments or small laundries with limited room.
Convenient
No need to transfer clothes between machines.
Energy & Water Saving
Many models use advanced heat pump technology for more efficient drying.
Things to Consider: Washer-dryer combos typically have a smaller capacity than standalone washers and dryers, and drying cycles may take longer. However, for those with limited space, the convenience can outweigh these trade-offs.
Choosing the Right Size
The washing machine capacity you need is based on how many loads of laundry you wash on a regular basis. Capacity is determined by the size of the drum. Choosing a machine with a larger capacity than you need may make laundry faster and more convenient for you, but if you also have space limitations to consider, then you may need to choose something that fits your needs more closely.
|
Capacity |
Load Example |
Best Use |
|---|---|---|
|
Small - up to 7.5Kg |
25 - 30 t-shirts or 1 doona |
Two people |
|
Medium - up to 9.5Kg |
40 - 50 t-shirts or 1 queen doona |
Small family |
|
Large - 10-11.5Kg |
50 t-shirts or king doona |
Large family |
|
Ultra-Large - 12Kg + |
Washable rugs and other extra large items |
Extra large or unique laundry loads |
The larger the capacity of your machine, the more you can wash in a single load - however, larger machines may also consume more power, so it’s worth balancing your capacity needs and your energy bill.
Water & Energy Efficiency
In Australia, energy and water rating labels are required on all washing machines.
The six-star system ranks efficiency against similar models, with top performers earning 5-6 stars. Labels display yearly kilowatt consumption for clear cost comparison.
Samsung's 9kg Front Load Smart Washer with Steam Wash Cycle leads with its 5-star rating. Samsung machines typically use 39-53 liters per wash, matching other water-efficient brands.
Samsung integrates additional eco-technology in their machines. BubbleWash™ cleans deeply at lower temperatures by pre-mixing water and detergent. AI Energy Mode optimizes cycles to reduce power use, while Auto Dispense prevents detergent waste by measuring exact amounts needed per load.
Key Features to Consider
Performance
Different washing machine model types may perform better at certain tasks, or have different functions which may make them better suited to your needs. Here are a few performance factors to consider.
Spin Speed
• A more powerful spin speed makes drying faster, as more moisture is removed
• A variety of spin speeds means better control over drying
• Slower speeds are better for delicate items
• Front loaders often have faster spin speeds than top loaders
Noise
• If your laundry is near a bedroom or living area, consider choosing a quieter model
• Quieter machines are best for small homes or apartments
• Noise can be caused by vibrations from the machine, drum rotation, or by water during the wash cycle
Allergy Friendly
• Some models are certified allergy friendly by organisations like the British Allergy Foundation
• Include specialised deep clean settings to help remove allergens
Deep Cleaning Modes
• Includes a range of standard modes like Bedding, Wool, and Cotton
• Innovative modes like Baby Care Mode, which washes on very high temperatures to help sanitise clothes
Tech Innovations
Samsung washing machines come with the latest and greatest in laundry technology. Some of these features include:
App Connectivity
• Some models are compatible with the SmartThings app, allowing remote access via your compatible smartphone.
• Troubleshoot issues and get cycle recommendations with SmartThings
• Manage cycles as they are completed
Auto Dispense
• Senses and dispenses the correct amount of detergent for easier cleaning and less waste
• Can hold up to a month’s worth of detergent
AI Integration
• AI Wash can detect and automatically set the right cycle for each load, and adjust as the cycle goes
• Link your washing machine to a compatible dryer for enhanced pattern learning though Auto Cycle Link
• AI Energy Mode saves power and water through optimising for a more efficient wash cycle
Budgeting and Pricing
Washing machines come in a fairly wide range of prices, with different features available at different price points. Budget washing machines start at around $500, with midrange models costing around $1000 and premium models priced at over $1,500. Samsung offers washing machines starting at $999 and going up to $2,299, which means you are guaranteed a premium quality product with various smart features.
When choosing a new washing machine, it’s worth considering the upfront cost and the ongoing costs of running the appliance. Cheaper washing machines might be more affordable initially, but may be less energy efficient or durable, which can be more costly in the long run. Also, many premium washing machines have functions like auto dispensing detergent, eco-friendly modes, and AI powered energy modes, which can also help lower the running costs of your machine.
Space and Installation Considerations
One of the most important considerations you’ll need to make when choosing a new washing machine is space. If you don’t have a lot of space to work with, it can feel like you need to make compromises to performance, but that isn’t always the case.
Front loaders are often smaller than top loaders, and can be installed in cupboards or other smaller spaces with relative ease. They can also be stacked with a dryer to save space. Another great way to save space is to choose a washer-dryer combo. These models remove the need for a separate dryer, and are particularly useful for apartments with limited drying options or space.
Installations Tips
• Follow any instruction manuals provided
• Remove transit bolts (for front loaders) or any other protective packaging before using your new machine
• Make sure your machine is level before using it, to avoid damage or excess noise
• Check the hose for any leaks by running the tap for a few minutes before running a cycle
• Find a technician to help you if you feel unsure about installing your machine by yourself
Common Buying Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing a Noisy Machine
If you live in a smaller house or an apartment, you may have less space options for where to install your machine. If the machine will be located near your living or sleeping areas, consider how loud it is before buying.
Choosing the Wrong Capacity
You’ll need a washing machine that can handle as much laundry as you or your family produces. If you live with more than one person, consider what capacity would work best for you. It's generally better to choose a washing machine with a larger capacity than what you need.
Unnecessary Features
Modern washing machines come with a wide variety of smart features to help with different tasks and problems. While this can all be helpful, it's worth considering what features you’ll actually need or use. Consider how you use your washing machine and what your unique cleaning needs are.
Choosing the Wrong Size
It may seem obvious, but buying a washing machine that is too big for your laundry space does happen. Make sure you measure your laundry room and washing machine space carefully and take into account all dimensions of the appliance.
Conclusion
Before buying your next washing machine, it’s important to know what models are available and how each type can meet your cleaning needs. Front loaders and top loaders work in slightly different ways, which can impact your wash, and different models have different features and cycle modes that can help with a range of laundry tasks. It’s a lot to consider, but picking a machine with the right capacity, cost, energy efficiency, smart features, and design is vital to getting the best cleaning results possible.
For more information about specific laundry questions, like what type of dryer is best for you, check out the articles linked in this guide.
