Buying Guide
Washing Machine Buying Guide
How to Choose the Right Washing Machine for Your Home
Compare washing machine types, capacities and useful features so you can find a model that suits your laundry, household and washing routine.
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Start With Your Laundry Space
Measure before comparing models. A washing machine needs to fit the laundry space, connect correctly and still allow comfortable loading access.
Width – measure the available opening at several points.
Height – check under-bench space or clearance above a top loader.
Depth – allow for hoses and fittings behind the machine.
Loading clearance – allow the front door or top lid to open fully.
Connections – check water, drainage and power are within suitable reach.
Smart Tip
Measure loading clearance as well as the appliance cavity. A front loader needs room for the door to swing open, while a top loader needs clear space above the lid.
Household size isn’t everything.
Bedding, towels, workwear and sports gear can justify a larger capacity even in a smaller household.
What Capacity Do You Need?
Use capacity as a starting point, then adjust for how often you wash, whether you regularly wash bedding and how large your typical loads are.
Household Starting Capacity Worth Considering
1–2 people 6–7.5kg Everyday or compact loads
2–3 people 7.5–8.5kg Regular household washing
3–4 people 8.5–10kg Family loads, towels and bedding
5+ people 10kg+ Larger or bulk washing loads
Choose Your Washing Machine Type
The best format depends on your laundry space, loading preference, wash habits and whether you also need drying.
Front Loader
A front-opening drum that can suit under-bench laundries and households wanting broad program choice and fabric-care features.
Best for: under-bench installations, water-conscious buyers and flexible wash programs.
Check: Allow room for the door to open and check the depth including hoses.
Top Loader
Loads from above, making it convenient for people who prefer standing-height access and a straightforward everyday laundry routine.
Best for: easy loading, households that prefer top access and larger open laundry spaces.
Check: You need clear space above the lid, so overhead cabinetry can matter.
Washer Dryer Combo
Combines washing and drying in one appliance footprint, making it useful where there is no room for a separate dryer.
Best for: apartments, smaller laundries and buyers wanting all-in-one convenience.
Check: Wash and dry capacities are often different, so compare both figures.
Laundry Centre
A vertically integrated washer and dryer system with separate drums, giving you dedicated washing and drying without using extra floor width.
Best for: tall narrow laundries and households wanting separate wash and dry functions.
Check: Measure total height carefully and confirm installation clearances.
Compact Washer
A smaller-capacity format for lighter loads or laundries where full-size dimensions are difficult to accommodate.
Best for: apartments, secondary laundries, smaller households and frequent light loads.
Check: Compact refers to size or capacity, so always confirm the exact dimensions.
Washing Machine Types at a Glance
A quick way to compare the formats that best match your laundry, loading preference and drying needs.
| Washer Type | Typical Capacity | Loading Style | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Front Loader | 6kg–12kg+ | Front | Under-bench layouts and flexible programs | Door swing and appliance depth |
| Top Loader | 6kg–14kg+ | Top | Easy standing-height loading | Clearance above the lid |
| Washer Dryer Combo | Varies by model | Front | One-appliance wash and dry convenience | Dry capacity may be lower than wash capacity |
| Laundry Centre | Varies by unit | Front | Separate wash and dry functions in a vertical setup | Overall height and installation access |
| Compact Washer | Generally smaller capacity | Varies | Limited spaces and lighter loads | Confirm actual width, depth and capacity |
Features Worth Comparing
Focus on features that match the way your household actually washes rather than simply choosing the machine with the longest program list.
Quick Wash
Useful for smaller or lightly soiled loads when you need a faster turnaround.
Steam & Hygiene
Selected machines include steam-assisted or hygiene-focused cycles for specific laundry needs.
Auto Dosing
Compatible models can automatically dispense detergent, reducing the need to measure every load manually.
Smart Connectivity
Some washers offer app controls, cycle notifications, diagnostics or additional downloadable programs.
Specialised Cycles
Compare the programs you will actually use, such as bedding, wool, delicates, sportswear or baby care.
Load Sensing
Selected models can adjust water or cycle behaviour based on the load, helping automate everyday washing.
Washer Dryer Buyer Check
Do not assume the wash and dry capacities are the same. A combo may wash a larger load than it can dry in one cycle, so check both specifications before buying.
FAQs
What size washing machine do I need?
The right capacity depends on how much laundry you normally wash, not household size alone. Smaller households may suit a 7kg to 8kg washer, while families or households regularly washing towels and bedding may benefit from 9kg, 10kg or larger models.
Is a front loader or top loader better?
Neither format is automatically better. Front loaders can suit under-bench installations and are often chosen for water efficiency and fabric care, while top loaders provide convenient standing-height access and can suit households that prefer loading from above.
What should I measure before buying a washing machine?
Measure the available width, height and depth, then allow room for hoses and fittings. Front loaders also need door-opening clearance, while top loaders need enough space above the lid.
What does washing machine capacity mean?
Capacity is measured in kilograms and refers to the amount of dry laundry the machine is designed to wash in a rated load. Use the figure as a guide and consider bulky items such as bedding and towels as well.
Is a washer dryer combo worth considering?
A washer dryer combo can be useful when you want washing and drying in one appliance footprint. Check the wash and dry capacities separately because the drying capacity is commonly lower than the washing capacity.
What spin speed should I look for?
Higher spin speeds can remove more water from suitable fabrics before the wash finishes, which can reduce later drying time. Adjustable spin settings are useful because delicate loads may need gentler treatment.
What should I check when buying a factory second washing machine?
Check the individual appliance condition, capacity, loading type, door or lid, controls, drum, detergent drawer, exterior panels, included accessories and applicable warranty information before buying.
Ready to Shop?
Find the Right Washing Machine
Compare current washing machines, capacities, loading types, brands and available stock online or visit your nearest Smart Electrical store.
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