Confused about washing machines and how they differ? Then sit back and relax, because in this article we’ll be exploring the basics that everyone needs to know about budget models, and looking at what makes a quality washing machine worth owning.
Standard practice
If you’re wondering about size, and panicking slightly that the model you’re interested in won’t fit in your kitchen, then don’t worry too much. While width and depth are always prime considerations, most kitchens are set-up to accept a standard size of 60 by 40 by 90, so you shouldn’t have too many problems, as it just wouldn’t make sense for manufacturers to step outside the standard boundaries.
Budget models and all about them
Reasons for buying budget are many and plenty. You may be a new landlord with a number of properties to furnish, or a first time home-owner with a limited cash-flow. Either way, the washing machines in this spectrum cost anything from £150 for the very cheap to £250 for the more expensive.
With these machines, you obviously can’t expect the best, and even the most premium of them will still only carry a small capacity load of roughly 6kg. Features are minimal here, so if you’re looking for washing machines with anything more than basic programming functions then economy may be too much of a compromise on the quality you really need.
However, you should still be able to change the temperature of the wash, so that’s one bonus for these products to shout about.
Not quite luxury, but we’re getting there
As we enter the mid-range washing machines market that straddle the line between budget and luxury, a few things become clear. Here, you have many more options. You may not find yourself staring at a product of sheer engineering beauty, but between £240 and £400 will get you a machine that can be relied upon, as well as value-for-money and a range of features that will give you greater control over many aspects of your washing.
Washing machines in this range are ideal for those with a bit more to get clean, and clean fast. With a general capacity of between 6 and 8kgs, you can expect a reasonable level of programming and options that should help you save on the amount of water you’re using.
Another benefit of the mid-range machine is that much beloved LED screen. Like a calculator, this screen presents all kinds of crucial information in a way that makes the user’s life that much easier. Think time remaining on your wash, as well as information concerning temperature and the like.
Hotpoint have some great mid-range models which can handle a good load of clothes. Most families will opt for a mid-range model, because it makes infinitely more sense than buying a cheaper machine that’s sure to break down.
While these washing machines aren’t going to challenge Damian Hurst on the modern art front any time soon, there are some stylish designs on offer, and most of them receive generally favourable online reviews.
More money means a rise in quality
Nearing the luxury end of the spectrum, we find ourselves in a very different consumer landscape. These models look the part and excel at providing you with clean clothes and the minimum of stress.
While all washing machines can go wrong at some point, this is the start of where things are tailored to suit more demanding needs. For these machines, you can expect to pay anything from £350 to £700.
Here, it’s all about style and usability. Lack of confusion, if you like, and better attention-to-detail. These machines have numerous different programmes, advanced temperature technology and robust LCD screens that can be operated by touch. You’ll also be able to set the machine to wash bedding and countless other items of clothing, which makes a nice change if you’ve been used to a more basic, less flashy model.
You can also expect a much better after-service. The more money you pay, the better the chances are that, as a consumer, when something goes wrong or doesn’t work as it should, you’ll be looked after accordingly.
A natural born writer, Stacey Barton writes professionally and for fun across a wide range of niches with particular attention to how classic brands can continue to offer the same product for decades and somehow survive the turbulent and ever changing consumer market.
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