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Choosing the right fit
Do you want your washing machine or washer dryer front and centre, or do you want it hidden away in your kitchen cabinets? Choosing the right fit will make sure it complements your kitchen or utility room perfectly.
Did you know? Washing machines and washer dryers are all standard heights and widths, the only measurement that varies is the depth with the size of the drum.
Freestanding
A freestanding washing machine sits on its own, stacked or under the counter. You can place a freestanding machine anywhere there’s a connection, which means they’re great if you move house as you can just disconnect and go.
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Integrated
Integrated washing machines hide under your kitchen counters behind a cabinet door. They’re a great choice if you like that modern, clean look, or if you only want to see the washing machine when you have to do the laundry.
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Washer Dryer
Washer dryers are a washing machine and a tumble dryer all in one, and you can get them either freestanding or integrated. They’re the perfect space saving choice, ideal for that studio apartment.
Choose your drum size
The most popular drum sizes are 9kg and 10kg. Drum size is based on the number of kilos of dry clothing you can fit into the drum. Most medium-sized households will find an 8kg capacity machine perfectly adequate.
5-6kg washing machines
These have capacity for around 30 adult t-shirts.
7-8kg washing machines
The standard size of washing machine, these have space for around 40 adult t-shirts.
9kg+ washing machines
Our biggest washing machines – these have space for around 50 adult t-shirts, or more, depending on size.
Top washing features
Energy rating
A washing machine’s energy rating will tell you how energy efficient the model is. Ratings range from A – G, and a more efficient appliance means you’ll save more money on your energy bills. Look out for a washing machine with an energy rating of C or above, these will be some of the most energy-efficient models on the market.
Did you know? The energy rating system has changed. Learn more about the new ratings.
Spin speed
Spin speed refers to how many times your washing machine’s drum spins per minute. A faster spin speed will remove more water from your clothes, meaning they’ll dry quicker. You should only use a fast spin speed for synthetics and cottons, wool and delicates will need more special care.
Quick wash
The perfect setting for when you need to do a spot of last-minute laundry. Quick wash programmes typically tend to be 30 minutes; however, some models can wash a load in as little as 15 minutes. It’s good to know that these functions should only be used for small loads or slightly dirty items.
Autodosing
Take the guess work out of laundry with Autodosing technology. It works out just the right amount of detergent based on your wash load and then automatically releases at the perfect time. This means you’ll use less detergent and get the best results.
Watch our video on Bosch’s iDos technology
Steam
Some washing machines use the power of steam to take care of your clothes. The hot temperatures from the steam gets rid of bacteria and freshens up your clothes. Plus, it helps stop creases, so you’ll have less ironing to do after.
Smart
Laundry from the sofa? Yeah, you heard that right. Washing machines with smart features will let you hook up your appliance to your smartphone or tablet via your WiFi and an easy to use app. This means you can check progress, adjust settings and start a wash programme all from the palm of your hand.
Washing machine cycles explained
Quick wash
Machines with quick wash can complete a full wash in 30 minutes. It’s fast and energy efficient.
Material washes
Most washing machines have programs for specific fabrics, usually including silks, woollens, cotton, sport wear, synthetics, darks and delicates.
Baby cycle
A baby cycle is an intensive cycle that protects your little ones clothes from washing powder and detergent.
Half load
If you’re doing a wash but not using the full drum capacity, a half load program or automatic load adjustment uses less water than if the drum was full.
Intensive
An intensive wash is best used when you have some particularly tough stains that you want to remove. Can be paired with a pre-wash or extra-rinse program to give something a thorough clean.
Easy iron
This program runs at a lower spin speed so that your clothes come out of the wash less creased.
Eco wash
Economy cycles use a lower temperature to consume less water and energy.
Spin and drain
This cycle removes the water once the wash is done, and then spins the clothes dry – reducing the post-wash drying time.
Pause/add wash
Dropped a sock on the way? Pause functions make sure you can add it in mid-cycle.
Hygiene steam
Steam is injected directly into the drum to remove bacteria and reduce allergens.
Auto dosing
The machine knows just the right amount of detergent for any load.
Sensitive cycle
This programme reduces allergens that irritate sensitive skin.
Best washing machines for families
Family with lots of washing to do? Large capacity washing machines have more space, meaning you can put more laundry in each wash.
Families will also benefit from a machine with more wash programmes, such as baby cycles for little ones, or intensive washes for stained sport clothes.
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Best washing machines for individuals and couples
Less people in your household? A machine with a smaller drum, from 6kg to 9kg, may be more suitable.
It’ll still have space for the clothes and homewares you need to wash, but may use less energy and water.
Shop best washing machines for individuals and couples
Best washing machines for energy efficiency
Choosing a more energy-efficient model can have many benefits. Not only are they better for the environment, but you could also lower your bills.
The most energy-efficient washing machines are rated A and the least efficient are rated G. Learn more about the energy label.