A washing machine is an essential home appliance that fulfills the task of washing clothes in a few minutes. You simply need to toss the dirty clothes in the machine drum, add cloth-friendly detergent, and set the washing mode, water level, and time frame. The result? A pile of freshly washed and dried clothes for your usage, whenever required.
Now if you are planning to buy a washing machine, you can select from popular brands like Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, and more that provide for a wider range of choices with user-friendly features that enhance the whole experience of washing and drying clothes in much more efficient ways!
In this article, we will share some essential factors you should consider when selecting the ideal washing machine that is best suited for your home:
Types of Washing Machines
Washing machines are easily available in different sizes and types, offering unique features and functions too. Broadly, these are categorized in the below-mentioned types:
Semi Automatic Washing Machines
Semi-automatic washing machines are considered entry-level washing machines. These types of washing machines include two tubs, one for washing the clothes and the other for drying them.
Such washing machines need more manual effort though. But, price point-wise, semi-automatic washing machines are pretty affordable and can be selected from a price range of Rs. 6000 and onwards.
Fully Automatic Washing Machines
Fully automatic washing machines can be categorized into the following types:
A) Top Load washing machines
Top-loading washing machines include a single tub system and you need to put the clothes from the top inside the same. This type of washing machine is attached to the water tab and the machine automatically controls the water flow as per the command given to the same. Compared to semi-automatic washing machines, top-loading machines include advanced wash programs and allow for quick and easy washing of clothes.
B) Front Load Washing Machines
Front-load washing machines include more advanced features like an automatic start and stop system, hot water supply, soak clothes, washing modes as per clothes type, child lock system, and much more.
Key Differences Between Top Loading and Front Loading Washing Machine
Listed below are some of the prime differences between top-load and front-load washing machines:
Top Load Washing Machine
- Can be selected from the impeller washing system.
- Includes a deep water setting system.
- Includes shorter washing time.
- Can load and unload the clothes without much effort.
Front Load Washing Machine
- Includes higher capacity for clothes.
- Uses less water as per load of clothes.
- Has a greater spin speed and shorter dry times.
Prime Factors to Consider Before Buying the Washing Machine
Here are some important factors and tips you need to consider when buying a washing machine for your home:
Wash Settings
Most automatic washing machines today come with multiple wash settings or programs that adjust the water levels and wash options as per the clothing type. You can select the same with touchscreen buttons or panels and these are easy to operate and water and shock-resistant too.
Spin Cycle
The spin cycle feature is useful for drying clothes and is determined as per the revolution or rotation per minute. The more revolutions per minute, the faster the clothes will dry. The spinning cycle for silk or woolen clothes is 300-600 RPM whereas for regular clothes it can reach up to 1000 RPM. If needed, you can buy a separate dryer as well.
Temperature Settings
The temperature setting feature helps understand the temperature of the water if the washing machine includes an inbuilt heater system. The water heater system addition inside the washing machine is especially useful for removing the tough stains from the clothes.
Tub/Drum Material
Most washing machine drums or tubs are made with stainless steel or plastic. Stainless steel tubs are considered to be the strongest, can work well under high spin speed, and last for more years. Plastic tubs in particular last longer as compared to enamel ones as they can rust and chip off after a few years.
Warranty
It is crucial to check for the warranty before selecting a washing machine and selecting the one that offers the best warranty and other maintenance services.
Features to Check for Automatic Washing Machine
Technologically advanced washing machines are designed with a lot of interesting features that help improve the overall washing experience. Here are some of the interesting features to look out for in the new-age washing machines:
Digital Inverter Compressor
Most modern washing machines include the digital inverter compressor system that is useful for quicker and better washing with easy maintenance. The washing is done in a much quieter and less vibration mode. Compared to the conventional washing machine types, washing machines with digital inverter bases are more durable too.
Inbuilt Heater
Most front-load washing machines include an inbuilt heater system that helps remove the tough, greasy stains. You need to soak the clothes in the hot water for a given time and wash the clothes in a required washing mode, cycle, and time frame!
3D Wash
3D wash is a special wash system that uses water jets and showers attached to the tub padding and allows for soaking the clothes. It quickly dissolves the added clothing detergent and offers a thorough cleaning of clothes!
Hard Water Wash
Washing machines with basic features may be affected by hard water systems. However, modern washing machines do not get affected by hard or borewell water systems and function properly even after regular exposure to the same.
Active Wash+
Washing machines with active wash+ features include a built-in tub or sink with a wave design at the bottom and a water jet tab or button. The wave design and the water jet system allow for soaking the dirty clothes and help remove the tough stains easily.
Easy Tips to Clean the Washing Machine
It is necessary to clean the washing machine at regular intervals to improve its functionality and longevity. Clean the machine drum with a good quality washing machine cleaning solvent only. Deep cleaning of the washing machine will restore the shine of the drum and that the laundry is without any residues.
Generally, all automatic machines give a cleaning indication with their eco tub cleaning tab. If not, then ensure to clean the machine once a month.
Also Read -
Dishwasher Buying Guide: 7 Key Factors To Consider For Selecting The Best One!
Refrigerator Buying Guide: Essential Factors To Know For Selecting The Best Fridge!
