What is the best washing machine?

Discover the distinctions between modern mid-range and premium washing machines compared to budget models.

When opting for premium home appliances, the expectation is to acquire a high-quality device that promises longevity. Yet, the allure of German, Japanese, or American craftsmanship extends beyond durability. These machines offer enhanced functionality and comfort throughout their lifespan.

The correlation between price and quality often leads to the pivotal question: Does a more expensive washing machine guarantee a longer life than a budget model? The answer lies in engineering rather than marketing. Choosing a leading brand ensures a device crafted with superior technology.

The renowned “German quality” is not merely a concept but a historical achievement. Originating from the 19th-century rivalry among technologically progressive European nations, Germany emerged victorious, setting a standard that has only escalated over time.

Practical reasons also support this preference. Major brands typically manufacture both premium and mid-range models in the same facility, utilizing interchangeable parts and assemblies for ease of production. This shared quality across segments enables companies to offer extensive warranties on their products.

Hence, for those seeking a superior washing machine without the premium price tag, a mid-range model from a reputable brand is the savvy choice, especially over a premium model from a less established manufacturer.

For the busy housewife, mid-priced washing machines offer a convenient pause and reload function. Samsung models feature a special hatch for adding forgotten items mid-cycle. Bosch machines, on the other hand, require pausing the cycle and waiting for a monitor signal before the main door’s electromagnetic lock disengages for reloading.

Stain removal has seen innovative strides thanks to R&D algorithms, resulting in targeted cleaning programs. Bosch’s AntiStain and Miele’s StainRemoval technologies eliminate the need for separate stain removers.

Users can preset their machines to tackle four common stains—grass, grease, red wine, blood. HomeProfessional models expand this to sixteen stubborn stains, with the machine adjusting temperature, intensity, and duration for optimal fabric care.

Smart device control is another area where premium and mid-priced washing machines excel. For instance, Electrolux’s My Electrolux Care app lets users start their machine from anywhere with internet access, integrating wirelessly equipped appliances into a single system for remote cycle initiation, progress monitoring, and device maintenance.

Bosch’s HomeProfessional washing machines are at the forefront of laundry technology, offering expert care for garments with advanced features like remote control via the Home Connect app. This innovation allows users to input details about their laundry, and the app autonomously selects the appropriate washing program. When paired with a compatible dryer, the system can also automatically choose the optimal drying mode for the clothes.

Crease prevention is a key focus in modern laundry appliances. Leading brands have introduced various technologies to minimize creases in fabrics post-wash. AEG’s washing machines, for instance, come equipped with the ProSteam function, which uses steam to effectively reduce creasing. Similarly, Miele has enhanced its washing machines with a steam treatment that involves steam heating of the drum walls, further aiding in crease reduction and fabric care.

Bosch appliances are distinguished by a special interval spin mode and the ability to reduce the spin speed to minimise creasing of clothes. By combining a washing machine with a dryer with a steam treatment function, it is possible to eliminate the need to iron certain textiles. Bosch dryers equipped with the ironAssist function offer various modes adapted to different types of fabrics, with specific settings for suits and delicate garments such as shirts and blouses.

Market leaders use their innovation centres to offer consumers appliances with advanced features. Purchasing an economy model implies standard washing quality and may require additional manual interventions, such as soaking to remove stubborn stains. However, this represents a low initial investment and the preparation to replace the appliance after about seven years.

Conversely, opting for a more expensive model guarantees increased comfort, a wide range of features and reliability over a longer lifespan, often beyond ten years, without fear of frequent breakdowns or rapid obsolescence. Thus, the higher initial investment is justified by a superior user experience and increased durability of the device.