Cleaning Up Before Christmas: A Guide From Professional Cleaners UK
Welcome to our handy guide to help you find the best washing machines on the market today.
As you are aware, a washing machine is a household essential. However, they aren’t cheap, so you’ll need to be sure whichever one you choose is right for your household, bank balance, and the amount of washing you do.
In our free and independent guide to the best washing machines, we will examine a range of models, including Samsung, Miele, Indesit, Hoover, and more, to find something suitable for your needs. All the washing machines we mention here have been favourably reviewed and comprehensively tested by consumer champions and industry publications so that you can be sure of the best possible quality and performance, regardless of your budget or washing requirements.
Check out the overall winners and follow the links below, or read our thoughts further down the page.
Samsung Ecobubble - more info here
Bosch 1400 Spin - more info here
Candy Washing Machine - more info here
Miele TwinDos - more info here
SMEG Washing Machine - more info here
At Professional Cleaners UK, we test and review products, awarding and selecting the very best based on several key factors. We are independently owned, and the views expressed are our own. We are a national professional cleaning company that may receive a small commission from the companies we review; this helps us keep our product review pages free of subscriptions for you. Prices of models are updated monthly, but check with retailers' websites.
We hope you enjoy the guide and find the washing machine you are looking for.
The first model in our guide is the fantastic Samsung Ecobubble! This chic, dark grey machine (also available in white) has been advertised on TV, so you may have already seen or heard about it. So, how did it come out in our independent tests?
With a 9kg capacity and a spin speed of 1400 rpm (plus an A+++ rating for energy efficiency), we believe you will struggle to find form or function better than this top Samsung washing machine. In almost every aspect, we found the Ecobubble to be superb; they have achieved this by improving previous washing machines and by integrating Ecobubble technology, a unique method of blending detergent with water and air to create a washing mix that’s much "bubblier" - hence the name. The bubbles aren't just for fun though, they penetrate fabrics effortlessly, removing dirt and stains (even on a cool wash time); allowing even the most eco-conscious consumer the opportunity to take on some heavy-duty laundry without cranking up the heat!
The interior drum is embossed with diamond shapes to prevent clothes from snagging and to hold a cushioning layer of water. The detergent drawer has also been upgraded – it flushes itself clean with jets of water to remove any residue and ensure every last bit is used.
In summary, the Samsung Ecobubble WW90 combines efficiency with environmental-mindedness to deliver superior energy efficiency and long-lasting performance that’s second-to-none, all with minimal noise. It’s even ‘smart’ and can be linked to your smartphone with an App to monitor performance and help diagnose any detected issues!
Review summary: The Samsung Ecobubble is ideal for busy homes and medium-sized households with a range of washing needs, prioritising both cost savings and energy efficiency - a superb washing machine, which won the best overall washing machine in our guide.
For more information, specifications, or to purchase this top washing machine, click here.
Miele washing machines are renowned for their excellence, and it is no surprise to see them featured in our top washing machine guide. With numerous models to choose from, we opted for the Miele WKH, as it demonstrated many of the traits that have made this leading washing machine brand known and respected.
The Miele TwinDos washer machine is the ultimate in performance, laundering your clothes to an exceptional level, thanks to a variety of new technologies and traditional wash programming that achieve new heights in clean clothes.
Automatic detergent dispensing eliminates greasy stains on fabrics, and the QuickPowerWash setting achieves results comparable to those of a heavy-duty industrial machine in just 59 minutes. Seven specialist stain removal settings enable users to combat a wide range of staining, covering over twenty stain types, and can remove up to three stains simultaneously. If you’re really in a rush, the pre-ironing setting can lightly heat the drum after the final spin, smoothing fabrics and making ironing faster and easier—a great integrated washing machine. Good energy rating.
Review summary: This high-end machine is ideal for those who wash on a heavy-duty scale or have to deal with stubborn stains and heavy soils. With quick, top-class results and spin speed, the iron mode we tested was great for young professionals, medium-sized households, and young families. Achieves outstanding results time after time. Highly recommended.
For more information or to purchase this amazing Miele washing machine click here.
The ideal budget washing machine, the Indesit IWC Eco machine, aims for great results every time, without splashing out on the cash to achieve them. We found this to be the best budget-friendly washing machine in our washing machine reviews; it delivered good results at a reasonable price.
A focus on efficiency and eco-friendly credentials enables the Indesit customer to save money while saving the planet - and get all their whites looking shiny bright! This washer machine weighs each wash load as it’s turned on and then rations its water and electricity to use only the appropriate amount, depending on what’s in the drum at any one time. Sports and gym fans may choose from specialist programs, including "sportswear washes" to tackle grass stains and tough dirt marks on heavy-duty kit and nylon mix activewear, as well as sports shoe washes to clean even the heaviest-used trainers effectively.
Review summary: This washing machine is ideal for individuals who are mindful of their environmental impact and budget. It achieved impressive results for a cheap price. Recommended as the best budget washing machine.
For more information or to purchase the popular cheap washing machine, click here.
Hoover is a super-brand in the "white goods" world (they don't just make the best vacuums), as this brilliant Hoover washing machine demonstrates.
The Hoover Next model performed strongly in many of your tests, even though it may not have been the prettiest washing machine; it offered great results and value for money. We found that the beauty of the Hoover Next machine was in its versatility. It provides a range of programs tailored to all fitness levels, as well as busy periods when you need to fit everything in; this is addressed with its impressive "All In One" 59-minute cycle. We felt that this Hoover washing machine was particularly suited to busy households and those with hectic lifestyles.
The Hoover Next has thought of everything to make washing easy. The porthole is extra large for easy loading and unloading, and the Hoover Dynamic programming enables the machine to monitor its own performance constantly. This means it optimises and amends its cycles as needed, essentially becoming an intelligent washing machine. What’s more, it’s an NFC machine (just like a contactless payment card), so using an Android smartphone with its partner app, you can switch washes on and off, monitor and adjust settings, and keep track of the energy expenditure used. Again, great for modern living.
Summary: This machine is ideal for large families, medium-sized households, and individuals with busy lifestyles. Easy to use, able to handle large loads, app-operated, with a good energy rating and spin speed, quick wash options, and offering intelligent washing benefits (adjusting water and detergent levels), it was well-priced and offered good value for money. Highly recommended.
For more information or to purchase this top washing machine, simply click here.
A luxury freestanding washing machine, this beautifully designed Smeg model is a must-have for fans. It blends perfectly with other Smeg white goods and is neatly hidden away from view with its cosmetic and stylish door. A brilliant washing machine for those who want their laundry done to a high standard, while also wanting a washing machine that looks great in their home.
That said, with a 7kg load capability, 1400 rpm spin cycle, A+++ energy rating and wash options starting from just 15 minutes, this brilliant washing machine also has everything you could ask for in practical terms; it's not just a stylish option! This brilliant Smeg washer machine has fifteen pre-set programs to launder different categories and types of clothing to their full potential. One of the most popular programs is Night Mode, which allows the machine to wait until overnight hours to start washing, taking advantage of lower energy rates. This is great for a detached home, but not for those living in flats or where you need to be mindful of your neighbours.
The reinforced 7kg drum is built for longevity, and the Aquastop anti-flood device ensures that even if it were to malfunction, you can be assured that the machine won’t flood your kitchen with water – a valuable feature to know for those with other expensive appliances to match. Could this be the next washing machine for you?
Best Washing Machine 2021 Summary: This washing machine is ideal for those with a style-conscious home and those seeking a washing machine that not only looks great but also boasts a good spin speed and makes a stylish statement. Results were excellent even on tough stains as well; it didn't just look smart but produced brilliant cleaning.
For more information on this and other stunning Smeg washing machines, click here.
Don’t be fooled by this Logik washing machine’s cheap price tag – you’ll be surprised by just how much they’ve managed to cram into a machine retailing for less than £200!
A 7kg drum capacity and 1400 rpm spin cycle put this machine on an even keel with all of the others listed here, performance-wise. Pre-set wash cycle programs start from just a quarter of an hour, with the unique ability to be able to delay for 24 hours, allowing users to fit their laundry loads into their busy schedules, no matter how hectic they may be! Sixteen set programs offer the ideal washes for a variety of laundry loads and stain removal; everything can be monitored right from the machine’s LED screen. A solid integrated washing machine. Good energy rating.
Washing machine review summary: This machine is ideal for those who don’t have time to spend on household chores such as laundry, nor the appetite to spend heavily on the goods to complete them. A fantastic, cheap model for those with busy lifestyles and for medium-sized households.
For more information on buying this Logik washing machine, click here.
Another super-brand in the washing machine world is Bosch! A mid-range price tag for a heavy-duty freestanding washing machine, the Bosch WAT is designed for busy and large families with hectic schedules and a lot of laundry and clothes to get through.
The large 9kg drum capacity can be filled, and operations still run on an energy-efficient basis, thanks to the A+++ energy rating. The wave-drum structure within the room drum allows for constant water flow that’s slightly agitated to distribute detergent perfectly and rinse thoroughly, even through the most soiled of items. Even with its large capacity and 1400 rpm, if laundry needs to be completed in a hurry, the Bosch WAT has you covered. The 15-minute cycle can handle up to 2kg for an efficient clean (equivalent to about 10 shirts), and the detergent drawer is self-cleaning, so you don’t need to worry about constantly scrubbing it out. It also has a good maximum spin speed.
What’s more, the Bosch WAT won’t disturb the kids once they’ve gone to bed either… as the advanced motor produces maximum efficiency even at exceptionally low noise levels. It comes with a 10-year guarantee, too, so you can rest assured it’ll stay quiet even as it ages; even if your mother-in-law does the opposite!
Best washing machine reviews summary: This 1400 rpm machine is ideal for large and busy families who require efficient and quiet laundry washing. The 10-year guarantee is a great bonus too, as is its energy rating and good wash cycle options: excellent overall washing performance and best all-around washing machine.
For more information to purchase this Bosch washing machine click here.
Busy families with varying needs often struggle to find an ‘all-round’ washing machine that can take equal care of everyone, but the Hotpoint WMX manages to do so.
Mucky children’s clothes can be quickly cleaned off with rapid cycles as short as 9 minutes, and the unique anti-stain cycle is a must-have for those with toddlers or teenagers who always return home with mysterious stains. The freestanding machine works with an anti-allergy cycle using high-temperature technology and extra rinses to neutralise allergens; and it’s been proven to eliminate up to 99.9% of them, even without specialist detergents. Furthermore, Mum and Grandma can take good care of their woollens using the Woolmark Platinum Care Programme, which utilises an extra-gentle drum cycle and low spin speeds to keep delicates looking tip-top.
Washing machine review summary: This machine is ideal for families and medium-sized households with mixed needs, including stain removal, a good energy rating, allergy care and a mix of fabrics.
For more information or to purchase this Hotpoint washing machine, click here.
Perhaps the ‘Jack of all trades’ of washing machines, the Zanussi works brilliantly for a range of needs. It plays host to a variety of specialist programmes, including cotton, delicates and denim, for the optimum clean, no matter the garment; all taken care of efficiently by a 1400rpm spin speed to reduce drying times.
For smaller loads, a 30c wash can service up to 3kg of soiled laundry in just 30 minutes. However, you don’t need to worry about the energy rating of your washes, as this model is graded A+++ for efficiency. Any wash cycle can be halved using the QuickWash option, and the LCD shows you exactly how long is left on the programme you’ve selected. You can even delay your wash starting for up to 20 hours – so why not run it overnight, when your electricity costs will be cheaper?
Washing machine reviews summary: This machine works great for those who have a variety of laundry needs but don’t know exactly what's coming: super price and a solid all-around performer.
For more information or to purchase this Zanussi washing machine, click here.
The ultimate in smart tech for laundry, the LG TurboWash isn’t your average washing machine: it’s so much more!
Use your Android smartphone to download washing programmes and read up on laundry hints and tips. The machine is NFC-enabled, allowing it to be linked via Bluetooth. The Smart Diagnosis system on the machine will update your phone if there are any issues with the wash, and will self-diagnose to try and fix itself in the unlikely event that a problem occurs. Combine this innovative tech with LG’s patented 6 Motion Direct Drive technology, which includes a variety of drum motions and speeds for unprecedented control over your laundry (even as it’s washing!), And you have a special machine. This enables you to ensure the perfect wash every time, no matter how stained, soiled, or rushed. Extra rinse options as well.
Washing machine reviews summary: This machine is the perfect addition to a household that loves its tech! Young professionals favoured it, and it had a good energy rating, as well as being effective against stubborn stains. Washing clothes was never so easy!
For more information or to purchase this LG washing machine, click here.
That completes our top 10 washing machines; however, the following are also worth considering and just missed out.
True to AEG’s signature style, the ProSteam L7F looks great, and its function truly matches up to its form. It holds premium certifications from Woolmark, Lenor and Arial – which is no mean feat in the laundry world where brands typically choose to compete against each other in endorsing equipment! The ProSteam programming is designed to minimise the need for ironing by reducing wrinkles and drying garments off evenly with steam. Working alongside this, ProSense technology weighs each wash load and uses only the exact amount of time and water needed for an effective wash, adjusted to your bespoke washing requirements, every time. The SoftPlus feature disperses detergent and soap evenly throughout (no more greasy marks from overloading!), and the specialist fabric programmes are each designed by experts for the ultimate material care. The AEG ProSteam L7F isn’t the cheapest of washing machines, granted, but it’s one of the best – and some of the industry’s leading names agree.
Best buy washing machines review summary: This machine works brilliantly for the eco-conscious (with a good balance of water and detergent use) and those with delicate fabric washing needs. It also has a good load capacity for medium-sized households. Highly recommended.
For more information or to purchase this brilliant AEG washing machine, click here.
A minimalist-looking freestanding machine, you may not have heard of the Candy washing machine before, and to be honest, you may struggle to find many stockists of them. That said, now’s the time to do your research into this brand, because this machine stacks well up against the best of ‘em.
Candy washing machines GVS holds an impressive 8kg load with a 1200 rpm spin cycle, which is unusually high performance for a machine at this price level. It features all the standard options you’d expect from a washing machine – custom programmes, low-temperature settings, and quick washes – as well as some you wouldn’t. A ‘quick weigh’ sensor monitors and judges the weight of your wash load within the first four minutes, ensuring your laundry only takes as long as it needs to and never uses excess water. Economical night-time washes can be taken advantage of without having to stay up late thanks to a handy time delay, so there’s no need to overspend on your laundry loads… or your machine! The downsides? It’s not the quietest, and there’s no low-volume tech built-in, so perhaps don’t put it in a room next to your bedroom. Candy also isn’t stocked everywhere, so you’ll need to visit an Argos or shop online through them. A great budget washing machine.
Washing Machines Review UK Summary: This machine is perfect for a household with a low laundry budget - a small amount of water and detergent used, but still needing something that packs a punch. Good spin speed and load capacity to clean clothes. Excellent overall cleaning performance on full load or constant full loads. Decent wash programme options. Could this be the right washing machine for you?
For more information or to purchase a Candy washing machine, click here.
We hope you enjoyed reading our free and independent guide to the best washing machines on the market today, which aims to help you choose the best washing appliance for your needs.
Our cleaning teams have reviewed a wide range of washing machine models, including Candy, Hotpoint, Miele, and more, to find something suitable for your budget and home.
As you can imagine, there are numerous washing machines to choose from, and much of it comes down to personal preference when it comes to washing clothes at home.
We regularly update and add new and exciting washing machines, so do check back.
For more independent reviews, check out our guides to the best hoovers, best tumble dryers, best washer dryers, best fridge freezers, best steam cleaners, best dishwashers, best air purifiers and best pressure washers today.
Prices of models are accurate at the time of writing and are updated monthly. However, please check with retailers' websites for the most up-to-date prices.
Washing machines aren’t often a product we pay much attention to, but when you consider how heavily they’re used, how rapidly and often frantically they work, and how much we all rely on them, it’s a wonder we don’t talk about them more! But buying a washing machine is a tricky task. Long gone are the days of picking out a white, plastic block to sit in the corner of your kitchen or utility room and use it as needed, until the day it died a watery, bubbly death. Now, washing machines (or wash machines as they are sometimes known) come in a whole host of colours (white, black, cream and red are very popular) to match the look of your other appliances and decoration, can work ‘smart’ to detect your laundry’s weight and only use the necessary water and electricity levels, and most have speedy settings to adapt to different time scales and different fabric types. These all contribute to their energy rating.
Who knew washing machines could be so intelligent? Whilst washing machines aren’t overly complicated to install in most cases, it’s always less hassle to have someone professional take it on. In cases of removal and disposal, this can often be quite pricey and relies on you having relevant transportation and the ability to lift and move the machine; so, consider carefully whether your time is worth more or less than the fee your retailer offers.
We hope our guide has helped help you find something perfect.
Aesthetics - never judge a book by its cover. Oh, wait. OK. So, your washer isn’t just something you’ll read and then pass on, but rather something that will be in your kitchen or utility room for at least a few years. If you’re at all fussy about aesthetics or feel that your tenants or future buyers of your home may be, then choose a machine in a colour or style that matches your room’s furniture and decor. Some washer machines come hidden behind doors, and such doors can often be purchased separately if you end up with something that doesn’t quite fit in with the rest of the room. It shouldn’t be a deal-breaker for your perfect machine, but don’t compromise if it’s going to annoy you. Check elsewhere to see if you can find a cupboard cover that fits it.
Specialist programmes - most washing machines nowadays have a range of pre-set wash programmes and quick wash options designed to provide the optimum wash for either a specific fabric type or a time constraint. These vary in time, water temperature, rinses, and spin cycles to best care for the laundry load within (these are known as quick washes). Ensure the washing machine you’re buying fits your laundry needs, and consider factors such as household allergies or heavy staining if you have a family that requires special care. Some brands of detergent and specialist organisations endorse certain machines over others; however, be aware that these endorsements and sponsorships are often paid for, so not all may be as they seem. Do your research first!
Quick washes - if you’re on a hectic schedule, or are prone to little accidents such as spillages and stains, you may find that sitting around and waiting for hours on end for a washing cycle to complete isn’t ideal for you (wash cycle is key), therefore a quick wash is probably key. Many washing machines now offer ‘quick washes’ that provide a short, sharp wash for light to medium soiling. Daily wash cycles are typically around the 1-hour mark, but machines with quick wash can be optimised to offer programmes down to less than 10 minutes. Check your washing machine’s timed cycles for convenience.
Time delay functions - if you’re budget-conscious, it’s usually best to run your wash loads overnight, when energy tariffs are generally cheaper and you can grab your clean clothes to hang in the morning. Some machines can delay your wash from starting by a few hours, so you can program it to start at your preferred time. This isn’t standard but is becoming more commonplace, and is an easy way to save some cash on wash cycles.
Saving Energy - the use of electricity, and often a lot of water, isn’t always conducive to environmentally friendly living. In the past few years, energy-efficient washing machine manufacturers have made great progress in optimising energy efficiency, and ratings are now better than ever. For maximum efficiency and to ensure the best use of water, choose a machine that weighs your load before it operates, so it only uses what it needs and doesn’t create any waste, and has low water and detergent consumption.
Wi-fi operated - some models are now wi-fi operated for those who are tech-savvy.
Tumble dryer - some models also have a built-in tumble dryer.
If you are looking a new washing machine or more energy efficient model than the one you have, read on. We also examine budget washing machine price options and budget washing machines in general, and test washing machines when providing our feedback and writing reviews, considering factors such as appearance, energy consumption, wash quality, washer dryer options, liquid detergent models, and energy efficiency.
Put, it is a washing machine that is hidden out of sight behind a door rather than a freestanding washing machine.
This is very popular in modern kitchens where an overall neat finish is desired. Integrated washing machines are always popular.
Many washer machines are now integrated, or they can be easily finished in this way, with small screws fitted to attach to a unit door.
There are many great, cheap washing machines on the market. In our best washer machines guide, we have reviewed a few models which fall into this bracket (under the £300 mark and some even under £200). For more information, please read their sections or click on the links for additional details or to make a purchase today.
When buying a cheap model, I think about drum size and energy rating. Other factors to consider with a cheaper model include spin speed, the size of the full load, wash times, running costs (related to the energy rating), drum size, whether you want a heavy-duty washer, a front-loading washing machine, a semi-automatic version, or a freestanding washing machine. A quick wash setting? Do you have large loads and a large family? Just because a model is cheaper doesn't mean you can't look for top features.
Sometimes it is often a better idea to search for the best mid-range washing machines (as the price difference can be small), which can have more advanced features such as improved spin speeds, fast wash and a superior spin wash, basically more energy-efficient wash cycles, essential for a large family. These types of models are often very easy to use and require a smaller amount of water - the Samsung Eco Bubble is famously so. This model can also do freestanding washing, as well as being one of the best-integrated washing machines. It is, therefore, an ideal washing machine for many, and the price point is good.
Unless your washing machines are particularly expensive or high-end and you only want to "buy the best washing", over the £500 mark, often repairs aren't worth the money. With so many great value-for-money options, it is often quicker and cheaper to get a new washing machine rather than pay for repairs.
A typical call-out from an independent washer repair person is around the £60 mark. Additionally, if it can be repaired, you need to consider the cost of labour and parts.
This means that a typical washer repair can cost around £200 - for that price, you can in some cases buy a new one.
The size of a standard washing machine is:
850mm heigh x 595 wide x 600 deep
The specifications of a standard washing machine are:
850x600x600mm
Here are the most popular questions we get asked:
There are several factors to consider when buying a washing machine, we think the main ones to consider are; spin speeds, wash modes, its energy rating, detergent drawer, stain removal, do you want a top-loading version, a front-loading one, a quick cycle (some now offer a 15-minute quick wash), drum size, wash performance, energy usage, silk wash, innovative features, any special wash needs, if you want a freestanding washing machine, some also inject steam at the end of the cycle and the daily running costs. There is a lot to think about.
Most models in our guide offer great washing, although the best results were achieved by the Samsung Ecobubble (although we also think the Bosch Serie 6 is excellent). Make sure you think about your individual needs and usage before purchase.
There is no difference between buying directly from a washing machine supplier or a department store.
One of the main benefits we have found is that purchasing through a retailer like John Lewis means you may earn points on loyalty cards – always check to see if you can.
Also, when buying with John Lewis or a department store, you get to see the products in the flesh, and many people like to see washing machines in person before buying.
Put simply spin speed is the speed that the drum can spin (this can also be affected by the drum size).
Following the links on our site will give more info on the spin speed of the individual washing machine types you are interested in. Often, this also affects the noise level, with some super quiet models now on the market as well.
Essentially, the cost of running a washing machine is often determined by its water consumption, the size of the full load, and the electricity required to power it. Larger drum sizes typically have higher running costs.
There are also models now that do 15-minute quick wash loads, but these can be more expensive.
A freestanding washing machine is essentially a machine that can stand alone and doesn't require a cabinet to be fitted.
The Samsung Echo Bubbe can do both. A freestanding washing machine model is the most popular type. They typically take 8kg washing loads and has a good energy efficiency rating whilst being good on tough stains. It was the best Samsung washing machine in the UK in 2021, according to our guide for that year.
Lots of factors as the guide outlines – but we think spin speed, a good energy rating, a drum size suitable to your family. A drum size too small may mean you have to do lots of loads, a drum size too big can impact the energy-efficient nature of the washing machine.
In summary, effective spin speed and an appropriate spin size. This can be achieved with integrated washing machines or stand-alone models.
Our favourite model of washing machine would have to be the Samsung Ecobubble as it is universal and suitable for most people with a good drum size and spin speed, 30-minute quick wash options, with lots of good features. The Bosch Serie 6 is also worth looking at but the Samsung Ecobubble was our clear winner. Both are great on tough stains and could be the ideal washing machine for you, both are good washing machine options for all usage.
There are lots of types, including front-loading washing machine options and top-loading washing machine options too. What washing machines to buy depends on individual circumstances and needs.
The best washing machine brand we think is Samsung and Miele, however, we always think you should make sure you know what you are looking for. Our full guide looks at lots of models and price points. Not just richer machines.
Are you after a smart washing machine, a freestanding washing machine, a wash programme, a top-loading washing machine, any particular wash program settings, a preference on drum size, a quick wash capability or a certain spin speed?
Other factors to consider when evaluating an individual washing machine's benefits include the need for a large capacity on full loads and an energy-efficient model with a good energy rating, particularly for those in larger or medium-sized households who are conscious of running costs.
We tend to recommend a 9kg washing machine as a minimum, with a few fancy features to boot!
To be honest, we think the most reliable washing machines are the Bosch Serie 6 and the Echobubble. Both the Serie 6 and Eco offer excellent smart washing and washing performance, a good spin speed, effective cleaning on stubborn stains, and a large capacity. Effective stain removal.
Again, purchasing from somewhere like John Lewis is no bad idea so you are covered by their returns policy and excellent customer service – it also may earn points on rewards schemes.