Are you looking for the best washing machines and tons of choices are making you confused? If yes, then you have landed on the right page.
Before jumping straight into the market you need to know the basics of ‘how to choose washing machines?’
There are certain parameters of a washing machine that makes one better than the other. Such as: the type, energy consumption, water consumption, faster wash cycles, more features, ease of use, and so on.
Then comes your budget, space, brand preference, etc. As it seems, finding the right washing machine is a tough job without any help.
So, we are here to help you make the best decision based on your needs. Read our full washing machine buying guide to explore more about washing machines and clear your doubts. So, let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Types of Washing Machines
You might already know that there are two types of washing machines:
- Semi-automatic washing machines
- Fully automatic washing machines
The fully automatic washing machines come in two variations:
- Top-load washing machines
- Front-load washing machines
Semi-Automatic vs Fully Automatic Washing Machines
Semi-automatic washing machines are partly automated. They are basic level washing machines that require manual intervention to perform.
Semi-automatic washing machines have two tubs- a washtub for washing clothes and a spin tub for drying clothes. After the wash cycle is over, you need to manually transfer the clothes into the spin tub for drying.
Hence, semi-automatic washing machines don’t let you completely relax while the washing closes. They are the most inexpensive types of washing machines.
| Pros of semi-automatic washing machines | Cons of semi-automatic washing machines |
| Affordable | Takes a lot of time in washing |
| Don’t need a continuous water supply | Not the best cleaning results |
| Energy efficient | Tougher of fabrics |
| Anyone can use it | Risk of electric shock if not properly earthed |
| Let’s you add or remove clothes in the middle of a wash cycle |
Fully Automatic Washing Machines:
Fully automatic washing machines are equipped with various washing programmes and technologies to keep human intervention at an absolute minimum.
It comes with only one tub for both washing and drying. All you need to do is put your clothes in, select the programme and start the machine. That’s all! No filling and emptying the tub, pouring detergent, and switching between compartments.
The machine will get the job done within a certain time. The second time you will get to the machine after starting the wash cycle is when you will take your clothes out.
Hence, you can sit back or do other household chores while the machine takes care of the washing. It is the best washing machine in terms of cleaning and convenience.
LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, Haier, Godrej, BPL make the best washing machines brands in India.
The price for fully automatic washing machines varies between 12000 INR to 40000 INR depending on the brand, model, and features.
| Pros of fully automatic washing machine | Cons of fully automatic washing machines |
| A lot more convenient | Hike in electricity bills |
| Better at cleaning | Can’t add or remove clothes during the wash cycles |
| Compact in size: | Costlier |
| Packed with advanced technologies to make your job easier |
Semi-automatic vs fully automatic: A side-by-side comparison
| Deciding factors | Winner | Why is it better? |
| Cost-effective | Semi-automatic | They are much cheaper compared to fully automatic washing machines. Price starts from Rs. 6000 INR. |
| Energy efficient | Semi-automatic | Semi-automatic washing machines with the slower spin speed and less number of programs consume much lesser electricity compared to a fully-automatic washing machine. |
| More convenient | Fully automatic | You can sit back or do other household work while the machines will do the washing. |
| Water-efficient | Fully automatic ( front load) | Advanced drum technologies can wash clothes using little water. Exception: top load fully automatic washing machines |
| Better at cleaning | Fully automatic | Equipped with various technologies they are much better at cleaning compared to semi-automatic ones. |
| Easier to use | Semi-automatic | Semi-automatic washing machines come with a lesser number of buttons and controls. So, anyone can use it without any expertise. |
| Compact size | Fully automatic | With just one tub fully automatic machines perfectly sit in a corner. |
| Gentle on delicate fabrics | Fully automatic | They have different wash cycles for different types of fabrics including silk, satin, synthetics, etc. |
Front-load vs Top-load washing machines
As mentioned earlier fully automatic washing machines can be classified into two types- the Top load washing machines and the Front-load washing machines.
Top load washing machines:
As you have guessed it the top load washing machines have a top lid. In other words, you will feed clothes from the top.
They too have one vertically standing tub inside for both washing and drying. They are connected to a water inlet tap and like a fully automatic washing machine, they can control the amount of water flow required.
Top load washing machines have fewer wash programmes and hi-tech technologies but they are economical and are more popular in India.
The price of front load washing machines in India ranges from 13000 to 25000 INR.
| Pros of top load washing machines | Cons of Top load washing machines: |
| Less expensive | Not the best cleaning |
| The best for people with back pains | Consume more electricity and water |
| Lets you add clothes in the middle | Fewer technologies |
| Easier to use | Tough on delicate clothes. |
Front-load washing machines
Strong, powerful, and equipped with advanced technologies front load washing machines offer the best cleaning experience. They make less noise and consume less water and electricity.
As the name suggests, they have lids that open front-wise and drums that sit horizontally. You need to load and unload from the front.
| Pros of front load washing machines | Cons of front load washing machines |
| Better at energy savings | Expensive than most |
| Water-efficient | Doesn’t let you add or remove clothes in the middle of a wash cycle (except a few) |
| Best at cleaning | Heavy and huge thereby difficult to move |
| Gentle on delicate fabrics | |
| More advanced | |
| Makes less noise |
Top load vs front load: A side by side comparison
| Deciding factors | Winner | Why is it better? |
| Better at cleaning | Front-load | Equipped with the most advanced technologies and features front load washing machines are the best at cleaning. |
| Energy efficient | Front-load | Front-load washing machines have longer wash cycles because they run at slower speeds. Which in turn makes them energy efficient compared to top loads. |
| Uses less water | Front-load | Front-load washing machines wash clothes by tumbling actions that require less amount of water for soaking. |
| Easier to use | Top load | Top load washing machines have fewer buttons. Which makes them easy to operate for anyone. |
| Price | Top loads | Top load washing machines are cheaper compared to any front load washing machine. |
| Spin Speed or how fast it dries | Front-loaders | They have higher RPM speeds which dry clothes faster than top load. |
| Adding or removal of clothes in the middle of a wash cycle | Top load | Most top loads allow you to add or remove clothes. But, only a few front-load washing machines allow the same. |
| Makes less noise | Front-load | They are equipped with low vibration and low noise technologies. |
What Capacity Washing Machine Do You Need?
To choose the best washing machine one needs to find the right size washing machine.
Ask yourself these three questions:
- How many members are there in your family?
- How often do you wash clothes?
- How many types of clothes can you wash at once?
The washing machine capacity is measured in kilograms. If you see a 7kg washing machine, that doesn’t describe the machine’s weight but the weight of dry clothes it can effectively clean.
| Family Members | Washing machine capacity | Similar weight clothes |
| 2 members or singles | 6 kg | 2 t-shirts2 jeans1 bath towel1 bedsheet |
| 3 members | 7 kg | 3 t-shirts2 jeans3 bath towels1 bed sheet or 3 pillowcases |
| 4 members | 8 kg | 4 t-shirts3 jeans3 bath towels1 bedsheet4 pillowcases |
| More than 5 members | 10 kg | 5 t-shirts4 jeans3 bath towels2 bedsheets6 pillowcases |
Capacity based on family size
The capacity of the washing machine is directly proportional to the number of people present in your family. Basic washing machines with 5 kg to 6kgs capacity are ideal for a family of 2 adults and one child. The ideal capacity for a family of 4 is around 7 kgs. 8 kg should suffice for a family consisting of 5 to 6 members. But there are machines as big as 10 kgs ideal for larger families with 7 to 8 members.
Capacity based on the frequency of washing
If you have a big family and wash once a week, it’s better to go for a larger capacity washing machine. If you can manage to wash each day or every alternative day you may choose a smaller size machine.
If you are tight on budget you can opt for a smaller size. The only problem is, that you need to run multiple wash cycles which are going to take a lot of time.
How many different types of clothes can you wash at once?
While washing capacity is measured in kilograms, we aren’t always aware of the laundry weight. One way to decide on the laundry weight and washing machine size is to determine the average weight of your laundry.
1 Kilogram laundry weight = 5 t-shirts OR 2 jeans OR 2 bath towels OR 4 pillowcases
Use this rule as a general guideline in deciding the capacity. Now, clothes come in different shapes, sizes, and varieties, but with this rule, you can chalk out the average laundry weight of your household.
Washing Machine Price Range: What choices do you have within your budget?
To buy a semi-automatic washing machine you have to spend a minimum of 6000 INR. The prices increase depending on the size, brands, and features.
For a top load automatic washing machine, the starting price is around 13000 INR which can go upto 25000 or above.
Entry-level front load washing machines start from 23,000 INR, which increases with better brands like L.G, Samsung, Bosch, and can go above 50000.
Here is a table of brands with their washing machine price list:
| Brands | Semi-automatic | Top load | Front-load |
| L.G | 9,000 -16,000 INR | 16,000- 28,0000 INR | 25,000- 50,000 INR |
| Samsung | 8000- 14,000 INR | 14,000 – 26,000 INR | 22,000- 42000 INR |
| IFB | — | 16,000- 25,000 INR | 22,000- 40,000 INR |
| Whirlpool | 9000 to 17,000 INR | 13,000-23,000 INR | 24,000- 38,000 INR |
| Bosch | —- | 17,000- 35,000 INR | 23,000 – 42,000 INR |
| Haier | 70000 to 15,000 INR | 12,000 – 24,000 INR | 23,000 – 33,000 INR |
| Godrej | 7000 to 15,000 INR | 12,000- 24,000 INR | 22,000- 30,000 INR |
The Wash Programmes to Look for
Here are some of the wash programmes that come with the best washing machines. Obviously, not all machines have all the programmes, but these are the most common and also the most used ones.
Fuzzy logic
Most of the automatic washing machines have a fuzzy logic programme. It lets the machine decide the best washing conditions depending on the laundry load, such as wash time, amount of water, amount of detergent, etc.
Quick wash
Almost all fully automatic machines have a quick wash programme. It is meant to wash your clothes in a much shorter time, usually within 15-20 minutes.
Daily wash
Daily wash is meant for washing regular clothes like undergarments, daily wears, gym wear, etc. It completes wash cycles with less water and time.
Pre-soak
Pre-soak is for heavily soiled clothes. Once you start the machine, it first soaks the clothes, then continues with the normal wash cycle.
Delay Wash
It delays the wash cycles and starts the machine at the time when you want it to start. Super handy if you are sensitive to buzzing washing machine noises.
Woolens/ Handwash /Delicate wash programmes
Regular wash cycles can be tough on delicate fabrics such as wool, silk, and lace. These programmes in machines use a low temperature and minimum drum movements to safeguard the delicate fabrics from wear and tear.
Cotton
Cotton requires a little hard treatment and warmer water conditions. So, most front load washing machines are equipped with a cotton wash programme.
Synthetics or Easy Care
Synthetic fabrics such as viscose, nylon, and rayon need slightly more delicate washing than cotton. If you don’t have a synthetic wash programme you can use delicate, wool and hand wash programmes instead.
Spin Speed: Is Higher Always Better?
Spin speed is the speed at which the drum rotates. It is measured in RPM (Revolution Per Minute). Higher the number faster will be the machine at squeezing out water from wet clothes.
A good front loader has a minimum of 1200 rpm spin speed. You can expect the spin speed of an average top load washing machine to be around 700 to 900 rpm. Recently, LG and Samsung are taking the lead in top-load washing machines with 1050 RPM spin speed.
Some models even let you adjust the spin speed depending on the type of cloth you are washing. For eg: you can set 600 RPM for delicates and 1200 for towels and sheets.
The spin speed matters the most in humid conditions and monsoons. But it’s not the ultimate deciding factor of an efficient washing machine. Slower machines often beat their counterparts with user-friendly features and better cleaning abilities.
Some Top of the Line Washing Machines Technologies
Inverter Technology to save on the electricity bills
Inverter technology is one revolutionary technology that works to save energy. Depending on the load it optimizes the speed of the motor, which in turn saves energy.
A regular motor always runs at its optimum speed and is not able to adjust the speed according to the load. Whereas motors with inverter technology can determine the motor speed based on the load.
So, you end up saving quite a lot on your electricity bills as you don’t wash the same laundry each day.
Direct Drive Technology for silent operations
Previous washing machines used to have motors connected to the drum with belts, pulleys, and discs. So, at the time of washing these movable parts used to vibrate and made a considerable amount of noise.
In direct drive technology, the motor is directly connected to the drum. It is done to provide effective cleaning results without making much noise, increase durability and save energy.
Most of the washing machines come with direct drive technology. If you are sensitive to background noises make sure your machine has direct drive technology.
Dual Load with Samsung Flexwash and LG Twinwash
If you have the budget you can opt for these huge machines with Flexwash and Twinwash technologies. These are one of the best washing machine inventions done so far.
With Samsung’s Flexwash you have the flexibility to use both front-load and top-load facilities in a single machine. The main front-load chamber has a capacity of whooping 21 kgs whereas the top loader is a compact 3.5 kgs.
It allows you to wash bulky items such as blankets, duvets, bed sheets along with smaller items like socks, lingerie, and handkerchiefs together in two different compartments.
LG has very similar Twinwash technology proving two separate drums for washing. The main drum has a capacity of 20 gms, with the mini drum placed just below it. It functions similarly to Flexwash.
LG 6 Motion DD and Whirlpool WaveMotion offer multiple cleaning styles
LG premium range models have the 6 Motion DD technology. It is a technology that offers 6 different types of washing suitable for different types of fabrics. It includes- tumbling, stepping, scrubbing, swing, rolling, and filtration.
Whirlpool has similar concept wash methods which the brand calls WaveMotion. It has smart sensors to detect the load and set a suitable wash programme. It offers 4 styles of washing which are- soft cardle wash, energetic wash, power shower, and slow-motion wash.
Similar to LG and Whirlpool, IFB has- cradle wash, 360-degree wash, and steam wash.
Spotless Cleaning with Samsung EcoBubble and IFB O2 Wash
To offer next-level cleaning Samsung has pioneered the EcoBubble technology. It produces millions of bubbles that inflate around the garments and penetrates deep inside the fabric to remove the most stubborn stains. It provides deep cleaning without causing any damage to the fabric.
Similar to EcoBubble Wash, IFB has O2 wash or the AirBubble wash which uses the same method.
Different Drum Technologies of Samsung and Bosch
Bosch VarioDrum features one of the most advanced drum technologies. The drum has a wave-droplet like drum surface which has one flat side and one steep side. The steep side provides a thorough cleaning and the flat side gently cleanses the textiles.
Samsung too has adopted a unique and advanced drum technology called Diamond Drum. It has a diamond embossed drum surface. It minimizes the exposure to harmful washing effects to ensure the longevity of the garments. The water-exit holes are 25% smaller to reduce friction and protect fabrics from wear and tear.
Along with Diamond Drum Samsung has Eco Drum Cleaning Technology. It is meant to sanitize the drum to get rid of unpleasant odour, water stains, and other residues from the drum.
Technologies for Hard Water Processing
It becomes very difficult to clean clothes with hard water. It’s not able to dissolve detergent like soft water. To face the problems, brands like IFB, Whirlpool, and Maytag are equipping their models with hard water treatment technologies.
IFB has Aqua Energie which has an in-built Aqua Filter to dissolve heavy salts. Whirlpool has a separate Hard Water wash option in their new line of semi-automatic washing machines. It can effectively remove stains using hard water.
Another brand Maytag is making front-load washing machines with the ability to wash in hard water.
Hot Water Treatment with Built-in Heaters
Premium front load washing machines by Samsung have in-built ceramic heaters. Not only do they remove stains better but also prevent hard-salt buildup.
Whirlpool is the only brand to introduce in-built heaters in top-load washing machines. It’s capable of heating the water at 60 degrees C.
Soak Better with Super Soak and Bubble Soak
Samsung has super Soak Technology which thoroughly soaks clothes in bubbles to help remove the toughest of stains.
Similarly, Whirlpool has Bubble Soak technology with increased soaking power for easy removal of stains.
Noiseless Operation Using VTR+ and AntiVibration Technologies
The whirring and buzzing sounds of the washing machines have always been a concern to many customers. And to ensure customer satisfaction brands are developing new technologies to keep noise levels at a bare minimum.
Bosch excels in this area with their patent AntiVibration technologies. It has enhanced insulation in the drum to reduce vibrations during spin cycles.
Likewise, Samsung has VTR+ technology which stands for Vibration Reduction Technology Plus. An advanced form of VRT technology that reduces vibration to a great extent.
Washing Machines with Auto Detergent Dispensers
It’s a tough job to come up with the right amount of detergent for the laundry load. Less detergent can leave odour and stains, while more detergent can spill bubbles out of the machine or waste too much water in the process.
To come up with a solution, manufacturers are providing auto dispensers in their high-end models.
Whirlpool has Auto Detergent Dosage, which cleverly determines the optimum detergent dosage according to the amount of load and soiling in the clothes.
Likewise, Bosch has iDOS in its 6 and 8 series high-end washing machines. It automatically decides the detergent dosage depending on the hardness of the water and soiling in the clothes.
Best Washing Machine Brands in India and Their Best Features
1. LG
LG is one of the world’s best washing machine brands. Their washing machines are mostly on the expensive side but they are reliable and efficient powerful machines with stunning designs. They also have a wide customer service network around India.
LG’s best Technologies are:
- Smart Inverter Technology
- 6 motion Direct Drive Technology
- Turbo Drum
- Jet Spray etc.
Why choose LG washing machines?
- Energy-efficient machines
- Commendable after-sales service
- Durable robust machines
Multiple cleaning styles
2. IFB
IFB launched the first-ever front load washing machine in India. Now the brand has over 250 retail shops in Indian, making it one of India’s top-selling washing machine brands. IFB technologies give tough competition to LG, Samsung, and Bosch.
IFB’s Best Technologies are:
- O2 Wash
- Aqua Energie
- 3D Wash
- Ball Valve Technology etc
Why choose IFB?
- Offers full value for money
- Convenient, user-friendly features
- Advanced features
Reliable customer support
3. Samsung
The South Korean brand owns one of the best-designed washing machines. They are always innovative with their technologies. And keep the price within the average people’s budget. Samsung has the biggest after-sales service network in India.
Samsung’s best Technologies are:
- Eco Bubble Wash
- Diamond Drum
- Wobble Technology
- Eco Drum Clean etc.
Why choose Samsung washing machines?
- Simple, smart, and convenient machines
- Best kind of sleek and stylish design
- Innovative cleaning technologies
- After-sales service network
4. Whirlpool
Whirlpool is the manufacturer of the world’s best-built washing machines. They have a customer service network of over 3500 towns and cities in India.
Whirlpool’s Best Technologies are:
- WaveMotion wash
- Catalytic soak
- Built-in heaters
- 360-degree wash and cradle wash etc
Why choose Whirlpool?
- Best build quality
- Access to immediate customer support
- Experienced for more than 100 years
Whirlpool apps for quick solutions and repairs
5. Bosch
Bosch is known for solid German build quality. It’s among one of the best brands that manufacture front load washing machines. They have stunning designs and advanced technologies to offer efficient noiseless cleaning.
Bosch’s Best Technologies are:
- Anti Vibration Drum
- Vario Drum
- Active Water plus
- Eco Silent Drum etc
Why choose Bosch?
- Solid German build quality
- Makes less noise
- Energy efficient
Environment friendly
Faqs:
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Top load washing machine or front load washing machine- which one is better?
With dozens of advanced technologies, front-load washing machines make the job easier. They use less water, consume less power, and do less damage to clothes. But they are so costly because of these benefits.
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How do you choose a washing machine?
1. According to your budget, first, decide on the type- semi-automatic or fully-automatic. If automatic then top load or front load?
2. Then decide on the washing machine size based on the number of family members in your house. For eg: a 7 kg washing machine is ideal for a family of 3 to 4 members.
3. Then look for useful features, and technologies that match your needs.
4. Choose a washing machine from a reputable brand to ensure after-sale service and a valid warranty. -
How much detergent to use?
How much detergent you need will depend on water hardness, dirt levels, and washing machine type.
Generally, you need to use 2 tablespoons of liquid detergent, 1 ½ tablespoon for soft water, 1 ⅓ – 1 ¼ powder detergent.
If you notice soap bubbles on clothes after the rinse, you are using more detergent. -
Liquid detergent vs powder detergent- which is better?
Liquid detergents are better than powder detergents because they get easily dissolved in water. And they don’t leave white sticky residues on clothes. Most liquid detergents are also gentler than powder detergents.
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How can I prevent the tangling of clothes in washing machines?
Top loading washing machines have agitators or impellers. When washing with tumbling motions it tangles clothes. Front-load washing machines don’t have agitators or impellers. So, they don’t cause tangling of clothes.
Conclusion
So, these were the most important factors one needs to keep in mind when searching for the best washing machine in the Indian market.
Ultimately, how you choose your washing machine will depend on your budget and your needs. But be wise, because a washing machine is a big investment that’s going to last a minimum of 10 years.
You can compromise on a few features but don’t compromise on the quality and durability. Semi-automatic, front load, top load whichever you have decided to buy, buy it from a reputable brand that offers good after-sales service and comes with valid warranties.
Did you find our washing machine buying guide helpful? Do you have any doubts? Let us know in the comment section below.
