Finding the best washing machine at a reasonable price can put you in a spin — even before considering the cost of using it in the long run. Appliance brands have upped their game in the technology department, with smart innovations and better performance than we’ve ever seen before, meaning the washer options in 2023 are endless.
If you are on this page, chances are that your washing machine has already broken, it's on its last legs, or you're just not getting the best clean from it. Either way, you probably need a new one ASAP. So, to help speed up the process, you can read our expert washer reviews of the best makes and models on the market. From integrated, freestanding, washer-dryer, and eco-friendly models, we’ve rounded up the most affordable buys of 2023.
Covering all elements, like eco-rating to the variety of spin cycles and how quiet (or loud) they wash, we’ve compared brands such as Haier, AEG, Bosch, and Samsung to find you the best. More importantly, we’ve considered their key performance specifications, including energy rating and capacity. The cost of living is at an all-time high and the more we can save on bills, the better. So check out our best washing machines below before heading to the best tumble dryers to lighten your laundry pile with ease.
The best washing machines to buy in 2024
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Our best overall washing machine is this top-performance piece from Haier. It’s perfect for small families, with a reasonably-sized drum, that lights up to see what's inside and a quiet wash, all at a reasonable price. You, our Real Homes readers, voted it the 'Best Washing Machine' in the Real Homes Awards 2021, so we know we're on to a winner. Not to mention its glowing reviews from customers.
Features
No matter what garment you’re washing, there’s a programme to match. From baby care to outdoor, all walks of life are covered. There’s a refresh programme that uses water-vapour technology to remove odours, dust and allergies. Your clothes will smell fresher and feel softer for longer. Plus, there’s an option to change the length of these programmes from their pre-set times, if you want to save money or just don’t have the time for a long cycle.
Since it’s a relatively quiet wash too, you can even set its timer to wash overnight so your laundry will be ready to dry first thing in the morning. In fact, it’s one of the quietest models in this guide, so don’t worry about waking the family.
Energy efficiency and cost
Rated A for energy consumption (which is exceptional since they updated the gradings), this machine goes one step further by offering load detection. This measures the load you've added and makes sure it uses just the right amount of water, so none gets wasted. At a more than reasonable price tag of just over £500, it's a no-brainer buy.
Just missing the top spot due to its smaller drum capacity making it less suited to average size families and more for the couples and those who live alone, this Bosch Serie 4 washing machine is the runner-up best washing machine. Why? It has all the features you’d need at a more than affordable price.
Features
It’s quiet (though not the quietest) and offers a great selection of spin cycles from super quick settings, to mixed load and all your usual laundry needs. This is another washing machine with a drum designed to be gentle on your clothes. The automatic load adjustment reduces fabric distortion, so clothes keep their shape, even during spin cycles. Sensors in the washing machine also adjust programme times precisely, ensuring the best treatment for every type of garment – fresh, clean feeling clothes guaranteed.
Energy efficiency and cost
This small washing machine is also great in the energy efficiency department (don't be put off by the D which is mid-range based on updated energy gradings), but not just down to the fact you might be washing fewer clothes, if you’re a single person household. Rather, this Bosch model has an EcoSilence drive that reduces energy loss and SpeedPerfect feature that keeps washing time to a minimum, no matter the size of your load. And, you can unlock the door at the beginning, and mid-wash if you happened to have dropped an item on your way from the laundry basket to the machine.
As featured on our best integrated washing machine guide, this washer from AEG has some clever tech which is extra careful with delicate garments. It has an 8kg washing load capacity, as average for a small-medium size family with a quiet spin.
Features
AEG’s ProSense technology will keep your clothes looking their best for as long as possible. It works by automatically weighing each load to provide a tailored cycle. Sensors are used to adjust washing times precisely, ensuring optimum treatment for every load. Looking at customer reviews, there was big credit to the short and gentle steam programme which safely removes odours and reduces creases in dry fabrics. You can also finish your wash cycle with a gentle steam so clothes need little to no ironing.
Energy efficiency
It may be a little more expensive than others, but thanks to AEG's OKOPower, its short washing programme produces excellent results which is ideal for daily use. DirectSpray makes more efficient use of the water in your washing machine, making it cost effective in the long run. It continuously showers your clothes throughout the cycle so that the entire load is soaked and washed more evenly. It also helps to improve performance by making sure pre-mixed detergents and softeners are better distributed throughout the wash.
We were fortunate to get our hands on this washer dryer and can say that it set us in a (good) spin. It's one which we couldn't strongly fault during testing and feel that it is an appliance which busy, family households couldn't be without. As such, it ended up with the top spot in our best washer dryer guide.
Features
The washer dryer uses a combination of a touch-screen and dial to navigate through the programmes. It's easy enough to get the hang of the different settings but, if you're more comfortable using a more hands-on dial then it may be worth seeing this appliance before buying. On some of the 14 programmes there is a stain removal function which did a pretty good job at removing soy sauce, ketchup and red wine. It even made a good effort at removing Biro ink from our reviewer's cotton napkin – and we all know how stubborn those stains can be. Throughout the washing, spinning and drying programmes you could hear that it was working, which is quite loud considering how quiet some other models can be, unfortunately.
Energy efficiency and cost
The Auto Weight function – one of the many things our reviewer was impressed with – will automatically reduce the washing time for some programmes – Cotton, Synthetics, Mix, Cotton 20ºC, Eco 40-60ºC – minimising energy, water and cycle duration. When it comes to overall efficiency, the washer dryer version of the Haier Pro Series is not as well rated as the A rated 80kg washer only above, but do note washer dryers compromise a little in some areas to allow for wider functionality. And for the same cost as one stand-alone washing machine, or dryer, this 2-in-1 option will save you space, time and money now (and in the future).
This washing machine from LG offers a bigger and more powerful wash in a shorter amount of time, all while using less energy. Plus, it can be controlled from your smartphone, which makes the laundry process significantly easier. Yes, it's pretty expensive for the average budget, but considering the size and spec, it is a good buy. Looking for LG but have a smaller budget to spend? Take a look at our LG washing machine reviews for more options.
Features
Designed for larger families with large loads of laundry in mind, this machine offers a generous 12kg drum capacity, without having to take up any additional space in your kitchen. Simply put, it has twice the load size but the same dimensions as other models on this list. It's not the quietest of machines, but its size is a good enough excuse as to why. There’s also a function called 'Pause & Add Items', which will release the door within three seconds, so you can add to the wash through the main door. Odd sock on the floor, sorted. What's more the app-connectivity of this machine might be of interest to those considering a smart washing machine.
Energy efficiency and cost
It comes with the most efficient A energy rating for the eco-conscious, with smart technology that lets you manage your water cycles and energy consumption from your phone. Thanks to SmartThinQ™ technology, you’re able to track your machine's cycle to avoid returning home to a machine full of damp-smelling clothing, and troubleshoot any minor issues before they become a bigger problem. It also has a reduced rate of water consumption, while washing your clothes in as little as 49 minutes, saving you time and money. This technology, when used in conjunction with the specialised Turbowash setting, can reduce energy consumption by up to 15 per cent and water consumption by up to 40 per cent. We approve.
This might not be the most energy efficient on this list, but the Beko SteamCure RecycledTub™, is a super affordable buy at under £300, you can rely on. Made from recycled plastic bottles, you can know you'll be doing your part for the environment in other ways, too.
Features
This Beko StreamCure RecycledTub, surprisingly has more features than other more expensive models. Including a top steam setting that will wash and remove stubborn stains in as little as 30 minutes – great if you’re on the go or live a busy professional life. It’ll also let you add in an item you left in the washing basket at the beginning of a recently started cycle. Handy. Even easier, this washing machine is controllable from your smartphone, meaning you can operate it via an app.
Energy efficiency and cost
With a 28 minute wash cycle and a C energy efficiency rating, we know it isn't the best on the market in regard to cost effectiveness. But, overall, reviews suggest this is a super reliable washing machine that endures minimal breakdowns or need of repair. If you’re in a couple or live alone especially, where it won’t be put through its paces, you won’t have to spend much on getting an electrician or spare parts to mend it. And considering its more than affordable upfront cost, it’s a worthy purchase that we’d recommend.
Considering it’s so affordable, this washing machine from Samsung is packed with special features and amazing washing performance that make doing laundry a cost-effective ordeal. And if you like the sound of a Samsung washing machines, we’ve got more best options in our guide, with 5 models and deals to choose from.
Features
This machine has what Samsung calls ‘Bubble Soak technology’ to remove stubborn stains, so it's a great choice for families. How does it work? Clothes are soaked in bubbles thoroughly, loosening and removing stains really effectively. You can even wash large loads at low temperatures using the Ecobubble™ tech, which activates the detergent to quickly penetrate fabrics, even at 15˚C. This machine will spin your clothes at 1400 rpm, with a noise level of 74dB on a spin and 53dB during a wash – a tad louder than some of the other options in our best washing machines guide, but not so as you'd notice.
Another great feature is the machine's Diamond Drum with its ‘soft curl’ design; this means it has smooth, diamond-shaped ridges inside that will clean clothes effectively but (and this is important) gently. The drum's small exit holes for water mean clothes don't get trapped (no more inexplicably lost socks, either).
Energy efficiency and cost
The high energy rating means running costs are low, while a twin water supply means you’ll get a super speedy wash in just 60 minutes, which is perfect for busy families. This works by quickly filling the drum with water, while the Speedy Spray feature cuts down on the time the rinse cycles. Want a faster wash? There's an effective 15 minute quick wash, too. And, if something does go wrong with the washing machine, the Smart Check feature will automatically detect and diagnose the problem – and you can use the Samsung app to trouble-shoot, and maybe even save yourself the inconvenience and cost of an engineer call out.
What should I look for when buying a washing machine?
When you're looking to buy a washing machine for you and your household, there are a few things to consider before investing.
Freestanding or integrated washing machine? Freestanding washing machines are best for utility rooms or unfitted kitchens. They also make sense if you're renting and will be taking the appliance with you. Integrated washing machines on the other hand are hidden behind cupboard doors and offer a streamlined look. If this is what you're after, pay special attention to size to make sure it'll fit where you need it to go.
What are your laundry needs? Think about the type of laundry you wash on a regular basis. Do you own a majority of dark clothing? Are you needing to wash whites more often? Or perhaps you wear wool, linen or lace that require delicate washing. Either way, most washing machines offer special cycles to tackle stains, school uniforms or even pet hair. So work with what you need and select a machine with a cycle you'll benefit from.
Drum capacity: Within your laundry needs will be how much washing you do each week. If you have a big family and need to accommodate numerous rounds of washing, a 9kg+ washing machine will suit; 8kg will do for the average family and 6kg to 7kg is big enough for a single household or couples.
Noise level: Quiet mark washing machines are a good option if you are designing an open-plan kitchen diner and living space or perhaps live in a small home and want quiet appliances. Look out for washing machines with a sound level of around 48dB during washing and 72dB during spinning. Our best quiet washing machines guide will have more options if this is what your ears are needing.
How much should I pay for a washing machine?
The best washing machines can cost anywhere between £250, to £2,000, depending on the size, model and brand. As we've noticed during our testing process, cheap washing machines aren't always the worst quality. In fact you can get a good, reliable washing machine for around £300–£450, like the Bosch Serie 4 WAN28081GB. This is an average top-load washer with great performance and energy efficiency. Just expect fewer features and lower spec in areas like washing time.
Considering the energy rating and how much your washing machine will cost to run is an important part of working out how much to spend on a washing machine – and a key consideration during the current cost of living climate. Some, and most, washing machine have key features that help with running costs, such as smart check monitors and speed settings to help you use less water, in a shorter space of time. Look for energy ratings and eco-features that will reduce overall costs.
How long does a washing machine last?
A washing machine will usually last around 10 years. If yours is older than eight years old and is showing signs of wear or poor performance, first book a service and ensure you maintain it well with cleaning (use our guide to cleaning a washing machine to find out how). If poor performance persists, think about replacing it.
Use a good washing machine cleaner regularly to prevent damage to its parts.
Real Homes review process
These washing machines have firstly been selected based on their great reviews from customers and overall ratings of performance and cost efficiency. With the cost of living being an important consideration at the moment, we've specifically looked for how affordable their are, their energy ratings and how much they cost to run. Comparing and contrasting this against their washing performance, special cycles and features, as well as their drum size and noise level, has sourced the best from the rest.
We've tested the washer-dryer on this list and tried the 10kg version of our top buy. We would love to try the remaining few. Where we haven't been able to test the machine itself, we take what we know about the brands (recommended by members of the team) and use third party reviews to confirm when we find a good buy.
For further information on how we test, visit the page to find out our process.