Which washing machine suits my family
A washing machine for a family is not a luxury but a necessity nowadays. To keep the household running, a washing machine full of laundry has to be started and unloaded several times a week. To make this household chore as easy as possible, washing machines on the market today have several features.
The washing machines are becoming more and more user friendly. For example, a number of washing machines can be controlled remotely and you can use an app to check how far the washing machine has progressed in its programme. And with the AddWash washing machine, you can add that one pair of trousers that was dirty when the washing machine was turned on. This is very convenient for busy families!
Best washing machines for a family in 2023
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The GE GFW650SSNWW front load washer has a large 4.8 cu. ft. maximum capacity that is perfect to wash more clothes at once, saving you lots of time. Weighing just 246 lbs., with measurements of 32 inches deep, 39.75 inches high and 28 inches wide, this beautiful machine will fit in many laundry spaces and closets. Place it wherever you please because the glass door is reversible, giving you a lot of flexibility in placement. Stack it with your favorite GE dryer and save even more space.
This machine is energy efficient, with an EER of Tier I, consuming only 158kWh per year. Dry your clothes faster because it comes with a maximum spin speed of 1300 RPM. A variety of choices is available to you with 12 wash cycles, from your delicates to heavy, bulky bedding. When you’re in a hurry, the 20-minute Quick Wash cycle will be there to save you. Finish a full load within 37 minutes with the Time Saver function. Sanitize + Allergen is a dedicated cycle designed to protect you and your family by removing 99% of common bacteria and allergens such as dust mites. For clothes that need the extra cleaning power, there is the Power Clean cycle.
This machine comes with the PowerSteam function that safely penetrates fabric fibers to loosen stains. The UltraFresh vent system with OdorBlock function eliminates excess moisture in your machine to help prevent odors and bacterial growth, so your washer stays fresh and clean. Moreover, the Microban antibacterial technology is built into the parts like the gasket, dispenser and draining system, further protecting you and your family from harmful germs. Dynamic Balancing Technology (dBT™) is GE’s patented, time saving technology that senses and rebalances uneven loads during a spin cycle, providing a quieter wash. The SmartDispense technology allows your washer to hold up to 32 loads of detergent that automatically dispenses when you start a wash cycle. The GE GFW650SSNWW is perfect for a modern, smart-home and can be controlled with an app in your phone because it is Wi-Fi ready.
The GE GFW650SSNWW comes with a power cord.
The Samsung WF45R6100AC is perfect for your home. This high-efficiency front load washer has a substantial maximum capacity of 4.5 cu. ft., helps you fit more in every load and cut down on laundry time. Measuring 31.4 inches deep, 38.75 inches high and 27 inches wide and weighing just 201 lbs., the standard size will allow you to fit it in small laundry spaces and closets. Stack it on a matching Samsung dryer, either model DVE45R6100C or model DVG45R6100C or prop it on the matching Samsung WE402NC pedestal to customize your laundry space. The left swing metal door allows you to look inside your washer.
Impressively economical with an Energy Efficiency Rating of Tier I, consuming a measly 80 kWh/year. It comes with a powerful maximum spin speed of 1200 RPM allowing your washing machine to remove most of the water from your clothes at the end of a wash cycle. 10 wash cycles provide you with the most important presets you need: Bedding, Delicates, Heavy Duty, Normal, Permanent Press, Rinse & Spin, Sanitize, Speed Wash, and Whites. It also comes with 7 additional washing options so you can choose the optimal way to clean a specific load.
Features include a steam function that provides powerful stain removal without pretreatment while still being gentle on your clothing. Self Clean+ gives your washer the ability to remove 99% of common household bacteria and remind you to clean the drum every 40 wash cycles. Enjoy a quiet wash with the VRT Plus Technology which reduces vibration and noise when your machine is running. The Swirl+Drum interior is designed so the water will flow more easily to help remove extra moisture in your clothes. Choose between 5 temperature levels, as some stains and dirt wash more easily with hot or cold water. This washer is Accessibility Certified with ADA Compliant4, AUI, Braille so more people are free to use it. With Smart Care, any problem you encounter with your washing machine can be easily solved with a smartphone app, saving you the trouble of calling customer service. Discover more of its impressive features when you bring this machine home.
The Samsung WF45R6100AC comes with a power cord. Stacking kit model SKK-8K sold separately.
Look no further than the LG WM3900HWA front load washer for your next washing machine. With a particularly large capacity of 4.5 cu. ft., it’s big enough to take on the large loads you throw at it. Prop it on a LG SideKick pedestal washer, sold separately, to wash additional smaller loads, or stack it with your favorite LG dryer. Weighing only 187.4 lbs. at measurements of 30.25 inches deep, 39 inches high and 27 inches wide, this machine will fit in most laundry spaces and closets. The LG WM3900HWA has a left swing, first-in-the-industry tempered glass door for that sleek, stylish look that resists scratches and shock.
Enjoy a powerful machine with a spin speed of 1300 RPM to greatly reduce the time clothes need to be in the washing machine. Energy Efficiency Rating is certified at Tier II, and it only consumes 105kWH of energy per year, saving you money in the long run. You have an abundance of choice with how to wash your laundry with 10 wash cycle options including the Allergiene cycle that uses the gentle power of steam, to not only clean and sanitize your clothes, but also remove allergens and germs.
This washer is not only designed with a premium, timeless look, but also impressive functionality. Built-in with AI technology, the LG WM3900HWA takes out the guesswork by selecting the optimal wash or dry settings. Deep clean with the power of steam with this AAFA certified washer with the Allergiene cycle that removes over 95% of pet dander and dust. With the LG ThinQ app, control your washer from virtually anywhere, anytime. Proactive Customer Care sends recommended maintenance tips and usage reports to help keep your appliance running at their best. The ColdWash technology penetrates deep into fabrics for cold water savings with warm water performance. With the LG TubClean system, you don't have to worry about mold, mildew or musty odors. Simply select the TubClean cycle, add liquid bleach or other cleaner and let the washer do the work to thoroughly clean and dry the tub, door and gaskets. LG 's TrueBalance Anti-Vibration and LoDecibel systems are designed for quiet operation that keeps even big loads in balance to reduce washer noise and vibration. Enjoy all these along with standard features such as Add Garment (pause), Adjustable Legs, Built-in Drawer, Control Lock, Delay Start, End-Of-Cycle Signal, and Front Control.
Installation hardware included.
The Whirlpool WFW5620HW is the front load washer that you have been looking for. This machine can take up to 4.5 cu. ft. of laundry at one time, a large capacity that will allow you to spend less time on washing clothes, and more with your family. This left swing, stackable washing machine will fit in most laundry closets with closet-depth measurements of 31.56 inches deep, 38.63 inches high and 27 inches wide. Save even more space with the Built-in drawer, where you can store your laundry supplies.
This machine is Energy Star Certified with an Energy Efficiency Rating of Tier I, consuming a measly 105kWh/year. With a maximum spin speed of 1160 RPM, your clothes come out dryer, so it spends less time in the tumble dryer or the clothesline. Save and customize up to an unbelievable 35 wash cycle settings to get the right type of fabric care for any of your laundry.
Let’s talk about features. Whirlpool’s Load & Go dispenser allows you to add up to 20 loads of detergent at once, automatically dispensing the right amount of detergent in each cycle. If you need to use a different detergent, don’t worry because the single load dispenser is always ready. Get clothes ready quickly with Quick Wash which finishes a 3 lb. load within 20 minutes. Remove tough dirt with Steam Clean. Give your most vibrant colors the care they need with the Cold Wash cycle that adjusts wash actions and time, combined with gentle temperatures, to provide optimal fabric care. The Presoak option lets you skip soaking outside of the washer. Run the Clean Washer with AFFRESH cycle to clean your washer every 30 washes with an AFFRESH Washer Cleaner tablet or simply a liquid chlorine bleach to fight bacterial growth. Enjoy these special features along with standard Whirlpool features like Control Lock, Cycle Status Indicator, End-Of-Cycle Signal, Spin Speed Option and more.
The Whirlpool WFW5620HW comes with hoses and a power cord.
The Electrolux EFLS627UTT front load washer has a capacity of 4.4 cubic feet, large enough for a growing family like yours. With compact measurements of 32 in (depth) by 38 in (height) and 27 in (width) at 237 lb., plus a reversible washer door, it fits perfectly in many places. It’s also stackable so you can save even more space. With a stainless-steel drum, you can be assured that it’s durable and low maintenance.
This amazing washing machine features Electronic LED controls that also displays the Cycle Status for easy operation. Delay Start allows you to start your wash cycle at your most convenient time while the End-Of-Cycle Signal alerts you when your load is done. Because Luxury-Design Lighting illuminates the inside of your washer, it’s easier to find any article of clothing.
Additionally, it’s economical with an Energy Efficiency rating of Tier II, and an energy consumption of 85kWH/year. With a Spin Speed of 1300 RPM, minimize the amount of time your clothes spend drying on the line. With 10 wash cycles including Delicates, Hand washable, Heavy Duty, Rinse & Spin, Speed Wash, and Whites, you have the option to choose the perfect setting for your laundry.
This Electrolux EFLS627UTT Front Load washer is not only chic with its gorgeous color options of titanium or white, but also packed with many incredible features. The Special Steam technology releases heat from the bottom up, so dirt is gently lifted from fabric. The SmartBoost feature premixes your preferred detergent and water before a wash cycle, maximizing the cleaning power and allowing it to clean your clothes more effectively. To remove tougher dirt, StainSoak combines the detergent, water and stain remover solution. What’s more is it’s also eco-friendly with Automatic Water Level Adjustment, ensuring there is as little water waster as possible.
The Electrolux EFLS627UTT pairs with the optional pedestal storage drawer (Model #EPWD257UTT) to create additional height and extra laundry storage space. Power cord included.
Washing machine payload against persons
The number of people in a family determines the desired fill weight, also known as the load capacity. This is the amount of laundry in kilograms that can fit into the drum, washing it to a good quality. For a family of 3, we recommend a load weight of 7kg. For a family of 4-5, we recommend a load weight of 8-9 kilograms. For a family of more than 5 persons, we recommend a fill weight of 10-12 kilos. It is not always the right choice to go higher than recommended. A half-full washing machine will consume unnecessary energy per wash. If a washing machine has a load sensor, and the wash programs are adjusted to the fill weight, this is less important. However, it is advisable to buy a washing machine that is suitable for the number of people in your household, because then you will wash the most energy-efficiently.
| 1 – 2 people | 3 people | 4 people | 5 people | 6 people |
| 6 kilogram | 7 kilogram | 8 kilogram | 10 kilogram | 12 kilogram |
What to look out for when buying a washing machine
Washing machines come in many shapes and sizes. If you are not an expert in this area, it can be difficult to know what to look for. Because you are buying a washing machine for a number of years (preferably as long as possible), you want to make sure you choose a suitable and user-friendly model. Features of the washing machine that you should look for are: fill weight, energy consumption, ease of use, washing preferences, wash quality, build quality, wash programmes and possibly the noise level and even brand specific extra features. We take a closer look at the different parts and what you can look for.
- Energy class: The energy class of a washing machine varies from A+ to A+++. The higher the percentage, the more economical. This can make a considerable difference in energy costs. A more expensive but environmentally friendly model can therefore pay for itself by saving energy, especially if you look at the savings over the life years of the washing machine.
- Filling weight: If you choose a washing machine for a family, then you are assuming 3 or more people. For 3 to 4 people, 8 kilograms is enough, but for 5 or more people, 9 kilograms is more appropriate. Taking the right number of people into account is useful to avoid using unnecessary energy. Too high a load results in unnecessarily empty washing drums, which can lead to wasted energy and water if there is no load sensor. A too small fill weight leads to unnecessarily many washes, which can also lead to wasted water and energy, and to user dissatisfaction. These guidelines are there to help you choose the right size, you can of course always deviate from them.
- Ease of use: The ease of use is determined by various specifications, such as a residual timer, delayed start, adding wash in between, load sensor, operation via an app, automatic detergent dosing, steam function, self-cleaning detergent drawer, clothes protector, drum lighting and automatic switch-off. Which specifications a washing machine has depends on the model. Depending on your own preference you can choose for these conveniences or not. Of course, the more conveniences, the more expensive the washing machine.
- Washing preferences: A washing machine can have features that allow it to satisfy certain washing preferences, such as delicate fabrics, sensitive skin, sports clothes, extra fast (<60 minutes), water and energy efficient, reduced wear. If you are interested in any of these preferences, select them in the search.
- Washing quality: The washing quality of a family washing machine is divided into basic, medium and top classes. Laundry quality is determined by the following features: wash result A, automatic detergent dosage, load sensor, steam function, extra rinse function, clothes protector, self-cleaning detergent drawer and drum cleaning. A washing machine is considered top-of-the-range if it has at least 75% of these features. If the washing machine has between 50 and 70% of the features, it is a middle-range model. A basic class model has less than half of the features mentioned. A washing machine is available in every class. We recommend that you choose a middle or top-of-the-range washing machine.
- Build quality: The build quality can also be divided into three classes: basic class, middle class and top class. Build quality is determined by the presence of: metal housing with enamel, stainless steel drum, stainless steel tub, brushless motor, balance system, self-cleaning detergent drawer, 3 types of water protection and drum cleaning. If a washing machine has more than 70% of the above features, then it is a top class model. A 1400 rpm washing machine with 50 to 70% of the features is in the middle class. If it has less than 50% of the features, it is a basic class machine. We recommend buying a top of the range washing machine, this promises to be a more durable model. These washing machines are often a bit more expensive to buy because of their features, but they often pay for themselves because of their durability.
- Noise Level: The noise level of the washing machine varies and is on average 74 to 76 dB. A quiet washing machine has 73 dB or less and can be ideal if you run laundry mainly at night or near a child’s room. A normal washing machine has a noise level of 74 to 77 dB and a loud washing machine has a noise level of 78 dB or higher. Almost every 1400 rpm washing machine has a noise level within the ‘normal’ or ‘quiet’ category.
- Washing programmes: There are several different wash programs. As well as a short and ecological programme, there are also programmes for specific purposes, garments, types of clothing or fabrics: allergies, jeans, sportswear, outdoor clothes, sports shoes, silk, down, shirts, baby clothes, dark wash, mixed wash, bedding, curtains, impregnation and stains.
- Brand-specific additional features: Washing machines also have brand-specific features, which are linked to the brand of the washing machine itself. These features often have a distinctive name and generally make using the washing machine even easier. For example, you can add extra laundry in between washes, use the steam function or automatically dose the amount of detergent.
- Price: The price of a washing machine for the family ranges from €400 to €1500. The more expensive the washing machine, the more options it has and the greater the ease of use. In addition, a more expensive washing machine is often more durable, resulting in a longer lifespan, less wear and tear and fewer breakdowns or repairs. However, this depends on many factors and is certainly not a linear relationship. It’s worth checking whether you’re really getting more for the extra money, as this can more than pay for itself over the years, especially in the case of a more environmentally friendly model.