Washing machines are one of those household essentials that you probably don't think about very much until you need to buy a new one. Of course, they are essential appliances for the home that not only clean your laundry, but protect and care for delicate fabrics too; making sure your most precious items can be cleaned without getting damaged.



One specific choice to decide upon when buying your new machine is whether you want a freestanding or integrated model. If you don't want to hide your washing machine away then a freestanding model may be for you. As it goes, such types of washing machines simply slot beneath your standard kitchen worktops, meaning you can see the front; and with a wide array of different colours and textures to choose from, you can really make sure yours stands out from the crowd. Alternatively, you may also vouch for an option that complements your existing kitchens colour and design.

However, if you would rather blend your washing machine into the rest of your kitchen then an integrated washing machine may be more appropriate. Integrated, or built in washing machines, are simply fitted into your existing kitchen units with a cupboard door closing over the front of the machine itself, meaning the washer stays concealed when the cupboard door is closed. And if you prefer to keep machines and appliances out of sight, this may be the perfect way for you to do so.

What's more, it is also important that you make the right choices when it comes to the more technical side of things. Spin speed is one feature you may want to look out for, as the faster the spin speed, the dryer your clothes will be when the cycle is finished. As a result, you spend less energy, money and time drying your clothes after they've been washed.

Spin speeds tend to range from between 1000rpm to 1600rpm, whilst some of the more recent models tend to offer a variable speed feature, which allows you to chop and choose as you need. Thicker materials may need to spin that little bit faster to get rid of excess water whereas more delicate fabrics are better suited to slower speeds, as this is less likely to cause damage.

The wash capacity is another deciding factor with options ranging from 3kg to a more accommodating 10kg. In fact, the larger the capacity then the more laundry you can wash at one time; therefore, households occupied with a single person or a couple may opt for a smaller capacity, whereas family households may feel a larger capacity machine is more suitable.

In addition, a larger drum washing machine also helps to reduce creasing in your laundry, as there is more room for items to move around. Indeed, this can prove a great option if you would rather avoid the ironing!

A final consideration is the energy efficient rating of your machine. Rating ?A? is the most efficient, whilst ?G? is the least; therefore, if environmental friendliness is important to you then look out for this. Of course, there are many factors to consider when purchasing a new washing machine, but it is possible for washing machine shopping to be made easy. And with a varied range of washing machines available, the most difficult decision may be choosing the one that best suits your needs.