Investing in useful home appliances can be a great idea for convenience and comfort. If you buy the right machine, you can easily cut down on your house chores and expenses in the longer run. It is always a great idea to save and buy something that will serve you and benefit you for a long time. A washing machine is one such machine that is extremely helpful. There is a lot of effort that goes into washing and drying laundry, and having an efficient machine for that purpose could save time for you. Are you planning to buy one? Here are a few things that you should remember to buy the best washing machine.
Fully-automatic or semi-automatic?
There are two major types of machines. One is semi-automatic and the other is fully automatic. Fully automatic is rather a modern invention with better options and advanced comfort. The semi-automatic machine has two drums, and the fully automatic machine is just a single drum. However, it is not always the best option for people who have a hard time with tech. The two drums are used for washing and drying. On the other hand, fully automatic machines are much more advanced and consume much less water than the old school machine primarily because of the single drum doing everything.
Top-load or front-load
Furthermore, there are two types of machines in fully automatic machines. The top-load and front-load.
Front-load:
The front-load machine has paddles which reduce the wear and tear on the clothes. It has a door on the front which makes it easier to stack inside a cabinet or under a countertop, allowing more space for other things. Front-load washing machines are believed to consume much less water than the top loads. However, it might have longer wash cycles. A downside is that it could be a problem for people with joints pain to bend down to put and take out the laundry. Lastly, front loaders are on the expensive side and not everyone could easily afford them.
Top-load:
Top-load machines have agitators which can cause wear and tear to the clothes much faster. There’s a lid on the top which is good for people with joint pain but can be a problem for small apartments. As it will consume much more space. Top-loaders consume a bit more water than front-loaders. The wash cycles are relatively shorter as well. Top-load washing machines are easy on the pocket as well and most people can afford them.
Wash settings
Check the wash settings before buying a washing machine. There are multiple options like cotton, synthetic, hand wash, woolen, outdoor, quick cycle, etc. Furthermore, there should be the option of setting the spin cycles, fasten the cycle, temperature settings, and time delay program.
Size and capacity
The size of the machine is an important factor. The size also depicts the capacity of the drum. You should get the one which suits your family and the load of the laundry. It also depends on how many times a week you can wash the clothes. To buy the best washing machine, analyze your circumstances and then get the one which is the best suited for your family as well as the space in your home. The capacity is directly proportional to the size of the machine. Moreover, the energy consumption also increases when the size and capacity are larger. It ranges from 5-10kgs. If you have a big family check out the bigger ones, or if you are planning to wash king-size comforters then as well.
Material of drum
There are different types of drums including stainless steel, plastic, and porcelain enamel. Stainless steel is the most long-lasting type but it is expensive as well. Plastic drums are pocket-friendly but are more prone to damage over time. Enamel can easily rust and chip as well.
Safety options
Check for the safety options like child lock, water over-flow control, garment over-load sign, auto restart, rodent protection, and spin cycle selection as well. These are important functions to ensure safety for your household at all times. These will protect you from any severe damage to the property or lives.
Soak option
Soak option is great for households with children. Children tend to dirty the clothes and therefore, soak option helps in better and more efficient cleaning. It can also allow pre-washing with bleaching agents.
Energy consumption
Energy consumption should also be considered to make sure you buy the best washing machine for your usage. Some machines consume a lot of water and electricity, while the rest uses minimal of it. Moreover, now there are machines with inverter technology for minimal electricity consumption.
