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Best washing machines 2024: Which? Best Buys and expert buying advice

You'd think all washing machines do a decent job of washing and rinsing, but our tests reveal plenty of them fail at these basic tasks
Rebecca JakemanSenior researcher & writer
Best Buy washing machines

Discover what you need to know to get the best washing machine with our expert advice and Best Buy recommendations.

We've covered everything from features to look out for to how much you should expect to pay, and whether you should choose a freestanding, integrated or top-loading washing machine.


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Best washing machines for 2024

Here’s our pick of the top Best Buys and Eco Buys, including large-capacity and integrated models, plus the cheapest machine to ace our tests.

Cheapest Best Buy washing machine


    • best buy
    • Overall cleaning
    • Energy use
    • Ease of use
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    Full Access first month £5, then £10.99 per month, cancel at any time

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    £to run per year

See more of the best cheap washing machines.

Top-scoring Best Buy washing machine


    • best buy
    • eco buy
    • Overall cleaning
    • Energy use
    • Ease of use
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    £to run per year

Best washing machine for large households


    • best buy
    • eco buy
    • Overall cleaning
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    • Ease of use
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    £to run per year

Best eco washing machine


    • best buy
    • eco buy
    • Overall cleaning
    • Energy use
    • Ease of use
    Test score
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    £to run per year


For more, see our list of energy-efficient washing machines

Best built-in washing machine


    • best buy
    • Overall cleaning
    • Energy use
    • Ease of use
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    £to run per year

Tables last checked: March 2024

Join Which? to get access to all our Best Buys and washing machine reviews. We’ve tested hundreds of washing machines from brands including Bosch, Hotpoint and Samsung, but only the very best earn our Best Buy recommendation.

Video: avoid an expensive mistake when buying a washing machine

Watch to see how our buying advice can help you avoid making the wrong choice.

Freestanding, integrated or top-loading?

Discover the difference between freestanding (the standard type), integrated (built in behind cupboard doors), top-loading washing machines and washer-dryers.

Freestanding washing machines

These are the most common type. They can be placed anywhere as long as they’re connected to a drain and a plug socket. They come in a range of sizes – from 3kg to 12kg capacities – and some models are available in different colours.

  • Pros Wider range of drum capacities, features and colours than integrated models
  • Cons Do not blend into homes like integrated models do

Integrated washing machines

These designed to sit behind a cupboard, so you don't see it when the door is closed. The bottom plinth panel is recessed to allow for the fitting of a wooden kitchen plinth along the bottom of the machine. 

Don't try to use an integrated (built-in) washing machine as a freestanding model. They're generally not as stable, as they're designed to be held in place by your kitchen unit. 

  • Pros Tend to be quieter than freestanding as the extra door on the front buffers the sound slightly
  • Cons They cost more to be installed – typically around £80. That's more than twice as much as freestanding models. Some retailers won't install integrated washing machines at all

See popular models AEG L8FC8432BI (£939) and Zanussi Z814W85BI (£649), or head to our integrated washing machine buying guide for more. 

Semi-integrated washing machines

These machines are like integrated models, but the furniture panel doesn't cover the controls at the top, so you don’t have to open the door to change the settings or read any displays. There are very few models of this type available.

Top-loading washing machines

These are quite rare in the UK. Clothes are added through a lid on the top of the machine. They're narrower than normal machines (about two thirds of the width) and the way they open means they can't be kept under a work surface – unless you want to pull them out each time you use them.

The spring-loaded inner doors tend to be awkward. The force of the spring makes them hard to open and the doors don't automatically line up with the outer door when the wash finishes, so you have to turn the drum to get the washing out.

When we last tested top-loading models, none were good enough to be Best Buys as they were noisy, awkward to use and vibrated too much.

Washer-dryers

You might consider a washer-dryer combo if you're short on space. But it's hard to find one that does a great job of both washing and drying. And it's worth knowing that the drying capacity is always smaller than the washing capacity. See our washer-dryer reviews.


Washer-dryer or washing machine and tumble dryer: find out which is most cost-effective combination


Our washing machines expert says

Choosing the right capacity washing machine is key. Too small and you'll pay extra to run more loads; too big and you might run inefficient half loads. With temperatures, 30C is fine for clothes that aren't very dirty. Heat pump tumble dryers are pricier to buy but cost less to run, so can be cheaper over their lifetime than condensers. Separate clothes by fabric type, as they take different lengths of time to dry. Empty the filter every time, as built-up fluff makes it need to work harder.

Rebecca JakemanWhich? washing machine expert

Our expert tests pinpoint the washing machines that are best at cleaning, most economical to run and have the least impact on the environment. Head to our washing machine reviews and look out for our Best Buy and Eco Buy labels.

How much does a good washing machine cost?

We've found that several of the best machines were in the £200 to £350 price bracket. But we've also found plenty in the same price range that are so bad at the basics we've made them Don't Buys, so it pays to do your research.

A machine with fancy features, such as the Miele AutoDose (which will measure out just the right amount of detergent for your wash from a large tank), will cost at least £800.


Our experts explain how you can potentially cut your laundry costs by £159 this year.


Where to buy a washing machine

Our Best Buy options include those for less than £500, and cheaper washing machines sometimes score better in our tests than machines that cost around twice the price.

When shopping, pay attention to the returns policy. If you're replacing an ageing machine, note that some retailers will recycle the old model for you.

Popular online retailers include:

  • Currys has washing machines from brands including AEG, Bosch and Hotpoint. If you're shopping for a freestanding model, prices go from less than £200 to well above £1,000 for high-end LG and Miele machines. You can add recycling to your order from £25.
  • Argos has freestanding and integrated machines. If you don't want to spend more than £500, you can pick from brands including Beko, Indesit and Samsung. Argos will disconnect and recycle your old integrated machine and install the new one for £140, or deal with a freestanding model for £50.
  • John Lewis has a selection of washing machines that you can filter by claimed washing load. The retailer mentions the Bosch WAN28281GB and Hotpoint NSWM 845C WW UK N among its bestselling machines, both retailing for less than £500. If you want a smart machine, note that John Lewis has several sub-£500 models that can be controlled from your smartphone.
  • AO has more than 300 washing machines. If you're shopping for a model capable of serving a busy home, you can filter by machines with a wash load of 10-11kg or even 12kg. The retailer's installations cost £25.

Find out which retailers are rated highly by Which? members with our guide on the best home and DIY shops.

How much does a washing machine cost to run?

Working out which is the best-value machine involves more than just looking at the initial cost. 

A washing machine can cost anything from under £24 a year to run to more than £88, under the energy price cap that will be in place from April 2024.

Running costs are largely influenced by drum size. And some of the most energy-efficient machines we’ve tested are terrible at cleaning.

The energy label ratings are meant to help you choose a more efficient model. They go from A to G on new models. But the energy rating is calculated mostly on the 60°C cottons program. Our energy ratings and costs are based on washes you actually use most often, which are the 40°C programs.

Use our running cost tool below to find the models that will cost the most and least over its lifespan. And use the search bar to find a specific model or brand.

For more information, see our guide on energy-efficient washing machines.

Find out how to cut your appliance running costs and which use the most energy in your home in our guide to how much your appliances cost to run.

Can you buy an eco washing machine?

Eco Buy Logo

A lot of a washing machine's environmental impact will come down to how often you use it. When replacing a faulty model, buying one that is efficient is a great way of reducing your environmental impact, as well as saving money along the way.

Unfortunately, our testing shows those that use the least energy and water often fail to clean well.

That's why we've started recommending Eco Buy machines. These are models we've carefully chosen because they clean well and are energy and water efficient. 

To find the most sustainable models, read our washing machine reviews and filter for Eco Buys.

Consider repairing your current washing machine before buying a new one

Repairman opening the filter on a washing machine

All may not be lost just because your washing machine isn't draining or turning on. Many common problems can be fixed by yourself or with the help of a professional.

Read our repair guides to see if you can keep your current machine for longer.

Any repairs that require dismantling or fiddling with the electrics should be carried out by a professional. Choose a Which? Trusted Trader to ensure you'll be dealing with a qualified repairer you can trust.

Repairing will not only save you money but will also save your machine from the scrapheap, reducing the environmental cost of recycling and producing a new one.


Common washing machine faults find out the fixes you can do yourself, the ones best left to professionals and when it's time for a new machine


How to dispose of a washing machine

Worker at tip accepting delivery of a used washing machine

When buying a new machine, you may also need to sort out what to do with your old one. Fortunately, there are plenty of options. Every item that has either a plug, a charger, batteries or carries a crossed-out wheelie bin logo can be recycled, and that includes washing machines. 

If yours is still in working condition and you want or need a new one, you can sell it second-hand (more on that below).

Many retailers, including AO, Currys and John Lewis, offer to remove your current machine when installing a new one, although you will have to pay extra for this, typically at least £20.

Another option (which may not cost anything) is council pick-up of large items. Many councils let you dispose of one large item a year for free, charging for any more in that year. Search your local council's website for large item collection.

If you've already disposed of a large item this year and want to avoid being charged for another item, you can take your machine to a local recycling centre yourself. Most of these will have an area especially for waste electronics. 

In some cases, you may need to get a permit before dropping off broken items, so check this on your local council's website before you travel anywhere. Find your nearest recycling location (including stores and council sites) using Recycle Now’s electrical recycling locator.

See all our sustainable living advice.

Buying and selling second-hand washing machines

When buying second-hand it's worth knowing the difference between key terms.

  • Used will mean it's been in someone's home and hasn't undergone any kind of refurbishment.
  • Ex-display or graded means that it comes from a store so will have been used minimally.
  • Refurbished means it's been used but has undergone a full check and repair where necessary in order to be as 'like new' as possible.

In general, we recommend buying a new model rather than second-hand as there is less risk of safety problems.

That's why when buying second-hand you need to ask whether a PAT test (Portable Appliance Test) has been carried out to ensure the appliance is safe for your home. Equally, if you are going to sell second-hand, make sure you get the washing machine PAT tested before selling.

Also check whether the seller offers a guarantee, particularly useful for third-party sellers and marketplaces, such as Amazon and eBay. This will give you more security in case the washing machine goes wrong quickly, or in case there's a safety concern.

Buyers should also check if a product has been recalled. You can use the Electrical Safety First website for this.

Washing machine drum sizes: 5kg to 12kg

Washing machine drum sizes range from 5kg to 12kg. The most popular drum sizes are 9kg and 10kg.

Drum size is based on the number of kilos of dry clothing you can fit into the drum. 

However, the number quoted usually only refers to the main cottons program. Other programs have smaller capacities – sometimes less than half of the drum size. 

You'll find details of the difference in capacities between the cottons and synthetics programs in the tech specs section in each of our reviews.

Most medium-sized households in the UK will find a 7kg capacity machine perfectly adequate. Swipe our graphic below to see what you can fit in each different drum size.

5 things to remember about drum size

  1. Bigger isn't always better. 
  2. Buy a machine with a drum that you won’t struggle to fill. 
  3. Washing machines work best when you fill the drum to each program’s set limit. 
  4. The bigger the capacity, the more the washing machine will cost to buy and run. 
  5. Prefer to wash little and often? Go for a smaller drum size. Like to do all your washing in one go? Go for a bigger drum size.

What is the standard size of a washing machine?

The standard dimensions of a front-loading washing machine are 85cm tall and 59.5cm to 60cm wide. They're designed to fit into a space 60cm wide.

But there can be exceptions, so check the specifications before choosing a model.

Washing machine measurements to check before you install

The depth of a washing machine can vary quite a bit, ranging from 40cm to 70cm. Don't forget to leave 7cm between the washing machine and the back wall for the pipes.

Make sure you don't end up with a machine that sticks out very far from underneath the work surface or takes up valuable space in a smaller kitchen.

Use our washing machine measurements table below as a guide, but always measure before you buy.

Washing machine depth measurements

Drum sizeAverage depthMinimum depthMaximum depth
7kg54cm40cm63.6cm
8kg57cm50cm64.3cm
9kg58cm52cm64.5cm
10kg58cm50.5cm66cm
11kg62cm60cm67cm
12kg64cm60cm70cm

Table notes: Source GFK washing machine data 2016-2018

3 things to note when measuring a washing machine

  1. Depth measurements might not include pipe and hoses, so be sure to check.
  2. Bulky door surrounds, buttons/controls that stick out and curved front casings are generally not included in dimension figures.
  3. Allow for around 7cm on top of the depth of your machine to make sure that you can safely accommodate your waste pipe and water inlet pipes.

If you're thinking of moving your washing machine, tumble dryer or washer-dryer into its own space, read out top tips on designing a utility room before you get started.

Washing machine spin speeds

The spin cycle removes water from your clothes at the end of the wash program.

  • Maximum spin speeds vary from 1,000rpm to 1,800rpm.
  • Washing machine spin speeds of 1,200rpm and 1,400rpm are the most common.
  • Faster spin speeds can add to the cost of the machine.
  • A faster spin speed can be noisier.
  • It’s not always worth paying more for a higher spin speed.

A machine with a good spin should remove most water from your laundry, reducing how long your clothes will need to spend tumbling in a dryer or hanging on a washing line.

Our tests have found you can’t always trust that a machine advertised with a high spin speed will actually be any better than a slower one.

We’ve found machines at a spin speed of 1,200rpm that do a better job of removing water from clothes than others at 1,600rpm.

And some fast machines don’t spin at their top speeds for as long as slower models.

The best washing machine brands

We survey thousands of washing machine owners every year to find out how satisfied they are with the brand they've bought and whether they'd recommend it. 

They should last beyond seven years without any problems, but we've found that for some brands as much as one third need to be repaired or replaced within that time.

There’s a big difference between how reliable the best and the worst brands are. The least reliable are six times more fault-prone than the most reliable.

Browse the top washing machine brands to see which models are your best bet for a long lifespan.