Freestanding Washing Machine
With finished panels all round, they fit beneath a worktop or stand by themselves, and they can come with you if you move.
Pick a drum size that fits your normal week, then look at spin speed, noise and the features you'll actually use. The guide below the products goes through each.
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What you'll find
- Everyday machines: the 8kg to 9kg, 1400rpm sweet spot that most homes choose.
- Large drums: 10kg and beyond, for large families and bulky washing.
- Smaller loads: 7kg drums for smaller households, or as a spare for little loads.
- Coloured finishes: darker shades such as graphite, anthracite and black join the usual white, for laundry spaces people can see.
Why choose freestanding?
A freestanding washer is a self-contained appliance in its own cabinet. No cabinet is needed around it; just a cold feed, a drain and a power point. That flexibility brings the biggest selection of drum sizes and features, and you won't need to alter your kitchen when the time comes to replace it. To hide the machine behind a cabinet door, see built-in washing machines; to wash and dry in one, see freestanding washer dryers.
Which drum size suits you?
| Drum | Suits | Worth checking |
|---|---|---|
| 7kg | One or two people washing small loads often. | If you wash duvets yourself, the largest size the manual permits. |
| 8kg | Couples and small families. | The spin speed and programmes you want. |
| 9kg | Families, plus a weekly bedding wash. | The depth, since bigger drums can mean deeper machines. |
| 10kg and over | Large households and bulky items. | Room in front to load and unload comfortably. |
Making the choice
Features worth paying for
Steam reduces creasing and freshens clothes between washes. On some machines, automatic dosing holds detergent and measures it for every load. Connected models pair with the maker's app for remote starts and end-of-cycle alerts. Quick and eco programmes are standard on most.
Spin speed
1400rpm is right for most homes. A 1600rpm spin leaves clothes a bit drier, worthwhile if most loads go in a tumble dryer.
Noise and vibration
Close to a living area, the spin noise rating is worth checking. Quieter running comes from inverter motors, careful load balancing and a firm floor.
Programmes you'll use
Programme lists run from about ten to more than twenty. More isn't automatically better: pick a machine with the handful you'll use, perhaps a short cycle, a gentle wool setting, a hygiene option and a bedding programme.
Going beyond 10kg
With a drum of 11kg or more you can wash the largest duvets and get through a family's week in fewer cycles. Smaller loads have extra room too, which helps reduce creasing. The product page gives the depth and door size.
Before you order
- Measure the gap. Compare the height with the underside of your worktop, leaving room behind for hoses and the plug.
- Supplies. Check the tap, the drain and a wall socket are all close enough for the hoses and cable, and don't use an extension lead.
- Level the machine. Adjust the feet until it sits flat and firm. A machine that rocks is noisy and wears faster.
- Take out the transit bolts. They stop the drum moving in the van; take them out before you switch on for the first time.
The brands we sell
Our freestanding washing machines come from . Series to look for include AEG ProSense, ProSteam and AbsoluteCare, plus ASKO's Classic, Logic and Style. If you might add a dryer later, staying with one brand makes a compatible stacking kit easier to find.
Buying a washing machine from KDH Electrical
Every washing machine is covered by the full UK manufacturer's guarantee. Spend more than £600 and delivery is free, normally within 3–7 working days. Living in our installation area? We can plumb in your new machine and recycle the old one, with prices for both shown in your basket.
Found the same machine cheaper at another UK retailer? Our price match means we'll do our best to match it. Call 01622 541312 for advice, or visit our showroom in Rochester, calling ahead to check what's on display.
Freestanding Washing Machine: your questions answered
Will it fit under my worktop?
Most freestanding machines are made for a standard kitchen worktop. Check your gap against the height listed for each model.
What does the kg number mean?
It's the maximum weight of dry washing the drum takes on a cotton programme. Other programmes take less.
Is 1600rpm worth it over 1400rpm?
It leaves clothes a little drier, so they dry faster. If you mostly hang washing outside, 1400rpm is plenty.
Is a garage or outbuilding OK?
Only somewhere that stays above freezing. Any water sitting in the pump or hoses could otherwise freeze and do damage. The manual lists the installation conditions.
Can I stack a tumble dryer on top?
Often, yes, using a kit designed for that particular pairing. Each manual lists compatible kits, which is simplest when both machines are from the same brand.
How do I keep it smelling fresh?
After washing, dry the rubber seal and leave the door open a crack. Every so often, clean out the drawer and filter, then run a drum-clean or hot cycle when the manual recommends it.
Can you take my old machine away?
Yes, within our installation area. Add recycling in your basket and we'll take the old machine when we deliver; the price is shown before you pay.