Washing Machines
Start by deciding where it will live and how much you wash each week, as that settles the type and drum size. After that, compare spin speed, noise and time-savers such as steam refresh and automatic detergent dosing. Our guide below the products explains each one.
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Freestanding or integrated?
- Freestanding washing machines: the biggest selection of drum sizes, colours and features. Fit one under the worktop or put it in a utility room.
- Integrated washing machines: designed to sit inside a kitchen unit behind a door that matches your cabinets, so it disappears from view.
Short of space for two machines? A washer dryer washes and dries in one appliance.
Features worth comparing
| Feature | Suits | Worth checking |
|---|---|---|
| Steam | Relaxing creases and refreshing once-worn clothes, so there's less to iron. | Whether steam is built into normal cycles or offered as a separate refresh programme. |
| Auto dosing | Getting the right amount of detergent every time and saving on waste. | The size of the detergent tank and which products it accepts. |
| App control | Setting a wash remotely and getting a phone alert when it ends. | That the brand's app works on your phone and the Wi-Fi signal reaches the utility room. |
| Larger drums (9kg+) | Families and anyone washing duvets or lots of towels. | The machine's depth, which grows with drum size. |
| 1600rpm spin | Homes where nearly every load goes in the dryer. | How loud it is on spin; every product page gives the decibel figure. |
Choosing the right machine
Match the drum to a normal week
Base the size on your everyday loads rather than the occasional bulky one. A couple will rarely fill more than an 8kg drum, while a busy family gets through the washing in fewer cycles with 9kg or 10kg.
How fast should it spin?
Faster spinning leaves clothes drier, so they spend less time on the airer or in the dryer. If you mostly hang washing outside, 1400rpm does the job; 1600rpm makes more sense if the tumble dryer gets daily use.
Programmes
A long programme list looks impressive, but most people use four or five: cottons, mixed loads, a quick wash and eco. Dedicated wool, sportswear, allergy or hygiene cycles are worth having only if they match what you actually wash.
Keeping the noise down
If the machine sits in an open-plan kitchen or living space, check its spin noise. A difference of a few decibels is easy to hear, and models with inverter motors are generally quieter and smoother.
Why eco cycles take longer
Energy ratings are based on the eco programme, which washes at a lower temperature and gives detergent more time to work. It runs for longer than a standard cycle, yet it's the cheapest way to clean an everyday load when you're not in a hurry.
Colours
White is still the most common, with graphite, grey and black widely available for a utility room on show. An integrated machine sits behind a kitchen door, so its colour won't matter.
Before you order
- Water supply and drainage. You'll need a cold-water valve and a standpipe or sink trap within reach of the hoses.
- Electrics. Use a wall socket rather than an extension lead.
- Clearance. Leave space behind for the hoses and in front to open the door and load the drum.
- Transit bolts. These stop the drum moving in transit and must be removed before the first wash.
- Integrated models. Measure the unit opening and make sure your cabinet door will accept the hinges and fixings the machine uses.
The brands we sell
Our washing machines come from . Many of these makers also offer tumble dryers designed to pair with them; open a brand's page to see both.
Buying a washing machine from KDH Electrical
Every machine has the full UK manufacturer's guarantee. Delivery is free on orders over £600, normally within 3–7 working days. In our installation area we can install and plumb in a freestanding machine and take the old one away. An integrated machine is fitted by your kitchen fitter along with its furniture door, though we can still recycle the machine it replaces. Each service shows in your basket with its price.
Seen it for less at another UK retailer? Our price match means we'll do our best to match it. For help choosing, call 01622 541312, or visit our showroom in Rochester, ringing ahead to check what's on display.
Washing Machines: your questions answered
Which spin speed should I choose?
For most homes 1400rpm is enough. Go for 1600rpm if you tumble dry nearly every load, as the clothes come out drier and need less drying time.
How does automatic dosing work?
You fill a tank in the machine with detergent, and it measures out the right amount for each wash. You never have to dose by hand, and less detergent goes to waste.
Is a steam washing machine worth it?
Steam loosens creases and freshens lightly worn clothes, which can cut down on ironing. It's most useful for shirts, blouses and anything you'd otherwise wash after a single wear.
Will a freestanding machine fit under my worktop?
Almost always. Most are built to slide under a standard worktop, but measure the height of the gap and compare it with the product page first.
Can you plumb in my new washing machine?
If it's freestanding, yes. Choose installation at checkout and, within our installation area, we'll hook it up to the plumbing you already have. Integrated machines go in with your kitchen fitter, who hangs the cabinet door. Either way, we can take your old machine for recycling.
Why does the eco wash take so long?
It uses cooler water and a longer soak to clean, which saves energy. The cycle lasts longer than a hotter, quicker wash but costs less to run.