Washing machine and tumble dryer buying guide
In a spin? Our laundry guide is here to help you make the best choice.
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Washing machine guide
Before you buy
There are 3 important questions to consider before you buy a new washing machine:
Will it fit? – There's nothing worse than your new machine arriving and you don't have enough space. It's important to measure up beforehand to make sure your new washing machine isn't too wide for the intended space, too tall to go under a counter or has too much depth and sticks out at the front. If a machine is too wide it won't fit where you want it to go. If it's too tall, it won't fit under the counter and if it has too much depth then the front will stick out.
What connections do I need? – Washing machines need to be connected to a cold water supply, waste pipe and mains plug. Make sure that all of these are in reach or you won't be able to install your machine.
Freestanding or integrated? - While freestanding washing machines pack more features, integrated washing machines are ideal space-savvy options as they are slightly thinner and shallower. Perfect to pop under a kitchen counter, these are great for smaller families or lighter laundry loads.
Washing machine features
3 things to look out for
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Spin speed – Spin speed is measured in RPM (rotations per minute) and is literally the speed which the drum can spin. A machine with a higher RPM spins faster and leaves drier clothes after the wash. Some washers offer a variable spin speed feature that lets you choose the spin speed.
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Variable temperature - This feature lets you change the temperature of your wash. Lower temperatures can reduce running costs and preserve the colour of your clothing, while higher temperatures give a more intensive clean.
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Max washing time - This number, featured on our product pages, is the maximum amount of time that a wash is likely to take with that machine.
Tumble dryer guide
Before you buy
The most important thing to consider before you buy a tumble dryer is where do you want to place it. Once you know where it goes, you can choose from the 3 different types of dryers to find the best fit.
Heat pump tumble dryer
A heat pump tumble dryer uses low temperatures and recirculated hot air to dry your laundry. Not only is this more eco-friendly, but will also cost you less to run.
Why choose a heat pump tumble dryer?
- Provides better protection for your laundry.
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No external pipes or hoses.
Condenser tumble dryer
A condenser tumble dryer doesn't require an external vented hose. A condenser collects moisture from your clothes and stores it in a container, which requires emptying when full.
Why choose a condenser tumble dryer?
- Can be installed anywhere in your home.
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Great mid-way energy-efficient option between heat pump and vented dryers.
Vented tumble dryer
Vented tumble dryers remove moisture from your clothes through a hose, which needs to be placed through an open window or professionally installed vent.
Why choose a vented tumble dryer?
- Usually less expensive upfront but least energy-efficient type.
- No water container to empty.
- Dries clothes quickly.
Tumble dryer features
Manual tumble dryers
These use a programmable timer. Any pre-sets are based on an estimate, it may take less or more time to dry your clothes. They are usually less expensive than an automatic sensor dryer.
Sensor tumble dryers
These detect when your laundry is dry and stop the dryer. There's no need to set a timer. The dryer doesn't run longer than it needs to and your clothes should be properly dried when you open the dryer.
Smart tumble dryers
Smart tumble dryers can be controlled by an app on your phone. You can program the timer to have your clothes ready at a certain time, and get alerts when your fabrics are dry.
Freestanding or integrated tumble dryers
An integrated tumble dryer fits seamlessly under a kitchen counter while a freestanding one usually sits in the open. A freestanding dryer offers more flexibility and features but the biggest difference between both is the drum size. Integrated dryers are often more compact and shallow in depth.
Washer dryers
What is a washer dryer?
A washer dryer is a good choice if you don’t have space for a separate washing machine and tumble dryer. These machines have both washing and drying functions.
The upside is that you only need one machine rather than two, while the downside can be that the drying takes a lot longer than with a standalone tumble dryer.
Keep it energy efficient
Energy efficient ratings
Energy ratings for tumble dryers range from A+++ to C and for washing machines from A to E. The higher the energy rating, the more electricity you’ll save per cycle and the cheaper your utility bills will be.
Energy saving tips
Want to do your bit to save the earth and some extra money? Opt for right-sized machines - smaller machines often mean quicker cycles and less water. However, if you're needing to cram the machine, the clothes might not clean properly. Also, you might end up with multiple washes or pricey repairs costing you more overall.
Wash capacity - how many people are you washing for?
Individuals or couples
- Up to 6kg washing machine.
- Up to 7kg tumble dryer.
- 2 pairs of jeans, a jumper and 10 pairs of socks or underwear.
Small family
- 7-8kg washing machine.
- 8-9kg tumble dryer.
- 4 to 5 pairs of jeans, a jumper and 21 pairs of socks or underwear.
Large family
- 9kg and higher washing machine.
- 10kg and higher tumble dryer.
- 5 pairs of jeans, 2 jumpers and 30 pairs of socks or underwear.
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Our delivery and installation service
Thinking of opting for our paid installation service? To ensure your delivery and installation goes smoothly, we've put together a short video to walk you through the process, step by step. It's really important that these steps are met otherwise we may not be able to deliver your new washing machine or tumble dryer to your home.
Washing machine and tumble dryer delivery and installation
Before you order
- Check your measurements – where your appliance will fit as well as access to your room of choice, including gates, doorways and stairways.
Preparing for your delivery
- Fill out our installation survey and let us know of any access issues.
- Before we arrive, you’ll need to check that your cold-water feed and waste pipe are in good condition (washing machine installation only), and that an electrical socket is nearby and accessible.
- If we’re unable to connect your appliance due to one of the above checks not taking place, we won’t be able to refund your delivery and connection charge (this does not affect your statutory rights).
- We’ll text you the day before your delivery with a 2-hour time slot.
On the day of delivery
- Make sure someone is home as we can’t leave these items in a safe place.
- Ensure there’s space for our delivery lorry.
- For our driver’s safety, please clear their delivery route from lorry to location.
- If you’ve opted for our appliance recycling service please disconnect your old appliance before the delivery arrives.
- It’ll take around 25 minutes for delivery and installation.
Find out more about our installation and recycling service
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