How To Choose
A Good Washing Machine

While this capacity guide is easy to follow, you may find yourself wondering, "What if I have a small family of two, but we typically have heavy-duty loads for each cycle?" Let's explore our solution in the upcoming section.

How to choose washing machine capacity by average laundry load

Another effective way in determining the appropriate washing capacity of the washer for your home is to weigh the average load of clothes you usually wash in each cycle. This might sound obscure to some, yet it’s practical in helping you select a washing machine with a suitable load capacity.

Traditionally, it is recommended to opt for the minimum washing capacity for your needs. However, as most of latest washing machines come with intelligent sensor technology that adjusts water levels, you can confidently opt for a higher capacity without having to sacrifice efficiency.

2. Washing machine load capacity

Now that you know how to choose the right washer based on washing capacity, it’s time to talk about load capacity or load size chart. Load capacity is basically about how many pieces of clothes you can put in your washing machine in each cycle.

Here is a brief guideline on washing machine capacity and the corresponding number of clothes it can load for your reference:

Washing Machine Capacity	How many clothes
6-7kg washing machines	20 clothes
7-8kg washing machines	30-35 clothes
8-9kg washing machines	40 clothes
10+ kg washing machines	50 clothes

To give you a more itemized idea, here is a breakdown of what various load sizes might look like:

Load capacity	How it might look like
20 clothes	2 shirts, 2 trousers, 2 bath towels, 2 hand towels, 2 pillow covers, 1 large bedsheet
30-35 clothes	2 shirts, 2 pairs of denims, 2 pairs of children’s jeans, 2 bath towels, 2 pillow covers, 2 bedsheets
40 clothes	3 shirts, 3 pairs of adult denims, 3 small towels, 3 pillow covers, 3 bath towels, 2 bedsheets
50 clothes	4 shirt, 4 pairs of adult denims, 4 small towels, 4 bath towels, 4 pillow covers, 3 bedsheets

3. Washing machine sizes

Besides washing capacity and load capacity, you must also consider the washing machine size or dimension. The washing machine you choose must accurately fit within the allocated space.

To select the ideal washing machine for your home, be sure to follow these steps:

• Measure the space where you intend to place the washer.
• Take note of the dimensions.
• Choose a washer that fits within that space.

Here is a washing machine size chart showing common dimension ranges of a normal washing machine:

Washing machine type	Width	Height	Depth
Top load washing machine	540 to 600 mm	850 to 960 mm	540 to 606 mm
Front load washing machine	565 to 600 mm	840 to 850 mm	400 to 615 mm
Small washing machine	385 to 430 mm	575 to 840 mm	366 to 465 mm

Important notes:

• Remember to leave a gap of approximately 25 mm on both sides of the washing machine. This extra space facilitates proper ventilation and minimizes overheating and vibration.
• Allocate an additional 150 mm of space behind the washer for hoses and venting purposes.
• Allow for at least 500 mm of extra depth for front-loading washers or height for top-loading washers to ensure there is enough space when the lid is open.

4. Types of washing machines

In the previous section, we mentioned the common size ranges of washing machines. However, it is also important to consider the different types of washing machines and determine which type best suits your needs. Here is a guide to help you understand the various available options.

Washing machines are typically categorized into two types based on the number of functions and the level of manual work involved:

Semi-Automatic or Twin Tub Washing Machine

Semi-automatic washing machines, also known as twin tub washers in Indonesia and some markets, typically consist of two tubs—one for washing and another for drying.

This configuration requires a significant manual labour, as you need to place your clothes in the washing tub first and then manually transfer the washed laundry to the drying tub.

Fully Automatic or Single Tub Washing Machine

In contrast, fully automatic or single tub washing machines automate the entire washing process, requiring minimal human intervention. As the name implies, this type of washing machine features a single tub for both washing and drying.

Depending on where clothes are loaded, fully automatic washing machines are divided into two types as follow:

• Top load washing machine: Washing tub sits vertically in the machine and laundry is loaded from the top.
• Front loading washing machine: The drum sits vertically in the machine and laundry is loaded from the front.

Compared to top loaders, front loaders are equipped with more advanced features such as a function to pre-soak and distribute laundry items evenly, a sensor technology to automatically adjust water levels based on actual washing load, and an advanced child lock.

Below are two comparison articles you might want to read for more details:

• 6 differences between single tub and twin tub washing machines
• 10 differences between front load and top load washing machines

5. Set your budget

Many people believe that choosing a basic top-load washing machine is a suitable option for those constrained by budgetary considerations. This perception holds some truth, given that top loaders often come with affordable price tags and sufficient features to fulfil their purpose.

In contrast, front loaders generally have higher upfront costs. However, the initial investment in a front load washing machine can quickly be offset by long-term savings due to their superior energy and water efficiency.

Explore our collection of Electrolux automatic washing machines, which are available at affordable prices and incorporate the latest washing technologies to ensure high energy efficiency:

>>> Related post: 10 easy tips on how to take good care of clothes

8. Energy efficiency index (EEI)

It's important to select a washing machine that consumes less power and water as this will result in long-term cost savings.

Since 2010, a new EU energy rating system has been introduced which utilises the energy efficiency index (EEI) to classify washing machines. The ratings range from A-30% (or A+++) to D, with A-30% representing the highest efficiency and D being the least efficient. It is advisable to purchase a washing machine with an EEI of at least A-10% (or A+) to ensure optimal energy efficiency.

Good news: All Electrolux washing machines are energy efficient, boasting ratings of A-30% and higher. For example, some Electrolux energy efficient washing machines are even rated at an impressive A-50% in terms of energy efficiency.

9. Pick your top 3 favourite brands

Consider well established home appliance brands known for their high-quality products, those that align with your sustainability values, like Electrolux Indonesia. Visit their websites and physical stores to deepen your understanding. Afterwards, lock in on your top three favourites, and carefully compare each one according to your own criteria.

Most forget the importance of having an easily accessible customer service centre or hotline. Always make this a non-negotiable. It adds to your peace of mind when you can easily run to someone for repairs and warranties.

The choice of the best washing machine to buy should depend on your laundry habits, budget, and personal needs. However, when you opt for an Electrolux washing machine, you can be confident that you are investing in an automatic laundry machine that will reliably serve your family for years to come.

10. Washing machine features to look for

The latest washing machine technologies are designed to provide optimal cleaning performance and make your life easier. If your top priorities are maximum convenience and achieving the best possible clean, here are some key features to look for when buying a washing machine:

Pre-soak feature

This function pre-soaks and distributes clothing items evenly. Rest assured that every fibre is reached and every item feels soft and smells fresh for longer.

Delicate care program

This is a specialised program to protect your treasured garments, using a reverse cradle action, for a reduced wrinkle wash.

Automatic mixing of detergent and softener

This function is designed to protect every fibre by optimally blending water, detergent and softener before entering the drum, conserving the life of your clothes.

Automatically-tailored washing programme

This feature automatically optimises the programme for the actual laundry load to save resources and avoid over washing. Smart sensors save the time, water and energy used, while ensuring even small loads are washed with precision.

Vapour spray to soften fabrics

This technology adds a gentle spray of vapour to soften fabrics at the end of each cycle. Water vapour combined with a high-performance wash programme helps to remove bacteria from garments gently yet effectively.

Self-cleaning feature

Self-clean function helps to maintain the performance of your washing machine if run on a regular basis.

For deep cleaning, you might want to consider professional support from the brand of your washer. Electrolux Indonesia offers authorized in-home cleaning and maintenance services for washing machines. In addition to a thorough deep cleaning, you will also receive useful advice on how to set a cleaning cycle on the washer for future self-maintenance.