Choosing the right washing machine
Capacity is only one part of choosing a washing machine. The right machine also depends on your household, available space, spin speed, programmes, noise, energy use and the way you actually wash clothes.
A larger capacity is not automatically better if you rarely fill it, and the fastest spin is not automatically the best choice if noise and fabric care matter more to you.
How much capacity do you need?
| Capacity | Typical fit | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| 7kg | 1–2 people | Smaller regular loads |
| 8kg | 2–3 people | General household use |
| 9kg | 3–4 people | Family washing and larger loads |
| 10kg+ | Larger households | Frequent or bulky loads |
These are practical guidelines rather than strict rules. A household's laundry habits can make a smaller or larger machine the better choice.
Spin speed explained
Spin speed is measured in revolutions per minute (rpm). A higher maximum spin can remove more water before the clothes leave the machine, which can reduce drying time. However, the maximum number is not necessarily used on every programme.
1200–1400 rpm
A sensible range for everyday washing and many households.
1600 rpm
Useful when reducing moisture before tumble drying or air drying is particularly important.
Features that can genuinely matter
- Quick wash: useful for lightly soiled clothes when you need a shorter cycle.
- Steam: depending on the programme, steam can be used for clothing care, refreshing or reducing creasing.
- Wi-Fi/app control: useful if you genuinely want remote monitoring and programme control.
- Delay start: handy for fitting washing around your routine.
- Extra rinse: useful for households that prefer additional rinsing.
- Automatic load sensing: can adjust aspects of a wash according to the load on supported machines.
Energy ratings: be careful when comparing older machines
Older washing machines may carry the former A+++ to D energy labels, while newer UK/EU-style labels use the current A to G scale. Do not assume an old A++ label is directly equivalent to a current A rating. When comparing a refurbished machine, use the rating shown for that specific model and consider how you actually use it.
Check the practical details
Dimensions
Check height, width and depth, including whether the door needs extra clearance and whether hoses will fit behind the appliance.
Door opening
Make sure the door can open far enough for loading and unloading and that the hinge side works for your room.
Installation
Confirm whether the machine is freestanding or integrated and whether plumbing, installation or removal of the old machine is included.
Noise
If the machine is near a bedroom or living area, check the manufacturer's stated noise information where available.
What to look for when buying refurbished
Ask whether the machine has been tested for filling, heating, draining, spinning and door locking. A good listing should also identify the actual model, show photographs of the machine being sold and explain the warranty.
Frequently asked questions
Is a 9kg machine better than an 8kg machine?
Not automatically. If your normal loads fit comfortably in an 8kg machine, paying more for capacity you rarely use may not provide much benefit. Choose according to your actual laundry volume and the space available.
Does a higher spin speed save energy?
A higher spin can remove more water before drying, potentially reducing the work required from a tumble dryer. The overall saving depends on the programme, load and how you dry clothes.
Should I buy a Wi-Fi washing machine?
Only if the connected features are useful to you. Wi-Fi should be treated as a convenience feature rather than a reason by itself to choose one machine over another.
Find your next washing machine
See the current RenewBase washing machines, with individual photographs, specifications, condition and warranty information.
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