Choosing a washing machine that's right for you can be quite the task! That's why advanced planning is in order.

Determine the type of washing machine you need based on the space you have and ask yourself what you need the machine to do for you.  How much washing are you likely to get through and how often? Do you have a large family requiring daily clothes laundering, or are you single or a couple? 


Here are some Quiet suggestions to help you choose the washing machine that's best for you.

Types of Washing Machines

Regardless of whether you're a first time washing machine buyer or simply replacing an older model, buying a washing machine requires a lot of research. 

The first part is pretty simple, the space you have will determine the type of washing machine you'll need. So let's take a look at the three main types for you to choose from: 
Freestanding washing machines

This is the most popular type of washing machine in the UK and is, according to Quiet Mark retail partner, Appliance City, a "household essential". Freestanding washing machines such as the Quiet Mark certified Haier HW80-B14979S I-Pro Series 7 (pictured left) can be moved anywhere there’s a power supply, water inlet and drainage.
Integrated washing machines

Also known as a built-in washing machine, integrated models such as the Quiet Mark certified NEFF W544BX2GB (pictured left) are designed to slot away into cupboards or under-counter spaces. Make sure you get the measurements right before making your purchase!
Washer dryers

If you want to save on space, it might be worth investing in a washer dryer such as the Quiet Mark certified Siemens WD4HU541GB iQ700 (pictured left)which combines both a washing machine and a tumble dryer in one. But remember, wash capacity in a washer dryer is usually larger than the drying capacity.  
Determine What You Need
Knowing what you need the machine to do has to be top priority when choosing a model that's best for you. But, as Quiet Mark retail partner Currys quite rightfully points out, "with a ton of different features, types and cycles, buying a washing machine can put you in... well, a bit of a spin". 

Here are our top three things to look out for when buying a washing machine:
 
Wash Capacity
The drum size of a washing machine can be the deciding factor when it comes to purchasing a washing machine. The most common drum sizes are between 7kg and 8kg, but what you need will depend on what you're washing and how often you're washing it.

Large families for example, generate the laundry of a small army, so they may wish to consider a washing machine with a larger drum size, such as the Quiet Mark certified 
LG V7 F4V712STSE TurboWash™ Washing Machine, which boasts a huge 12kg drum in a standard sized body. Wheareas couples or people living on their own might go for something smaller, such as the Quiet Mark certified Bosch WIW28502GB Series 8 Integrated Washing Machine with an 8kg drum.

Take a look at Currys handy video guide on Drum Capacity to learn more.

 
Quiet Performance

You'll be glad to know that all Quiet Mark certified washing machines are, just as their certification implies, well, quiet! The purple Q logo is your reassurance that the appliances have undergone rigorous third party testing to ensure they are one of the quietest in their category currently available on the market.

Appliance City offers a Quiet Mark search function on their website, which lets you browse through a range of certified appliances

The Bosch WIW28302GB Series 6 8kg Integrated Washing Machine for example, can be found on the retailer's website and lets you enjoy very quiet operation and excellent durability.


 
Energy Rating
According to Energy Saving Trust, "an estimated 40% of the UK's greenhouse gas emissions come from households".  It is therefore important that we pay attention to our appliances, how often we use them and how environmentally friendly they are. 

The Quiet Mark certified Miele WWR 860 WPS PWash 2.0 & TDos XL & WiFi Washing Machine for example, has the best energy efficiency class (A+++) with optimum wash results and short cycles. 
Other Things To Consider

There are so many other features to choose from, so you still have plenty to think about.  Do you want a smart washing machine that you can control remotely? Or a washing machine with handy liquid detergent reservoir that you simply fill up so the machine only uses what is needed?

Spin speed is also an important feature to consider when purchasing a washing machine.  After all, the faster the spin, the less drying time your clothes will need.

Thankfully, Appliance City have created a helpful Washing Machine Spin Speed Guide that can help you learn a bit more.

You can view a vast selection of Quiet Mark certified washing machines, washer dryers, tumble dryers and stylers on QuietMark.com.



Once you have purchased a washing machine, the most important thing to do is to look after it.  Currys offer a library of video guides that can help you do just that! Take a look at their video titled "How to take care of your washing machine" for more information.