Washing machines are essential, inevitable major home appliances that many households in Singapore possess. Modern washers and dryers are responsible for the mundane work of cleaning and drying your clothes, towels, bedding items, and home fabrics like curtains. If you choose the right washing machine, you will not only save some time and effort in doing your laundry, but you may also save on your electricity bills with energy-efficient models.
But, which washing machine to buy?
While many modern washing machines are built with innovative functions, not everything is created equal. This is why it’s vital to set your own parameters when buying one to guarantee that you will get the best washing machine that fits your needs.
Here is a quick and complete buying guide to help you make a wise washing machine purchase.
What is the Best Washing Machine for Your Home?
Washing Machine Capacity
Knowing the right washing machine capacity that fits your laundry load will save you lots of time, water, and energy in the long run. The capacity of a washing machine determines the number of loads in kilogrammes that it can accommodate in a single wash.
This is our general washing machine capacity recommendation based on a weekly laundry schedule:
|
Washer and Dryer Size |
Household Size |
|
Compact (5-7 kg) |
Single user, a couple, or a family with 2-3 members |
|
Standard (7-8 kg) |
Family with 4 members |
|
Large (9 kg and up) |
Family with more than 4 members |
To get a detailed explanation of washing machine capacities, read our guide to washing machine sizes.
Front Load vs. Top Load Washing Machine
One of the biggest questions when buying a washer is whether to get a front-load or top-load model. Ultimately, top-load washing machines can be loaded mid-wash. You can also load and unload a top-load washing machine without having to bend, which is ideal for users with back problems. Front-load washers, on the other hand, are generally gentler on fabrics, which many washing machine shoppers prefer. Here’s our detailed guide to washing machine load types to help you make a decision.
Inverter vs. Non-Inverter Washing Machine
An inverter washing machine offers a variety of motor speeds that adjust according to your wash load. Like other home appliances such as air conditioners and refrigerators, an inverter washing machine or washer-dryer combo uses less electricity while maintaining the efficiency of the wash cycle.
Is this inverter technology worth investing in? An inverter washing machine can help you save on your electricity consumption. However, since you don’t use your washer as often as your refrigerator and air conditioner, the monetary benefits of an inverter washing machine are not as significant as those of other major appliances. On the other hand, you can enjoy other benefits like more efficient wash quality, durability, and quieter and more environmentally-friendly operation with an inverter washing machine.
Fully Automatic vs. Semi-Automatic Washing Machine
Based on their names, fully automatic washing machines can be operated fully without manual intervention. These washers are equipped with a fuzzy logic function that detects the amount of water required for the wash cycle. Fully automatic washers and dryers operate washing and drying functions in a single tub.
Semi-automatic washer and dryer combos use two tubs to wash and dry your laundry load. This requires you to manually put in the water and detergent. Furthermore, you will need to transfer the garments from the wash tub to the dryer when doing your laundry. This can be very time-consuming, especially for people with busier schedules and larger laundry loads.
If you prefer a more automotive and time-saving laundry solution, we highly recommend a fully automatic washer and dryer combination for ease of use.
Important Factors to Consider When Buying a Washing Machine
Energy-Efficiency
The energy and water efficiency of a washer and dryer are worth noting when buying a unit for your home. In Singapore, it’s vital to check the NEA and PUB tick ratings of a washing machine to get a general idea of its energy and water efficiency.
Washing Machine Capacity
Do you have a compact home with fewer laundry requirements? Is your family growing? Do you have little kids at home? How many rooms do you have? Your answers to these questions can help you determine your best washing machine capacity requirement. If your family is growing, it’s vital to invest in a washer with a larger capacity. The same is true for homes with bigger bed sizes and more bedding accessories.
Laundry Schedule
How often do you wash your clothes per week? If you wash your clothes more often, your laundry load will be smaller. If you have lots of big towels, bed sheets, and comforters to wash every week, you will need a bigger capacity unit. In case you like to add clothes mid-cycle, a top-loader washer is beneficial. If you require special care for your items, a front-load washer is a helpful choice.
Washing Machine Features
Various washing machine models come with various features and price ranges. Some common features that you’ll encounter when buying a unit are digital displays, water requirement detection, time delay, child lock, and various washing machine programmes like quick wash, delicate wash, cotton and synthetic wash, anti-crease wash, anti-allergy wash, and more washing and drying cycle types. Some washing machines have more specific speeds and smart features. These features will add more to the price of your washing machine. While it’s easy to get sold on the overwhelming number of washer and dryer features offered by different washing machine brands, it’s important to weigh the features that are truly beneficial. This will help you save more while enjoying the features that truly matter.
Takeaway
Buying a washing machine should not be as hard as doing your own laundry. To make sure that you get the best washer for your home, it’s vital to take note of your needs, space, and budget. In the end, a washing machine will stay in your home for years, so it’s important to choose the best washing machine with a value that is worth its price.
Ready to buy your washing machine? Browse through our online collection of washers and dryers from your trusted washing machine brands in Singapore.