How to choose a reliable washing machine for your home: analysis of the main parameters and manufacturers

The range of modern washing powders in stores can take even an experienced housewife by surprise. You can choose one of them, relying on different methods, for example, give preference to the powder that your mother uses to wash your clothes, or buy the first product that catches your eye, charming with its bright packaging and rich aroma. We advise you to approach the purchase issue more consciously. Our rating of the best washing powders of 2021, based on data from a study conducted by Roskachestvo, will help with this. However, before doing this, we recommend that you learn about the substances that make up modern powders, their properties and their positive or negative impact on the safety and quality of washing.

Washing quality

Now let's look at the characteristics that directly affect the quality and efficiency of work.

Energy consumption, washing and spin class

All parameters are designated by letters from A to G. The closer the letter is to the beginning of the alphabet, the higher the class of the washing machine, which means it performs its duties better. Now let's talk about each indicator in more detail.

Modern devices generally have an energy consumption class of at least B. But there are also devices with improved performance. They are more expensive, but quickly pay for themselves due to low energy costs.

The washing class will tell you how well the unit washes things. At first glance, this is a very significant indicator, but in practice it turns out that all equipment has similar values, since even the most budget ones today correspond to the A marking.

After washing, the laundry must be wrung out. will tell you how dry it will be after the procedure .

It is important to pay attention not only to the maximum speed, but also to the lower speed at which delicate fabrics can be gently squeezed. If the indicator is high, then it is better to squeeze delicate materials by hand.

The lower the residual moisture level, the less time it takes for things to dry completely.

The machine reaches maximum speed at the end of the wash; for cheap models this period lasts about 30 seconds, and for expensive models it reaches several minutes. Hence the different results with seemingly identical indicators.

Washing functions

There is a certain pattern here: the more expensive the model, the more built-in programs it includes. At the same time, each manufacturer strives to emphasize the innovativeness of its development and give it a more interesting name.

In fact, it turns out that for the home only a few standard programs are enough, which are available even in inexpensive devices:

• cotton - for bed linen and towels;
• synthetics - suitable for mixed and colored fabrics;
• children's - effectively washes even stubborn stains at high temperatures and with a maximum number of rinses;
• gentle or manual – allows you to wash delicate fabrics;
• fast - accelerated cycle of no more than 30 minutes, refreshes clothes.

The latest generation models provide the option of creating your own mode if none of the proposed ones is suitable. The built-in computer will remember it, and later you can activate it with one click.

Additional functions

Let's name the most common and useful functions that modern devices have:

• Drying. Takes cleansing to a whole new level: you get not only clean, but also dry clothes. However, please note that the number of items to be dried is limited to half the weight of the maximum load. So, if your assistant holds 6 kg, then you can only dry 3 kg in it.
• Intelligent system. She herself will determine the weight and degree of contamination, the type of fabric, select the optimal mode, measure out the required amount of powder and wash with minimal resources.
• Leak protection. It can be partial - only a malfunction in the hoses is recognized, or complete - the condition of the tank and drum is also monitored.
• Steam treatment. Removes unpleasant odors, helps get rid of stubborn dirt and disinfects.

• Delay start. You can set the start at a convenient time and the machine will turn on at night or by the time you return home.
• Eco Bubble . The powder dissolves before washing, forming a soap solution. This significantly improves the quality of the result, and stains are washed off more efficiently.
• Easy ironing. Clothing wrinkles less, folds and creases do not form.
• Balancing. During operation, the laundry is evenly distributed in the drum to eliminate unnecessary vibration.
• Child protection. Locks the control panel with a certain combination of buttons and little pranksters will not be able to change the settings or turn off the device.
• Self-cleaning. Removes scale, dirt, detergent residues and mold from parts.

Watch another short story from the program “Test Purchase”.

Let's sum it up

Which washing machine is better to buy? You should not choose a washing machine based only on price. Expensive does not mean “good”, and vice versa. Look for your future car among the models of a trusted manufacturer that has a good service center in your city.

Which brand of washing machines is better?

The answer to the question which manufacturer of washing machines is better depends on the amount planned for the purchase of equipment. Miele is a confident leader in world ratings; these washing machines last a long time, but not everyone can afford its products . LG produces many interesting models . Not all LG innovations are equally successful, but, perhaps, LG and Bosch in the mid-price category are some of the best.

The Atlant company is distinguished by affordable prices for its products - as well as for services. And repairs of these machines are undertaken at almost any service center. Samsung has a similar situation - moderate repair costs, a good set of functions and washing quality. But the fact that Samsung washing machines are designed for the mass consumer, and their low price, affects the quality of the products of this brand. The metal is thin, the build quality is excellent in some batches and poor in others, etc. AEG and Electrolux washing machines are of high quality, and repairs are usually no problem, but their machines are more expensive. Bosch , Siemens have been at the top of the ratings for many years, they are distinguished by good quality and functionality, but repairing washing machines is very expensive; replacing one part can cost almost as much as the device itself.

Famous manufacturers and popular models

Check out these 10 washing machine models. The list is made by popularity.

1. Candy Smart CS4 1051DB1/2-07 for RUB 13,490.
2. Beko MVE 69512 ZAW for RUB 16,990.
3. Candy Smart CS4 1051D1/2-07 for RUB 12,490.
4. Bosch Serie 6 3D Washing WLT24440OE for RUB 27,990. (currently there is a promotion - a discount of 7,000 rubles).
5. Beko WRS 5512 BWW for RUB 15,490.
6. Beko WRS 5511 BWW for RUB 12,990.
7. Samsung WF8590NLM9 for RUB 21,990.
8. Candy Smart CS34 1051D1/2-07 for RUB 12,990.
9. Indesit BWSA 61051 for RUB 20,490.
10. Haier HW70-BP12969A for RUB 37,990.

• Electrolux EW6F4R28B

It has standard dimensions, holds 8 kg and has a spin force of 1,200 rpm. It is equipped with many additional systems: evenly distributes laundry, processes items with steam, adjusts the cycle length depending on your wishes, and it is possible to return forgotten clothes. It can clean itself, has protection against leaks and locks the control panel.

The device will cost 38,490 rubles.

• AEG AMS7000U

A narrow machine with a load capacity of 6 kg that runs very quietly. Thanks to the special surface, it can wash even the most delicate fabrics. The technician will also recommend the appropriate mode and amount of powder. Regulates the amount of electricity and water consumed depending on the laundry. By the way, the detergent compartment has a compartment for liquid powder. Conducts disinfection with steam.

Costs about 29,990 rubles.

Of course, each brand has both cheap and expensive options. For example, you can buy Beko devices for 14 thousand rubles, and for 20, and even for 38.

Harmful and safe substances in powder

Manufacturers of washing powders have made many new discoveries in recent years. One of them was the use of eco-formulas. The composition includes soap, baking soda and citric acid. They do not contain harmful anionic surfactants (A-surfactants) and phosphates, which you can learn about in more detail below.

Also safe substances in washing powders include:

1. Zeolites of natural origin. Zeolites help enhance the effect of surfactants and soften hard water. In nature they are found in the form of crystals, white, transparent, greenish in color. They can also be beige and light pink. Act as a replacement for more harmful phosphates for the human body in laundry detergent.
2. Polycarboxylate. Polycarboxylate acts as an anti-corrosion agent for machine elements, and is also characterized by the absence of leaving residue on clothes after washing.
3. Cationic surfactants. Cationic surfactants are the basis of the product. They are able to create an antibacterial barrier and remove the negative effects of anionic surfactants.

For the composition to be safe, anionic surfactants should not exceed more than 5%, although according to the current GOST their inclusion can reach 15%.

In addition to anionic surfactants, harmful components include:

1. Phosphates. With their help, it is possible to soften the water and increase the impact of the product. The safe content of the component should not go beyond 12%, but if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, you should avoid phosphates in powders altogether. But with their help, the washing machine will be protected from the destructive deposit of scale. They are also environmentally friendly.
2. Synthetic zeolites. This is a kind of substitute for the above component. Although they do not have a negative impact on the environment, they are not able to dissolve in water, which can clog the water supply and make clothes harsh after washing. Although these components can remove even old greasy stains.
3. Optical brighteners. They remain on the fabric after washing, i.e. in essence, they paint it over. For this reason, they can have a negative effect on human skin. If the composition contains such fluorescent substances, they can cause irritation, redness of the skin, and even cause itching and pimples. It can be used in powders for colored items, but under no circumstances in detergents for washing children's clothes.
4. Fragrances. They give the laundry a pleasant aroma, but can provoke an allergic reaction.
5. Color stabilizers. The dye is retained in the fabric so that it does not lose color. They are also needed to prevent laundry from fading onto other things when washed.
6. Enzyme supplements. They help speed up washing and remove various types of protein stains. But in addition to the beneficial effects, they can destroy tissue. Not recommended for the use of silk and wool, since these materials are protein in nature and can be destroyed upon contact with them.
7. Substances with cellulose. They create a shell that prevents dirt from sticking to the surface of the fabric again.

If you are interested in learning more about the substances in powder, we recommend watching the video of the television program “Our Potrebnadzor”:

Types of washing machines

Finding a reliable machine is quite difficult, given the wide selection of models. When buying a machine, you need to pay attention to the type of engine. Varieties of engines affect the operation of the machine.

If you decide to buy an inexpensive machine, it is important to choose the right type of engine, otherwise the machine may make unpleasant noise when washing.

Washing machines are available with both vertical and horizontal loading

Motors can be commutator or inverter. The second type of engine is more reliable and quiet. Washing machine drives are either direct or belt driven.

Engine types:

• Collector;
• Inverter.

Machines can be full-sized, narrow and compact. Which machine to choose needs to be decided before the repair work is completed. When purchasing, you need to know exactly what functions a washing machine should have to work productively.

Spin class

An important parameter for washing equipment is the spin class. It shows as a percentage how wet your items will be after washing. This indicator directly depends on the number of revolutions of the machine per minute. That is, the more often the drum rotates, the drier things will be.

The percentage of humidity can be easily calculated - it is the ratio of the weight of the laundry before and after the washing process. Depending on the spin class, washing machines are assigned ratings from “A” to “G”, each of them corresponds to a certain humidity and speed:

1. The best spin quality is marked with the letter “A”, with which the residual moisture content of the laundry will be less than 45%.
2. The “B” value indicates that after spinning the fabric will remain 45-54% damp.
   Do you wash by hand?

   Oh yes! No

3. “C” means that the technique will spin the laundry, leaving it at 54-63%.
4. A value of 63-72% guarantees class “D”.
5. “E” means that after washing the items will be 72-81% damp.
6. “F” corresponds to a result of 81-90%.
7. A machine with class “G” after washing will show the laundry humidity to be more than 90%.

In addition, the spin efficiency depends on the diameter of the drum and the time it takes to complete the full spin cycle. The longer the time and the larger the drum, the drier the laundry will be.

The dryness of the fabric is also affected by the permeability of the material. So, a chiffon blouse and jeans after washing together will have a different percentage of moisture.

Important! A higher spin class is not always good. Strong - will deform the fabric. Obviously, for regular washing of ordinary and delicate materials, class “D” is quite suitable. It is believed that machines with 1000 - 1200 drum revolutions per minute are suitable for any laundry.

Most modern washing machines have several spin modes programmed into them; this is also worth paying attention to when purchasing.

Proportion of dry fabric depending on class

Energy class

A good washing machine should be economical in energy consumption. The corresponding marking will show how energy-saving it will be:

• “A+” (newest generation) – electricity consumption – 0.17 kW/h.
• Class “A” shows that the machine will consume from 0.17 to 0.19 kW/h.
• In the case of “B”, electricity consumption will range from 0.19 to 0.23 kW/h.
• Class “C” consumption will be from 0.23 to 0.27 kW/h.

• A machine marked “D” will consume between 0.27 and 0.31 kWh.
• Equipment marked “E” will consume from 0.31 to 0.35 kW/h.
• Class “F” washing machine – from 0.35 to 0.39 kW/h.
• The most expensive will be “G” - from 0.39 kW/h.

Expert opinion

I work in the household appliance repair industry. Extensive experience in restoring washing machines and dishwashers.

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Important! The energy consumption class is indicated per kilogram of items. Therefore, in order to calculate the exact value of electricity consumed per wash, you need to multiply the indicated number by the weight of the laundry.

Competition in the car market today is great and manufacturers fight for buyers by constantly modernizing them. The usual classification of cars from seven ratings (“A” – “G”) has long included equipment with the “A+” sign. But the leaders in the production of washing machines do not stop there - in retail chains you can increasingly find models of a higher class.

Example of a tag on a car

Class A - the highest rating

An ideal wash is one that removes all dirt, even the most difficult stains. Often, models where the class is equal to value A cope with stain removal so efficiently and effectively.

There is an opinion that class A is significantly different from B. But the difference between them is extremely small. Therefore, if savings are at stake, take class B.

What is the difference between class A and B? Designation A is the highest rating in the table, since the model passed the test wash better. If the machine is marked B, then it copes a little worse with removing contaminants.

About the reference SMA

The reference machine was released in 1995. Nowadays, standards can only be obtained by authorized manufacturing plants. Their effectiveness is undeniable. But be careful: due to the rapid development of modern technologies, a regular machine can wash much better than a standard one. Remember that the benchmark shows a stable result, not the best. She simply recorded the lowest dispersion in indicators. That is, 10 out of 10 washes are approximately the same in quality, while in a non-reference model for 10 washes 1-2 will be of low efficiency, and the rest will have excellent performance.

Why do they give an "A" grade?

For any of the parameters (washing efficiency, spinning and energy consumption), a rating of “A” or “very good” is top notch. It is placed if the SMA performs the specified function at a high level:

1. Washing class “A” is assigned if the machine removes all stains and is as efficient as possible.
2. Spin class “A” is assigned depending on the residual moisture content of the laundry (in this case it should not exceed 45%).
3. In terms of energy efficiency, the most economical washing machine in terms of energy consumption receives an “A” rating.

Class A+++

Height of the washing machine

You need to choose the height of the washing machine at the stage of repair work. The standard height of a washing machine is 85 cm. Adjusting the legs can increase the height of the machine by several centimeters.

The use of additional rubber anti-vibration stands will certainly increase the overall height of the device.

Before buying an automatic washing machine, you should take measurements of the room and write down the necessary information on paper

The height of the front and vertical washing machine is the same. When choosing a machine, you need to pay attention to what functions it will perform. You also need to take into account that it will be impossible to install a machine with vertical loading.

Washing machine height:

• 60cm;
• 70cm;
• 85 cm.

A top-loading machine becomes taller when the lid is opened. Front-mounted machines are considered more convenient, but it is more important to choose a high-quality machine that meets the necessary parameters. Test purchase recommends Korean washing machines.

Leading manufacturers

We present brands of the most trusted and good manufacturers.

LG

• LG F-1096ND3
• LG Steam F2M5HS4W
• LG F-12B8WDS7
• LG FH-0G6SD0

Bosch

• Bosch WLL 24266
• Bosch WLG 20060
• Bosch WLG 20261 OE
• Bosch WLL 2426 S

Samsung

• Samsung WF8590NLW9
• Samsung WF8590NLW8
• Samsung WW65K42E08W
• Samsung WF60F1R2E2WD

Indesit

• Indesit IWUB 4085
• Indesit IWSB 5085
• Indesit IWSC 6105
• Indesit IWUB 4105

Candy

• Candy CS4 1051D1/2
• Candy GVS34 126TC2/2
• Candy Aqua 114D2
• Candy CS34 1052D1/2

Additional functions

For the convenience of users, additional options may be provided in the washing machine.

Models with drying

Drying of washed clothes is carried out using a fan that directs air flows from a heated heating element.

The drying intensity is selected depending on the type of laundry.

Smartphone control

For your information! The washing machine may have a built-in operating system that can be controlled using a mobile device.

To do this, you need to download a special mobile application to your smartphone. This will allow you to transmit commands at a distance without getting up from your chair or even without being at home.

In this case, you don’t have to waste time studying the instructions - tips in the application will allow you to accurately select the optimal mode.

Steam function

Steam treatment is necessary for effective disinfection of things .
Steam refreshes laundry, removes unpleasant odors and pathogens. This option is indispensable for allergy sufferers, as well as families with small children.

The steam smooths out wrinkles, so you don’t have to iron things at all, or at least do it without significant effort.

And if you adjust the steam temperature, you can treat even delicate fabrics.

Spot removal function

Some models have an option that allows you to easily remove stubborn dirt.

Attention! With the help of accelerated rotation of the drum, stains disappear from both thick and delicate fabrics.

To enhance the effect, you can use special stain removers.

Soaking program

This mode is used for heavily soiled laundry before the main wash . Things are soaked in a drum that remains motionless in water whose temperature does not exceed 30 0C.

Using the pre-soak option
extends the washing process by 15 to 30 minutes.

Biophase or enzyme phase

Enzymes are the active components of washing powder; under the influence of warm water they penetrate into the fibers of the fabric and dissolve organic particles of contaminants.

The optimal temperature for this is 40 0C.

In the bio-phase mode, the water is heated or cooled to this temperature for 10-15 minutes so that stains of natural origin have time to dissolve. This option can be added to any wash program.

Possibility of reloading laundry

For your information! With this option, you can add laundry to the drum directly during the washing process, including during rinsing and spinning.

In this case, you do not have to stop the cycle and drain the water. At first, manufacturers equipped only vertical models with this function, but now it is found even in front-loading machines.

With water tank

A washing machine equipped with a water tank can function even without running water.
Such a device is indispensable in the country, as well as in houses that are located outside the city and are not connected to the central water supply system.

Devices with tanks are designed to fill and drain water manually.

Bubble system

Under the drum of machines that support the air-bubble washing option, there is a bubble generator.

The water and powder that get there turn into fluffy foam . It is believed that it is when the bubbles come into contact with the fabric that stains are best washed away.

The foam rinses perfectly even in cold water and is suitable for delicate fabrics. In addition, the consumption of household chemicals is reduced and the service life of equipment is increased.

Quick wash

Many automatic machines have a quick wash mode.

It allows you to refresh items intended for everyday wear, while saving time and resources . Quick wash occurs at low temperature.

In such conditions, you can process things that are not heavily soiled. Clothes will get rid of unpleasant odor and become fresher.

The maximum effect can be achieved if the drum is fully loaded.

Because powder granules do not dissolve well in cold water and a small amount of laundry may not be rinsed.

This is a fairly intensive program and is not intended for thin, delicate fabrics that require special care.

The quick wash mode is not intended for cleaning towels and bed linen.

Remember! You should not wash worn-out wardrobe items in this way. Otherwise, they can quickly become unusable.

Delayed start

Only missing from the most budget or older models. Thanks to this function, you can schedule washing for the night or while you are away.

Depending on the model, the delay period ranges from 3 hours to a day.

Selecting an automatic machine based on the main functionality

When choosing a washing machine, it is important to consider the main points that affect the comfort of use.

Selecting an automatic machine

Drum and tank material

They are made of stainless steel or composite materials. Main parts made of stainless steel are more wear-resistant, although metal and plastic parts reduce vibration and noise during washing.

Washing and spin class

The best, as Test Purchase reports, are class A machines - high washing performance with low energy consumption. The class of models with the lowest operating efficiency is designated by the letter G. The standard spin rate for various washing machines is 1200 rpm. For narrow drums due to the size of the drum, this figure is 800-1000 revolutions for class A.