For many who move frequently, live alone, or simply have very small homes, purchasing a full-size washing machine simply doesn't make sense. For this category of citizens, I would recommend paying attention to narrow units with a width of 50 cm. Such devices easily fit under the sink and are quite simple to install , and thanks to their portability, you can easily transport the machine to your destination.
Today, many manufacturers of household appliances are producing devices of this kind, and each has its own nuances, sets of programs and additional functions. So that you can understand the main ones, I suggest you familiarize yourself with the characteristics of models from such manufacturers as Electrolux, Eurosoba, Zanussi.
Features of narrow 50 cm washing machines
Washing machines with a width of 50 cm have very compact dimensions and therefore will significantly save free space in the apartment. The installation process does not take much time, and some of them can even connect directly to the water tap. Most machines have a front-loading type , so you can put small objects on the top cover of the machine and use the device as a bedside table.
It is worth noting that machines of this kind are slightly inferior to their older brothers in terms of spin, which, of course, is due to their size and lower engine power.
Advantages and disadvantages of compact washing machines
Compact size CMs have pros and cons. The advantages include:
- Possibility of installation in limited space, for example, in a toilet, closet or pantry;
- Consuming less water and energy.
This is where the benefits end. Unfortunately, this technique has more disadvantages:
- in compact machines you cannot wash more than 4 kg of laundry at a time, and you cannot put a down jacket or blanket in the drum;
- in order to place a compact housing under the sink, the washbasin and siphon must have a special design;
- the price of compact SMs is quite high - full-size units cost the same, but with better characteristics.
If there is no need to install the AFM under the washbasin, it is better to pay attention to models with vertical loading.
Criterias of choice
Like any other household appliance, narrow 50 cm washing machines also have their own characteristics, which you need to pay attention to first. This needs to be done so that you do not buy a pig in a poke, but exactly the desired device. So, let's look at the main criteria for choosing a narrow machine with a width of 50 cm.
Dimensions and capacity
The size of the unit is the first thing you should pay attention to, since this parameter determines not only how much space the machine will take up, but also the set of functions.
Modern devices are divided into the following types of sizes:
- compact - these are devices that are characterized by the following dimensions (HxDxW): 70x45x50 cm, their capacity is up to 3 kg of laundry . I note that such devices are quite portable and are well suited for those who move frequently, as well as single people;
- narrow - the most popular type of washing machine, since their capacity is from 4 to 6 kg of laundry, which is usually enough for an average family of 3-4 people. The dimensions of such units allow them to be installed in a small room or built into a set;
- full-sized - these devices have the largest size and set of functions, some of them even include a drying mode. This type of device is well suited for large families of 5 or more people . The disadvantage of the devices is their high energy consumption compared to other types.
Control and software set
Washing machines with a width of 50 cm are electronically controlled, but usually there is no display, so the indication is made using LED bulbs. The selection of programs and additional options is carried out by a rotary switch and mechanical buttons.
The software set consists of the following standard operating modes:
- cotton;
- synthetics;
- delicate wash;
- wool.
There are also some additional washing modes, for example, fast, economical.
You are also given the additional option of choosing water temperature and spin speed.
Efficiency and economy
Since such units have modest technical capabilities, their operating efficiency is not at the highest level. Washing class B - this means that things will be fairly clean, but the device may not be able to cope with very heavy soiling. The spin range ranges from D-B classes, that is, the laundry will be quite damp, although the water will not drain, but additional drying will definitely be required.
Additional features
The devices do not have a very large number of additional capabilities, which are limited to security features:
- Child lock – protects your nerves and device from little helpers. The system locks the door and control keys during operation;
- imbalance control – distribution of items in the drum before spinning for quieter and longer-lasting operation of the machine;
- partial protection against leaks is a safety feature that, in the event of water leaking through the body of the device, stops its supply.
Dimensions of small washing machines
Small washing machines are available among different types of washing machines - frontal and vertical, automatic and semi-automatic. Our review is dedicated to side-loading SMAs - the most popular type of washing machines in Russia.
A washing machine is called small-sized if each of the three dimensions - height, width and depth - is smaller than the standard. If at least one of the parameters is equal to (or greater than) the standard, the model does not belong to the small-sized category.
How SMA is distinguished by size:
- if the depth is less than required, and the width and/or height are standard, the machine is called narrow;
- if the height is below the standard, and the depth and/or width are standard, the model is classified as low SMA.
Standards for full-size washing machines are not strict; parameters may deviate by several centimeters. It is generally accepted that the dimensions of a normal SMA are as follows:
- height - 80–85 cm;
- width - 55–60 cm;
- depth - 55–60 cm.
Dimensions of small-sized front-loading washing machines:
- height - 67–70 cm;
- width - 47–52 cm;
- depth - 43–50 cm.
The average capacity in small washing machines is from 5 to 6 kg of laundry. This performance is usually enough for a family of 2-3 people.
Specifications
The table below provides a comparison of the main parameters of some narrow washing machines:
Characteristics | Models | ||
Electrolux EWC1350 | Eurosoba 600 | Zanussi FCS1020C | |
Load Type | frontal | frontal | frontal |
Maximum load of laundry, kg | 3 | 3 | 3 |
Installation | free-standing | free-standing | free-standing |
Dimensions (HxWxD), cm | 50x51x67 | 46x45x68 | 50x52x67 |
Control type | electronic | electronic | electronic |
Maximum spin speed rpm | 1300 | 600 | 1000 |
Spin speed selection | There is | There is | There is |
Energy class | A | IN | A |
Washing class | IN | IN | IN |
Spin class | IN | D | WITH |
Water consumption per wash, l | 39 | 50 | 39 |
Quick wash | There is | No | There is |
Spin cancel program | There is | There is | There is |
Display | No | No | No |
Wool washing program | There is | There is | There is |
Saving program | There is | No | There is |
Delayed start | There is | No | No |
Average price, USD | 388 | 464 | 431 |
I suggest you get to know each model separately.
Electrolux EWC1350
The next Swedish representative of compact cars is the Electrolux EWC1350. The model has a front loading type and a capacity of up to 3 kg. linen _ This volume will, of course, be very small even for a small family of 3 people, but for single people or a young couple it’s just right. Thanks to its compact dimensions: (WxDxH) 50x51x67 cm, the device is very easy to install and transport ; This property of the unit will be very relevant for those who often move or live in rented apartments.
The control in the Electrolux EWC1350 is electronic, the selection of programs and spin speed is made by rotary levers, and additional parameters are selected by mechanical buttons. Indication is made through lights on the front panel, since there is no display in this model . As for me, this moment is not very pleasant and brings some inconvenience in navigating the settings.
The software set is not very large and mainly includes only standard modes, among which you will find:
- washing delicate fabrics;
- cotton
- economical washing;
- quick wash.
I would include the following as additional ones: anti-crease program, super-rinse and quick wash, wool washing program . I would also like to note that the Cotton mode can operate in two options: at 60 degrees and full load and 40 degrees at half load.
The device has good performance indicators that correspond to the B class of washing and spinning . This rating is considered quite high and tells us that the machine fully copes with the task, and the output items are clean and sufficiently wrung out.
Energy consumption in the Electrolux EWC1350 corresponds to class A, that is, the device is quite economical in resource consumption. Safety features include protection against water leaks, child locking, imbalance control and foam level control.
Let's look at the main advantages of the Electrolux EWC1350:
- compact dimensions;
- good work result;
- good set of programs.
No particular deficiencies found
A short video review of this machine in the video below:
Five washing machines with a width of up to 50 cm
1st place - Eurosoba 1100 Sprint (45,000 rubles)
This is a free-standing front-loading washing machine, and it is designed to wash three kg of laundry in 1 cycle. This is not much, but such a small drum will reduce the width to 46 cm. Full dimensions: 46x46x68 cm.
Technically the machine is good:
- Energy class A+;
- Washing class A;
- Spin speed 1100 rpm;
- Various washing programs, including a wool program.
We put this model in first place because of positive reviews. In particular, buyers highlight its efficiency, quiet operation, relative reliability, and washing quality.
However, not all customer reviews are positive. There are also negative ones, where users note low reliability due to plastic parts. When purchasing, we strongly recommend that you inspect the machine for any weak plastic components.
2nd place - Eurosoba 600 (30,000 rubles)
The next narrow washing machine with a width of up to 50 cm is again from Eurosoba. It is worse than the previous one, which is easy to guess by looking at its price tag. Let's talk about the main thing right away: dimensions - 46x45x68 cm.
It differs from the previous washing machine primarily in the washing and energy consumption class - B, as well as the spin speed - 600 rpm. Otherwise, the parameters are similar, the capacity is the same - 3 kg of laundry.
It is worth noting that due to the small dimensions, other features suffer. During the spin cycle, it shakes violently and literally “leaves” from its place. However, according to users, this happens when the machine is lightly loaded, so we strongly recommend loading its drum completely with three kilograms of laundry and using special rubber pads under the legs.
As for the washing quality, it corresponds to class B, and the model itself is quite reliable. We can recommend it.
3rd place - Electrolux EWC 1350 (30,000 rubles)
A free-standing washing machine costs 30,000 and has a drum capacity of up to 3 kg. Its dimensions: 50x51x67 cm.
It will surprise us with its unique characteristics - everything here is standard for this price category. The machine has an energy consumption class of A and a washing class of B. It is equipped with intelligent controls (almost like everyone else), spins at a speed of 1300 rpm, and has protection against leaks and children. The functionality is normal and includes a wool washing program and others.
Of course, the washing machine has certain advantages: a good set of programs, washing quality and compactness. However, in reviews, buyers indicate poor assembly as the main drawback. Nevertheless, it lasts a long time and one can even call it relatively reliable. Oh yes, she takes a very long time to wash. Even with a short program, the process lasts for an hour.
4th place - Zanussi FCS 1020 C (30 thousand rubles)
A model from Zanussi is available on the market with approximately the same characteristics and at the same price. The only difference from the previous washer is the spin speed, which is lower here and amounts to 1000 rpm. For the rest, we will not repeat the same template characteristics.
They respond well. This is a small machine for a small apartment and for a family of two or three people. Despite its compactness, it washes and rinses things well, and does it relatively quietly.
The duration of the modes, the remaining water on the hatch cuffs are disadvantages. Considering very few customer reviews about this model, we placed it only in 4th place in the rating. But, judging by the available reviews, the washing machine is really not bad. Oh yes, dimensions: 50x52x67 cm.
5th place - Eurosoba 1000 (37,000 rubles)
It's hard to say why this washer is so expensive. It does not have any unique features or functions that would justify such a high price. Nevertheless, we put it in 5th place due to the lack of other washing machines that meet our criteria.
This machine has the following dimensions: 46x46x68 cm, its energy consumption class is B, washing class A, there is partial protection against leaks and spin speeds up to 1000 rpm.
The washing machine is small and convenient, fits easily under the sink and is quite reliable, which few buyers write about. The quality of washing is not always satisfactory, even if a good powder is used. Also, during the spin cycle, he jumps around a lot and tries to escape from the apartment. Whether you buy it or not is up to you. We could recommend it if there are no models higher in this rating.
Eurosoba 600
Eurosoba 600 is a free-standing, front-loading machine with a capacity of 3 kg . The model is a compact device and has the following dimensions (WxDxH): 46x45x68 cm. A device of this size and performance is only enough for a single person or a young couple.
The control in the device, although electronic, selects the necessary parameters only using rotary levers . You have the opportunity to select the program, water temperature and spin speed of the drum.
As for the software set, it consists of only 5 modes:
- white/colored laundry with soaking;
- white/colored linen;
- lightly soiled laundry;
- gentle wash with high water level;
- wool.
As you can see, the functional set is quite meager, but it will be sufficient for everyday washing. The operating efficiency is not at the highest level , and corresponds to the indicators of washing class B, and spinning class D. Considering its dimensions and productivity, the Eurosoba 600 turns out to be quite voracious in terms of energy resources - efficiency class B.
The security system consists of only partial protection against water leaks.
I would include the following advantages of the Eurosoba 600 washing machine:
- compact dimensions;
- high-quality assembly.
There are also disadvantages:
- loud noise during operation;
- great vibration, even jumping;
- unattractive design.
Video review of this machine model in the video below:
Advantages and disadvantages
If your home has spacious rooms, then there is no particular need to look for a compact washing machine. Moreover, almost all top models are standard. Manufacturers focus on the production of full-sized SMAs and bring them to perfection. Compact versions are most often chosen only out of necessity.
Pros:
- The ability to hide a small-sized automatic washing machine under the sink, countertop, cabinet in the bathroom, or in the kitchen unit. Full-size SMAs can also be placed in cabinets, but for installation under the sink, with their 85 cm, they are definitely not suitable.
- The compact dimensions of the devices do not in any way affect the quality of washing. The latter depends on the class of the car, the brand, technical solutions and implemented technologies.
- Small devices have functionality similar to full-size SMAs, but at the same time they consume less water and electricity.
Minuses:
- Parts wear out faster than in large devices - due to cramped placement.
- They vibrate more strongly - due to lighter weight and lack of counterweights.
- Limited download. In conventional devices, the drums can hold 7–8 kg at a time, or even more, in compact ones - no more than 5 kg.
- Expensive. There are few small-sized versions on the market, and the manufacturer is able to offer them at an inflated price.
When buying a compact SMA, pay attention to the following points:
- Load volume. It is better to take the option with a maximum load of 5 kg. This is enough for a small family, and you can also wash large items.
- Tank material. Experts advise buying cars with a tank made of stainless steel, not plastic. Such SMAs are much more expensive, but they also last longer. Among compact washing machines, Eurosoba has stainless steel tanks.
- Number of spin revolutions. In small devices, the drum rotation speed is lower than in full-sized versions. The maximum value for the category in question is 1100 rpm.
Zanussi FCS1020C
Now let's take a closer look at the Zanussi FCS1020C washing machine, which belongs to the world famous Italian brand Zanussi.
The device is a compact model with a front loading type and a laundry capacity of up to 3 kg . The device has the following dimensions (WxDxH): 50x52x67 cm; Thanks to these dimensions, the machine will easily fit under the sink. I would like to note that such performance and small size would be ideal for single people or a young couple who do not yet have children.
The unit has simple installation and is easy to transport, which will be very useful for those who often move. The device control is electronic and intuitive . Program selection is made by a mechanical switch, and the operating status is displayed on the front panel via LED lamps.
The software set does not stand out in any way and has only standard operating modes:
- cotton;
- synthetics;
- delicate wash;
- wool.
The efficiency of the Zanussi FCS1020C is rated as follows: class B is assigned to the wash cycle and class C to the spin cycle . The result of such work will be as follows: in most cases, the laundry will be clean, but quite damp and will need to be dried additionally.
Slightly better performance in energy efficiency – Class A.
Safety features include only partial protection against water leaks, imbalance control and foam level control.
The advantages of Zanussi FCS1020C are as follows:
- compact dimensions;
- simple controls;
- noise level is within normal limits.
There are also disadvantages:
- water remains in the door seal;
- not very high quality rinsing;
- meager set of programs.
Manufacturers of compact washing machines
Among the large number of manufacturers of household appliances, three well-known companies that produce compact front-loading AFM stand out. These are the Swedish concern Electrolux, its Italian subsidiary Zanussi and the Swiss company Eurosoba. The Swedes and Italians also produce good vertical models.
The Eurosoba (Soba) company does not spend a lot of money on advertising its brand - it is already well known in Europe. The range of buyers of its products is quite narrow, so the range of compact AFM models is also small. You can buy a 50 cm wide washing machine produced by this company only in Moscow or St. Petersburg. Swiss cars are distinguished by high quality and durability.
Eurosoba washing machines are perfect for installation under the washbasin
The Electrolux concern, one of the world's leading manufacturers of household appliances, is well known to many Russians. The company was founded more than 100 years ago. Today its products are sold in 150 countries around the world. Well-known brands Zanussi and AEG are also part of the concern. In the Russian Federation you can find on sale AFM manufactured in Italy, Poland, Ukraine and China.
Electrolux brand washing machine 50 cm wide, placed under the sink
Zanussi is a well-known Italian brand in Europe. In 1984, the company became part of the Electrolux group of companies, and in 1994 its products appeared in Russian stores. Zanussi ACMs are produced in Italy, Russia, Ukraine and Poland. From the product range you can choose a washing machine with a width of 50 cm.
conclusions
The machines we reviewed, in addition to being narrow, are also small in size, so from the review it is clear that their functionality and productivity are not great. I would recommend that you resort to this kind of purchase only in case of extreme necessity, for example, there is little space at home, at the dacha, or for people who move frequently.
The machine with the best spin
Electrolux EWC1350 has the best spin of all the models presented in the review. The number of revolutions is 1300 rpm, this is a very decent value for this type of device. In addition, the Electrolux EWC1350 has a delayed start function, as well as the lowest price .
Modern popular models
According to experts, the most popular models today are:
- Zanussi ZWS 6100 V, ZWQ 6121, ZWQ 75104, ZWY 51004 WA;
- Indesit ITW A 61052 W, ITW A 51052 W;
- Electrolux EWC 1350, EWT 1567 VDW, EWC 1150, EWT 1367 VDW.
Experts also note the popularity of Bosch WOT 20352, Whirlpool AWE 4519, Saturn ST-WK7616, Kaiser W 34212 TL units.
Small machines of these brands make it possible to wash a small amount of laundry with high quality. For example, models from Electrolux have spin class C (1100 rpm) with a maximum load of 3 kg. Of the compact models, only the Electrolux EWC 1350 spins laundry at a speed of 1300 rpm with dimensions of 50 x 51 x 67 cm.
Modern washing machines, up to half a meter wide, are reliable and practical. They are easy to use and often become the only possible solution if you need to install equipment in a limited area.