The tank is an important component of every washing machine, and it is subject to the most stress when using the device. Its fixation, installation of moving elements in the form of springs and shock absorbers, as well as heavy counterweights - all this allows the tank to move inside along its axis, while being fixed in the structure, and not vibrating.
If the tank is faulty, then there is a serious danger to the future operation of the washing machine, namely all parts and components. For this reason, the issue of material for the tank is quite serious. In this regard, people often have a question: is a plastic tank in a washing machine good or bad? Let's look at all the features, and also consider the best washing machines with a plastic tank.
Plastic tank in a washing machine - good or bad?
TOP 8 best washing machines with a plastic tank
| Photo | Name | Rating | Price | |
| #1 | Hotpoint-Ariston VMUF 501 B | ⭐ 4.9 / 5 1 - voice | Find out the price | |
| #2 | Gorenje WP60S2/IRV | ⭐ 4.9 / 5 1 - voice | Find out the price | |
| #3 | Samsung WF8590NLW9 | ⭐ 4.85 / 5 1 - voice | Find out the price | |
| #4 | Indesit IWSC 6105 | ⭐ 4.75 / 5 1 - voice | Find out the price | |
| #5 | Indesit IWUB 4085 | ⭐ 4.75 / 5 | Find out the price | |
| #6 | INDESIT BTW A5851 (RF) | ⭐ 4.65 / 5 3 - votes | Find out the price | |
| #7 | Indesit IWUB 4105 | ⭐ 4.65 / 5 1 - voice | Find out the price | |
| #8 | Beko WRS 44P1 BWW | ⭐ 4.6 / 5 | Find out the price |
Which washing machine did you choose?
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No. 8. Beko WRS 44P1 BWW
Beko WRS 44P1 BWW
Our rating opens with a washing machine model from Beko – WRS 44P1 BWW. Let's highlight a few points at once.
- A-class washing, which is considered the best according to European standards.
- Electronic control.
- Intelligent linen distribution system.
The design allows the machine to operate silently. And the “Child Lock” function will allow you to avoid unexpected changes and opening the hatch due to a child’s curiosity.
Technical specifications:
- loading type – front;
- control – electronic;
- tank capacity – 4 kg;
- tank material – plastic;
- cleaning class – A;
- spin class – D.
Do you need the simplest and cheapest option? Then the Beko WRS 44P1 BWW model should suit you.
pros
- Reasonable price.
- High spin and wash class for a budget machine.
- Quiet operation.
Minuses
- Poor build quality.
- No display.
Reviews and prices for the Beko WRS 44P1 BWW washing machine
No. 7. Indesit IWUB 4105
Indesit IWUB 4105
In seventh place is a model from the company Indesit, which originates from Italy. Strict white design, fairly high capacity for an inexpensive model, the presence of 12 washing programs, divided into three large groups - standard, sport and special.
It should be noted that when washing items made of wool or silk, you need to load items with half the weight into the drum. In addition, this washing machine has modes that are responsible for cleaning sportswear and shoes from dirt. As a rule, one of the stages of their cleaning is soaking in water at a low temperature - this will prevent deformation and stalling.
What’s frustrating is the lack of a washing option for children’s clothes, which is in demand among families with one or more children.
Let's move on to the technical parameters:
- loading type – front;
- control – electronic;
- tank capacity – 4 kg;
- tank material – plastic;
- cleaning class – A;
- spin class – C.
Are you looking for the simplest option? Then Indesit IWUB 4105 is for you.
pros
- Relatively large tank capacity.
- High quality build.
- High class of cleaning.
- Reasonable price.
Minuses
- There is no washing mode for children's clothes.
Indesit IWUB 4105
No. 6. INDESIT BTW A5851 (RF)
INDESIT BTW A5851 (RF)
In sixth place is another model from INDESIT - BTW A5851 (RF). It is characterized by several notable points.
- Due to the design features, only vertical loading became possible.
- The presence of as many as twelve programs for cleaning things. Among them are cotton, wool, synthetics, colored fabrics and others.
- Rotary switch. With electronic control, there is a mechanical switch that is responsible for changing washing modes.
- Delayed start function. With it, cleaning of things will begin when you need it, and not when it is convenient for the machine. The maximum delay is 12 hours.
In addition, this model has the ability to change the spin speed to obtain slightly drier clothes at the end of the wash.
The presence of protective technologies will allow the owner of a washing machine to prevent possible causes of failure of the device, even temporarily. It's nice that there is a child lock feature.
Let's consider the technical parameters:
- loading type – vertical;
- control – electronic;
- tank capacity – 5 kg;
- tank material – plastic;
- cleaning class – A;
- spin class – D.
There is very little space, but you desperately need a washing machine? Then pay attention to INDESIT BTW A5851 (RF).
pros
- Small-sized.
- High tank capacity.
- Delayed start available (up to 12 hours).
Minuses
- Weak spin.
INDESIT BTW A5851 (RF)
No. 5. Indesit IWUB 4085
Indesit IWUB 4085
Fifth place goes to another model from the Italian company Indesit, which with its products directly confirms the following thesis: inexpensive washing machines are not necessarily low-functional.
The mixture of versatility and reasonable price is confirmed by the Indesit IWUB 4085 - a model designed not only for one person, but also for a small family of up to three people. The strict white body, which is the “trademark” of this brand, hides the ability to load things into the tank up to 4 kg, adjust the spin speed at a maximum of 800 rpm, the ability to set the wash to any of 13 programs and an imbalance control system to prevent the appearance of vibration.
On the control panel of this washing machine there are knobs responsible for selecting a program and regulating the temperature. Setting the mode for subsequent washing is quite simple - you need to turn the knob to a certain number, the value of which can be found in the instructions for use. After that, add a certain amount of powder and conditioner and start the machine.
This washing machine is considered quite economical, because its cost per wash is only 0.1 kW of electricity and 39 liters of water.
Technical specifications:
- loading type – front;
- control – mechanical;
- tank capacity – 4 kg;
- tank material – plastic;
- cleaning class – A;
- spin class – D.
Indesit IWUB 4085 is a practical choice for practical people.
pros
- Reliability.
- Practicality.
- Low price.
- A large number of programs.
- Good characteristics.
Minuses
- Quite noisy when working.
- Weak spin.
- There is no indication.
Indesit IWUB 4085
No. 4. Indesit IWSC 6105
Indesit IWSC 6105
Fourth place goes to a rather interesting model from the Italian Indesit – IWSC 6105. Surprisingly, it, like other models of this company, has a strictly white body. Inside there is a 4 kg tank, 15 cleaning programs, and the ability to save energy.
All 15 programs are necessary, so there won’t be one that won’t be used. The most frequently used ones are delicate, express, rinse and light-colored fabrics. In addition, there is a gentle mode for wool items, as well as a mode for cleaning stubborn stains.
The combination of a quiet pump and an inverter motor looks quite interesting, which allows the machine to operate almost silently. You won’t hear the washing done at night, but in the morning you will collect the already cleaned items.
It is worth noting the use of proprietary technology in Indesit IWSC 6105, which allows the detergent to be dissolved so that the powder turns into foam, and this foam is already used to clean stains of varying severity.
If you have long been looking for an inexpensive and high-quality machine that will do its job well, then you need to pay attention to the Indesit IWSC 6105.
Technical specifications:
- loading type – front;
- control – electronic;
- tank capacity – 4 kg;
- tank material – plastic;
- cleaning class – A;
- spin class – C.
pros
- Relatively high tank capacity.
- Adequate price for purchase.
- A large number of programs for cleaning things.
- Low noise washing machine.
- Small dimensions.
Minuses
- Lack of child protection.
- No display.
- In some cases you have to add water.
Indesit IWSC 6105
No. 3. Samsung WF8590NLW9
Samsung WF8590NLW9
The Samsung WF8590NLW9 washing machine became the bronze medalist in our rating. Its strictly white design with splashes of gray, the presence of a screen, electronic control, eight washing modes - all this can be immediately seen by looking at this model.
All modes that are available in this model will be used quite often. Here are just a few examples:
- cotton;
- wool;
- synthetics;
- Kids' things.
In addition, additional settings can be made in this machine. For example, nothing prevents you from adjusting the temperature of the washing water, the spin speed, and the inclusion of additional functions (spin only or spin after rinse).
The “feature” of this model is Silver Wash technology, the principle of which is to enrich the detergent solution with silver ions before washing. It is thanks to this technology that it is possible to ensure that all bacteria are eliminated during washing.
Technical specifications:
- loading type – front;
- control – electronic;
- tank capacity – 6 kg;
- tank material – plastic;
- cleaning class – A;
- spin class – C.
We strongly suggest that you take a closer look at this washing machine, which may be quite a suitable option for you.
pros
- Availability of Silver technology
- High tank capacity.
- Good cleaning and spin class.
- Quite flexible settings.
Minuses
- Noisy during spin cycle.
Reviews and prices for the Samsung WF8590NLW9 washing machine
No. 2. Gorenje WP60S2/IRV
Gorenje WP60S2/IRV
The second place in our rating was taken by a washing machine from the famous Slovenian company Gorenje – WP60S2/IRV. Its high quality is confirmed by various tests, but more on that later.
This model is distinguished by a fairly large tank. You can fit as many as six kilograms of laundry in it, which is more than enough for a large family with more than three people. Additionally, front loading makes loading more convenient. What’s more interesting is the dimensions of the “washing machine”, with which it can fit into almost any room, no matter where you place it.
A modern washing machine, as it should be, has an electronic control system, thanks to which you can easily select the cleaning program you need.
Note that this machine has a total of sixteen cleaning programs, almost all of which will be relevant to the owners. The display will help you with finer settings of temperature, spin speed, as well as turning on or off additional options. There is also protection against children who may accidentally change the wash settings while playing.
The proprietary SterilTub self-cleaning technology helps prevent the accumulation of dirt and other debris in order to keep all the mechanisms of this washing machine safe and sound.
People in their reviews leave entirely positive impressions about working with this washing machine, which indicates its high quality.
If you want a high-quality washing machine that will please you in every way, we offer you the Gorenje WP60S2/IRV.
Technical specifications:
- loading type – front;
- control – electronic;
- tank capacity – 6 kg;
- tank material – plastic;
- cleaning class – A;
- spin class – C.
pros
- Good wash and spin quality.
- High quality build.
- Great functionality.
- Availability of display.
- Variety of cleaning programs.
Minuses
- No timer.
Gorenje WP60S2/IRV
No. 1. Hotpoint-Ariston VMUF 501 B
Hotpoint-Ariston VMUF 501 B
First place is occupied by a very interesting model from the no less interesting company Hotpoint-Ariston. Its model VMUF 501 BB attracts attention with its design - a mixture of white and black. This design option definitely looks advantageous compared to previous models.
In addition, it is worth highlighting the fairly high capacity of the washing machine tank - 5 kg. And as it becomes clear from people’s words and reviews on the Internet, this machine is more than enough for families of two or three people.
Since today there is a tendency to live in small apartments, the issue of compactness is quite acute. This model perfectly copes with the task of placement in small rooms. In addition, it is convenient to transport from place to place if you prefer rented housing.
Like other models of this brand, VMUF 501 B has software control. In this case, the program is selected using a rotary switch. And to make it easier to keep track of everything, the car has a display that shows all the necessary information.
There are many positive reviews about the Hotpoint Ariston VMUF 501 B and their number is quite justified. A well-thought-out cleaning system, ergonomics, quality of construction, and the presence of many cleaning methods - this model provides all this in abundance. That's why they love her. They also speak positively about the delayed start (maximum one day), which is convenient for night washes.
Technical specifications:
- loading type – front;
- control – electronic;
- tank capacity – 5 kg;
- tank material – plastic;
- cleaning class – A;
- spin class – C.
Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of this model to more clearly reveal why it is in first place.
pros
- Possibility of additional loading after the start of washing.
- Flexibility in setting up programs. Possibility of manual adjustment of several parameters within one program.
- Compactness of the machine. Due to this, the machine can be installed in any room under any conditions. In addition, it is convenient to move it from apartment to apartment.
- Silence of the machine. Judging by the reviews, proper installation of the machine ensures almost complete absence of noise. In addition, noise reduction can be achieved by adjusting the legs.
- Large and spacious drum.
- Really high quality wash.
- Reasonable price. This washing machine, which has all the necessary functions, can be purchased at a price affordable for most people.
- Pleasant design that can fit into the interior of any room.
Minuses
- Some modes require a long wash, which does not satisfy everyone.
- There is no additional rinse function, which is frustrating. For this reason, dark items need to be cleaned by hand or thrown into the machine again for a second wash.
- In rare cases, the electronics of the machine malfunctioned. There were also cases of constant sound notification, which could only be eliminated by turning off the entire machine.
- There is no possibility of deep adjustment of the “quick wash” mode, which is why it can only be used for washing lightly soiled items.
Hotpoint-Ariston VMUF 501 B
About the tank
As mentioned a little earlier, the tank is an important part of the washing machine. This is where the washing process takes place. In order for the washing machine to work for a long time and the washing to be done efficiently, you need to make sure that the tank meets several requirements.
- Strength.
- Durability of the material.
- High resistance to negative conditions.
- Protection must be installed in the design of the tank.
The tank is one of the most important parts of the washing machine, so it must be strong enough
Operating conditions and service life extension
When choosing a device, they are guided by its technical characteristics, for example, power, type of heating element and control panel, volume and location of the tank. The approach is certainly correct, but not complete, if you remember the conditions under which it is used.
During operation, the water heater consumes its resource. The inner surface of the tank is constantly in contact with water with regular temperature fluctuations. In this operating mode, water becomes an electrolyte, which triggers the process of electrochemical corrosion of the container. At the same time, there is a risk of salt deposits, because the water flowing through the pipes contains many impurities.
The formation of scale and corrosion affects the longevity of the boiler. To slow down these processes and extend service life, manufacturers use various technologies:
- A magnesium anode is installed. Magnesium is able to protect the heating element from scale formation, and the container from corrosion, slowing down these processes.
- They develop a special shape for the tank, which slows down the accumulation of scale.
- Cover the inner surface with an inert material with protective properties.
Source lifehacker.ru
Materials for making the tank
Since the washing machine tank is an essential element, therefore, a problem with it means a problem with the entire machine. It’s easy to determine what material the tank is made of: just bend the rubber band of the hatch a little.
In general, there are two types of washing machine tubs:
- plastic;
- made of stainless steel.
By the way, there are also metal tanks, but they are not used today - they were popular 10-20 years ago.
Below we will look at each type in more detail.
Tank material is an important point when selecting a future washing machine
Metal
Typically, most washing machines used to have metal tubs with an enamel coating. Yes, they were extremely reliable, but now they are no longer produced.
Through the advantages and disadvantages we will try to explain why they no longer exist.
| Advantages | Flaws |
| High strength | Heavy in weight. |
| Not subject to corrosion | If the enamel begins to crumble, corrosion cannot be avoided. |
It was precisely because of the damage to the enamel and subsequent damage to the entire tank and washer that metal was abandoned. Nowadays tanks are produced using two materials – stainless steel and plastic.
Stainless steel
Today, stainless steel has become one of the most commonly used, strong and durable materials. She is not at all afraid of water, but she still has her drawbacks. As a rule, you need to pay a high price for strength and durability, and you also have to put up with the increased noise of your washing machine.
Metal has high heat transfer, so hot water in a steel container cools faster than in a plastic one
Today you need to make sure of the high quality of the washing machine itself before installing a stainless steel tank. Therefore, the conclusion is simple - only expensive brands have tanks made of this material.
Plastic
Since the idea of low noise reigns in society today, most brands prefer to use another material - plastic. Let's consider its pros and cons.
pros
- Little vibration comes from the washer and tank.
- Water in a plastic tank will cool down more slowly.
- Easy to process.
- The resistance to corrosion and rot is quite high, so the plastic tank will last a long time.
- The cost of plastic is cheaper than steel.
In addition to the advantages, the plastic tank also has a disadvantage.
Minuses
- Plastic is more susceptible to damage and deformation due to impacts. The main reason for this is trying to fix it yourself.
Plastic tanks are the most common option today.
Let's consider below the subtypes of plastic that are used in creating a plastic tank.
Masters' opinion
Rarely, washing machine users have used their unit for more than 20-30 years (the average service life of a polymer tank and drum), so assessing the quality of parts comes down to only some aspects of operation.
Buyers of machines with plastic tanks highlight their reasonable cost and lack of noise during operation. Steel parts emit a lot of vibration.
Repair technicians can evaluate the quality of the tank based on the selected material. According to reviews, working with plastic tanks is easier, they are easier to remove and put back in place, and their design is simpler.
But if the tank cracks, which is quite likely, if a foreign object gets inside the mechanism, or after transportation they forgot to remove the shipping bolts, then the tank will have to be replaced.
To summarize, the best material is stainless steel. It costs more, but will last an excellent long service.
Watch the video in which a specialist explains how you can check the drum of a washing machine:
Subtypes of plastic
Today, various modifications of plastic are produced that have good characteristics - polynox, silitek and carborane. Of all of them, polynox is used most often.
Let's look at all three materials briefly below.
Polynox
The first of the three materials, which is most often used when creating plastic tanks for washing machines, is polynox. And trying to understand what this material is, you need to turn to its name. It seems to “hear” and “feel” the connection with plastic. And indeed it is.
Polynox is really a subtype of plastic, and to be more precise, polynox is a kind of polypropylene. Changes are made to its structure, additives are added to resist vibration and improve thermal insulation properties, and after that it turns into the same polynox from which washing tanks are then made.
There are other polymers that are closely similar to polynox. For example, polyplex. This option is interesting for the following features.
pros
- High resistance to high temperature, water, corrosion.
- Polyplex tanks are quite silent.
- Good thermal conductivity.
Minuses
- Quite fragile material.
Washing machine tanks are often made from polynox.
Carborane
A slightly less used material than polynox is carborane. Interestingly, this material is found specifically in Electrolux products, which developed it. It is considered more durable than polyplex, but costs one and a half times more.
pros
- There are no odors left on it.
- It has dielectric properties, which means it is safe for everyone.
- High resistance to loads of mechanical and chemical origin.
- High thermal insulation rates allow you to save electricity.
- High-quality sound insulation.
Minuses
- High price.
Silitek
This material is similar in technical characteristics to polynox, but it will be even closer to basalt (a volcanic natural stone with high resistance to acid and alkali) and dolomite (a moisture-resistant but fragile natural mineral).
Let's look at the pros and cons of Silitec.
pros
- High resistance to high temperatures.
- Good sound absorption.
- Excellent thermal insulation.
Minuses
- High price.
Silitek is an expensive but reliable material
Drum with honeycombs: what's the catch?
Numerous experiments have confirmed that the “grater effect” does not actually work. Convex and rough drums do not wash away dirt better, but spoil the laundry, so more and more manufacturers are trying to achieve the least impact on the fabric. An acceptable standard option involves small holes, highly polished and with concave edges. There is also a new trend - the so-called honeycombs.
The honeycomb drum is patented by Miele and differs from the usual ones by the presence on the wall and sides of the cylinder of bulges in the form of hexagons, which outwardly resemble a honeycomb. Thanks to them, a water film is formed between the loaded laundry and the metal, which enhances slip and protects the structure of the fabric. And, according to the developer, the gentleness of washing is complemented by durability and low energy consumption.
Article on the topic: How to wash trousers in a washing machine
The catch with a fancy drum is one thing - the high cost is not justified. Many ordinary surfaces, well made, offer equally effective cleaning. If you choose a machine wisely, you can find a more advanced unit for the asking price.
