After many costly lessons, I advise against buying these five types of washing machines, whether you’re looking for a new one or replacing an old one. Falling for these options will only bring frustration and financial loss. Take it from someone who has firsthand experience with these machines’ shortcomings!
1. 2-in-1 Washer and Dryer Machines
While these machines appeal to consumers looking to save space and gain convenience, they often deliver the opposite. The drying capacity is typically only 60% of the washing capacity, forcing users to split their loads and dry in two batches, each taking up to four hours. This doubles the time and energy consumption, resulting in sky-high utility bills.
The drying function also tends to disappoint, leaving clothes wrinkled and unwearable. Bed linens shrink, becoming unusable. The rubber gasket around the door accumulates fabric fibers and lint, proving challenging to clean thoroughly.
It’s best to invest in separate washing and drying machines for a more stable, cleaner, and hassle-free laundry experience.
2. “Super Smart” Washing Machines
Many washing machine brands today tout their smart features, but some of these end up being more gimmicky than useful. For instance, a three-compartment machine can wash different types of laundry simultaneously but can’t spin all loads together, prolonging the overall process. Moreover, the absence of a drying function limits its practicality.
The much-hyped three-dimensional washing feature, meant to deep clean using sensors and unique movements, often results in wrinkled and damaged clothes. Some machines with auto-dispensing functions use too little detergent, leading to insufficient cleaning, requiring manual intervention mid-cycle.
These features are often marketing ploys, offering little real value. When choosing a washing machine, prioritize durability, simplicity, and genuine effectiveness over flashy tech gimmicks.
3-compartment Washing Machine.
3. Machines That Don’t Allow Mid-Cycle Door Opening
It’s frustrating when you forget to include an item or find something in the pocket that shouldn’t be washed, only to realize your machine doesn’t allow mid-cycle door opening. Some machines require you to perform an extra spin cycle before you can open the door, while others will spill water if you attempt to open them. I once had to endure a 45-minute cycle and then hand-wash an item I’d forgotten to include.
Top-loading machines (vertical drums) don’t usually have this issue, but front-loading machines (horizontal drums) often do. When considering a front-loading machine, especially, be sure to inquire about mid-cycle door opening to avoid this inconvenience.
4. Machines with a Capacity Below 8kg
My first washing machine had a 6kg capacity, which I thought would be sufficient for two people. However, it struggled to handle large items like beddings and even broke down once while washing a single thick coat. Now, I use a 10kg machine, which comfortably handles bulky items without any issues.
Opt for a machine with a capacity of at least 10kg, regardless of your family size. This will allow you to wash large items like blankets, curtains, and thick clothes in one go, saving time, water, and electricity. A smaller machine will require you to split these loads, resulting in higher costs and more time spent on laundry.
5. Machines with a Low Water Drainage System
Washing machines typically have either a top or bottom water drainage system. Bottom drainage machines often don’t empty the water completely, leading to stagnant water that fosters bacteria, mold, and unpleasant odors. These machines require a dedicated drainage path.
On the other hand, top drainage machines use a pump to expel water, allowing for more installation flexibility. They can be placed in various locations without the need for a special drainage path. This system provides cleaner drainage, inhibits bacterial growth and odors, and allows for water recycling or connection to a common drainage system.
