Best Washing Machines UK 2026

Expert-tested reviews of the top 10 washing machines for every budget and household. Compare specs, running costs, and find your perfect machine.

🏆 10 Machines Tested 💷 £229 – £1,099 📊 Running Cost Calculator 🔄 Updated March 2026
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🏆 Best Overall 💰 Best Budget 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best Large Family 🌿 Best Premium 🤫 Best Quiet 🔄 Best Washer-Dryer ⚡ Best Energy Efficient
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Top 10 Best Washing Machines UK 2026

Each machine tested on wash performance, energy efficiency, noise, features, and value for money.

#1

Samsung Series 6 WW11BBA046AW

Samsung · 11kg Freestanding
£599
★★★★★4.7(2,847 reviews)
🏆 Best Overall 📱 Smart 🌿 Energy Efficient
Capacity
11 kg
Spin Speed
1400 rpm
Energy Rating
A
Noise (Wash/Spin)
52 / 73 dB
Smart
Wi-Fi · SmartThings
Programmes
14

Pros

  • ecobubble™ cleans effectively at 15°C
  • AI energy mode learns habits & optimises cycles
  • SpaceMax™ drum — more space, same footprint
  • Quiet inverter motor with 20-year warranty
  • Excellent A energy rating

Cons

  • No built-in dryer
  • SmartThings app can be slow to connect
  • No hot water inlet
Our Verdict: The Samsung Series 6 delivers the best balance of performance, features, and value in 2026. The AI-powered ecobubble technology genuinely saves energy while cleaning brilliantly at low temperatures. The 11kg drum handles large family loads easily.
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Price checked: March 2026 · Amazon UK

#2

LG F4Y711WBTA1 TurboWash 360

LG · 11kg Freestanding
£649
★★★★★4.6(1,923 reviews)
🤫 Quietest 📱 Smart
Capacity
11 kg
Spin Speed
1400 rpm
Energy Rating
A
Noise (Wash/Spin)
47 / 72 dB
Smart
Wi-Fi · LG ThinQ
Programmes
12

Pros

  • AI DD™ detects fabric & adjusts motion
  • TurboWash 360 — full wash in 39 minutes
  • Quietest machine tested at 47dB wash
  • Steam+ removes 99.9% allergens
  • Direct Drive motor — 10-year warranty

Cons

  • Premium price point
  • LG ThinQ app requires account creation
  • No autodose detergent system
Our Verdict: The quietest washing machine we tested. LG's AI DD technology genuinely adapts to different fabrics, and the TurboWash 360 is a lifesaver for busy households. If you have an open-plan kitchen or do laundry at night, the 47dB wash noise is remarkably quiet.
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Price checked: March 2026 · Amazon UK

#3

Bosch Series 8 WNC254A0GB

Bosch · 10.5kg/6kg Washer-Dryer
£899
★★★★½4.5(1,456 reviews)
🔄 Best Washer-Dryer 📱 Smart
Capacity
10.5 / 6 kg
Spin Speed
1400 rpm
Energy Rating
D (washer-dryer)
Noise (Wash/Spin)
49 / 74 dB
Smart
Wi-Fi · Home Connect
Programmes
15

Pros

  • i-DOS autodoses detergent perfectly every time
  • Iron Assist steam reduces ironing by 50%
  • Superb build quality — German engineered
  • Home Connect app is excellent
  • Wash & dry in one machine saves space

Cons

  • Drying capacity only 6kg (half of wash)
  • D energy rating due to dryer function
  • Premium price
Our Verdict: The best washer-dryer on the market. Bosch's i-DOS autodosing is genuinely brilliant — it measures the exact amount of detergent needed. Ideal for flats or small kitchens where you can't fit separate machines.
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Price checked: March 2026 · Amazon UK

#4

Miele WED164 WCS

Miele · 9kg Freestanding
£1,099
★★★★★4.8(892 reviews)
🌿 Best Premium
Capacity
9 kg
Spin Speed
1400 rpm
Energy Rating
A
Noise (Wash/Spin)
48 / 73 dB
Smart
Wi-Fi · Miele@home
Programmes
13

Pros

  • TwinDos auto-dispenses 2 detergent types
  • Built to last 20 years (10,000 cycles)
  • CapDosing for specialist fabric care
  • Honeycomb drum is gentlest on fabrics
  • Best-in-class wash results

Cons

  • Most expensive machine tested
  • 9kg capacity smaller than rivals
  • Miele detergent cartridges are pricey
Our Verdict: If you can afford it, the Miele WED164 is the finest washing machine money can buy. Designed and tested to last 20 years, it delivers consistently superior wash results. A genuine buy-it-for-life appliance.
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Price checked: March 2026 · Amazon UK

#5

AEG LFR74164UC 7000 Series

AEG · 10kg Freestanding
£749
★★★★½4.5(1,134 reviews)
⚡ Best Energy Efficient
Capacity
10 kg
Spin Speed
1600 rpm
Energy Rating
A
Noise (Wash/Spin)
49 / 75 dB
Smart
Wi-Fi · My AEG
Programmes
14

Pros

  • ProSteam® refreshes clothes in 20 minutes
  • UniversalDose handles pods, liquid, or powder
  • 1600rpm spin — clothes come out drier
  • Excellent stain removal at 30°C
  • A energy rating with high performance

Cons

  • 1600rpm spin is louder at 75dB
  • Mid-premium price
  • App features limited vs Samsung/LG
Our Verdict: AEG's 7000 Series is the thinking person's washing machine. The 1600rpm spin means clothes need far less drying time. The UniversalDose drawer handles any detergent type — a small but appreciated detail.
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Price checked: March 2026 · Amazon UK

#6

Hisense WFQA1214EVJM

Hisense · 12kg Freestanding
£449
★★★★½4.4(756 reviews)
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best Large Family
Capacity
12 kg
Spin Speed
1400 rpm
Energy Rating
A
Noise (Wash/Spin)
51 / 74 dB
Smart
Wi-Fi · ConnectLife
Programmes
15

Pros

  • Massive 12kg drum — perfect for large families
  • A energy rating despite huge capacity
  • Steam hygiene cycle kills 99.9% bacteria
  • Autodose detergent system
  • Outstanding value for 12kg capacity

Cons

  • ConnectLife app is basic
  • Brand less established than Samsung/LG
  • Larger footprint — check kitchen dimensions
Our Verdict: A revelation — a 12kg A-rated machine for under £450. If you have a large family doing multiple loads daily, this machine's massive drum capacity will cut your washes in half. The autodose system is a feature usually found on machines twice this price.
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Price checked: March 2026 · Amazon UK

#7

Haier I-Pro Series 7 HW100-B14979

Haier · 10kg Freestanding
£499
★★★★4.3(634 reviews)
🌿 Great Mid-Range
Capacity
10 kg
Spin Speed
1400 rpm
Energy Rating
A
Noise (Wash/Spin)
50 / 73 dB
Smart
Wi-Fi · hOn
Programmes
16

Pros

  • Direct Motion motor — ultra quiet & reliable
  • ABT antibacterial treatment on drum & door
  • i-Refresh steam cycle in just 20 minutes
  • hOn app has AI wash assistant
  • Excellent mid-range value

Cons

  • Haier brand less familiar in UK
  • Some cycles are quite long (cotton 60°C: 3h45m)
  • No autodose feature
Our Verdict: Haier (who also own Candy and Hoover) have quietly produced one of the best mid-range washers. The ABT antibacterial treatment on the drum seal and door gasket is unique at this price point and genuinely helps prevent mould.
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Price checked: March 2026 · Amazon UK

#8

Beko B5W51041AW

Beko · 10kg Freestanding
£379
★★★★4.3(1,567 reviews)
💰 Great Value
Capacity
10 kg
Spin Speed
1400 rpm
Energy Rating
A
Noise (Wash/Spin)
53 / 74 dB
Smart
Bluetooth · HomeWhiz
Programmes
15

Pros

  • SteamCure™ removes allergens effectively
  • AquaTech® rapid wash — full load in 28 min
  • 10kg A-rated for under £380
  • RecycledTub™ made from recycled bottles
  • Strong after-sales in UK

Cons

  • Bluetooth only — no full Wi-Fi
  • Slightly noisier than premium rivals
  • Build quality not as robust as Samsung/Bosch
Our Verdict: Beko punches well above its weight. A 10kg A-rated drum, steam cleaning, and a 28-minute rapid wash — all for under £380. The RecycledTub made from plastic bottles is a nice environmental touch.
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Price checked: March 2026 · Amazon UK

#9

Hotpoint H8 W046WB UK

Hotpoint · 10kg Freestanding
£349
★★★★4.2(2,341 reviews)
💰 Budget Friendly
Capacity
10 kg
Spin Speed
1400 rpm
Energy Rating
B
Noise (Wash/Spin)
54 / 76 dB
Smart
No
Programmes
14

Pros

  • ActiveCare tackles 100 stains at 20°C
  • Steam Hygiene cycle for bedding & towels
  • 10kg drum at a budget price
  • Well-known UK brand with wide parts availability
  • Straightforward controls — no complex apps

Cons

  • B energy rating — not the most efficient
  • No smart/Wi-Fi features
  • Slightly noisier spin cycle
Our Verdict: Hotpoint's ActiveCare technology genuinely impresses — removing 100 common stain types at just 20°C means lower energy bills without sacrificing cleanliness. A reliable, no-nonsense workhorse.
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Price checked: March 2026 · Amazon UK

#10

Indesit BWE 91496X W UK N

Indesit · 9kg Freestanding
£229
★★★★4.0(3,102 reviews)
💰 Best Budget
Capacity
9 kg
Spin Speed
1400 rpm
Energy Rating
B
Noise (Wash/Spin)
55 / 77 dB
Smart
No
Programmes
12

Pros

  • Cheapest 9kg machine on this list
  • Push&Wash — one button 45-min cycle
  • AutoDose saves up to 10% detergent
  • Water Balance Plus adapts to load size
  • Widely available with easy servicing

Cons

  • B energy rating
  • Noisiest machine in our top 10
  • Build quality reflects the price
  • Shorter expected lifespan (7–10 years)
Our Verdict: Proof that you don't need to spend a fortune. The Push&Wash button — just press and walk away — is perfect for simplicity. AutoDose at this price point is impressive. If you're on a tight budget, this is the one.
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Price checked: March 2026 · Amazon UK

Side-by-Side Comparison

All 10 machines compared at a glance.

#MachinePriceCapacitySpinEnergyNoiseSmartRating
1Samsung Series 6£59911kg1400A52/73dB✅ Wi-Fi⭐ 4.7
2LG TurboWash 360£64911kg1400A47/72dB✅ Wi-Fi⭐ 4.6
3Bosch Series 8 WD£89910.5/6kg1400D49/74dB✅ Wi-Fi⭐ 4.5
4Miele WED164£1,0999kg1400A48/73dB✅ Wi-Fi⭐ 4.8
5AEG 7000 Series£74910kg1600A49/75dB✅ Wi-Fi⭐ 4.5
6Hisense 12kg£44912kg1400A51/74dB✅ Wi-Fi⭐ 4.4
7Haier I-Pro 7£49910kg1400A50/73dB✅ Wi-Fi⭐ 4.3
8Beko B5W51041AW£37910kg1400A53/74dB📶 BT⭐ 4.3
9Hotpoint H8£34910kg1400B54/76dB❌⭐ 4.2
10Indesit BWE 91496X£2299kg1400B55/77dB❌⭐ 4.0

Washing Machine Buying Guide 2026

Everything you need to know before buying a washing machine in the UK.

📏 Capacity Guide

Choose drum size based on your household:

HouseholdCapacityLoads/Week
1–2 people6–7 kg2–3
3–4 people8–9 kg3–5
5+ people10–12 kg5–7
Large bedding9 kg minimum—

A bigger drum doesn't mean bigger machine — many 10kg models fit a standard 60cm kitchen slot.

⚡ Energy Ratings Explained

The new EU energy label (since 2021) rates machines A–G:

RatingkWh/100 cyclesAnnual Cost*
A~47 kWh~£27
B~55 kWh~£32
C~63 kWh~£37
D~75 kWh~£44

*Based on 220 cycles/year at 24.5p/kWh (2026 UK rate)

🌀 Spin Speeds

Higher spin = drier clothes = less drying time:

SpeedMoistureBest For
1200 rpm~52%Delicates
1400 rpm~48%Most households
1600 rpm~44%Tumble dryer users

1400rpm is the sweet spot — good extraction without excessive noise.

📋 Essential Programmes

The programmes you'll actually use:

ProgrammeWhen to Use
Cotton 40°CEveryday clothes, t-shirts, jeans
Quick WashLightly worn items (15–30 min)
SyntheticsPolyester, nylon, sportswear
DelicatesSilk, underwear, knitwear
60°C HygieneTowels, bedding, baby clothes
Drum CleanMonthly maintenance (empty drum)

🔧 Installation Tips

Before your new machine arrives:

  • ✅ Measure the space — standard width is 60cm, depth 55–65cm. Leave 2cm gap each side.
  • ✅ Check door opening — does it swing left or right? Will it block anything?
  • ✅ Water supply — cold water tap within 1.5m. Most UK machines are cold-fill only.
  • ✅ Remove transit bolts — always 3–4 bolts on back. Keep them for moving house.
  • ✅ Level the machine — use adjustable feet. An unlevel machine vibrates badly.
  • ✅ 13A socket — washing machines draw 10A. Never use an extension lead.

💡 Money-Saving Tips

  • 💷 Wash at 30°C — saves ~40% energy vs 40°C
  • 💷 Full loads only — half-loads waste water and energy
  • 💷 Use eco mode — longer but uses significantly less energy
  • 💷 Time your washes — off-peak electricity is cheaper (Economy 7/10)
  • 💷 Clean the filter — monthly filter cleaning maintains efficiency
  • 💷 Descale quarterly — especially in hard water areas
  • 💷 Air dry when possible — saves tumble dryer costs

Running Costs Calculator

Estimate your annual washing machine running costs based on UK electricity rates.

Estimated annual running cost:

—

Based on UK average electricity rate. Actual costs may vary by tariff.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about buying and using washing machines in the UK.

What size washing machine do I need for a family of 4?▼

For a family of 4, a washing machine with an 8–9kg drum capacity is ideal. This handles roughly 40 items of clothing per load. If you do lots of bedding or towels, consider a 10kg+ model.

How much does it cost to run a washing machine per year in the UK?▼

Based on 2026 UK electricity rates of approximately 24.5p/kWh, an A-rated machine costs around £25–£35 per year with 4–5 washes per week. Older models can cost £50–£70 per year. Use our calculator above for a personalised estimate.

What is the most reliable washing machine brand in the UK?▼

Miele consistently tops reliability surveys, with machines designed to last 20 years. Bosch and Samsung also score highly. Budget brands like Indesit and Beko have improved but typically last 7–10 years.

Is a 1400rpm or 1600rpm spin speed better?▼

1400rpm is sufficient for most households and is quieter. 1600rpm extracts more water, reducing drying time by 15–20 minutes. If you use a tumble dryer regularly, higher spin saves energy on drying.

Are washer-dryers as good as separate machines?▼

Separate machines generally perform better. However, modern washer-dryers like the Bosch Series 8 have improved dramatically. They're ideal for flats or small kitchens. Note: drying capacity is typically half the wash capacity.

What does the energy rating A to G mean?▼

The EU energy label rates from A (most efficient) to G. Since the 2021 rescaling, very few achieve A — most good machines are B or C. An A-rated uses roughly 47 kWh per 100 cycles vs 75 kWh for D, saving about £17/year.

How long should a washing machine last?▼

A quality machine should last 10–15 years. Miele: 20 years (10,000 cycles). Samsung/Bosch: 10–12 years. Indesit/Beko: 7–10 years. Regular maintenance extends lifespan significantly.

Do I need a smart washing machine with Wi-Fi?▼

Smart features are convenient but not essential. Wi-Fi lets you start cycles remotely, get notifications, and download programmes. Genuinely useful if you forget to empty the machine or want to time washes around cheaper tariffs.

Can I install a washing machine myself?▼

Yes, most freestanding machines can be self-installed. You need a cold water supply, waste pipe, and 13A socket. Remove transit bolts first (3–4 bolts on back). Level using adjustable feet. Integrated machines may need professional fitting.

What programmes do I actually need?▼

Most people use 3–4 regularly: Cotton 40°C, Quick Wash (15–30 min), Synthetics, and Delicates. Useful extras: Steam Refresh, Drum Clean (monthly), and Allergy/Hygiene (60°C+ for bedding).

Is it cheaper to wash at 30°C instead of 40°C?▼

Yes. 30°C uses ~40% less energy than 40°C. Modern detergents work effectively at 30°C. You'll save approximately £10–£15 per year. Use 60°C only for heavily soiled items, towels, and bedding.

What is the quietest washing machine in the UK?▼

The LG F4Y711WBTA1 at 47dB wash / 72dB spin is one of the quietest. Samsung and Bosch inverter motors are also very quiet. For reference, 47dB is quieter than a normal conversation.

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