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How to choose a washing machine

When investing in a washing machine, there are several key concepts that you need to consider –the amount of washing you do and the type of laundry you wash, the machine’s capacity, how you dry your clothes, the level of performance you require, and energy efficiency.

Here’s what you need to know:

Spin speed
The faster the washing machine’s drum spins, the more water will be extracted from the washed clothes. If you regularly use a tumble dryer to dry your laundry, then it is very worthwhile investing in a washing machine with a high spin speed, as your laundry will dry much faster. The dryer the clothes come out of the washing machine, the less time they will need in the tumble dryer, which in turn, will dramatically reduce the energy consumption required to dry the laundry.

Capacity
The bigger the washing machine’s capacity, the fewer washes you will need to do every week. It also allows you to wash big items, like duvets and sleeping bags for example. A washing machine’s capacity is measured in kilograms of dry clothes, and they traditionally range from between 5kg and 10kg. Miele’s washing machines range between 6kg, which is the ideal size for a small family, up to 8kg, which is recommended for larger families and big items.

Energy efficiency
Washing machines are all graded in terms of how energy efficient they are on a scale from A to G, with A being the most efficient. Energy efficient washing machines use the least amount of electricity possible, and they are able to considerably cut water consumption. Although energy efficient models may cost a little more from the outset – their energy efficiency means that they pay themselves off a number of times during their life cycle.

Laundry care
The various wash programmes offered by a washing machine will go a long way to ensure that your laundry is well maintained. Various brands of washing machines have various programmes suited to your every need which allows the washing machine to think for you while you get on with the more important things in life.

Beat to the drum
It is important to take a look inside a washing machine before making your purchase, as the design and shape of the drum will ultimately influence the effectiveness of any machine.

This article is courtesy of Miele. For more information about their company and products, click here.

Click here for tips on how to choose a tumble dryer.

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