Why buy a new washing machine?
A washing machine can be used for washing all kinds of clothes, bed sheets, pillow covers, jackets, etc. With the help of a washing machine, you no longer need to strain yourself physically to scrub and squeeze clothes, which is tiring and time consuming. While your clothes are being washed in the washing machine, you can relax or carry on with other tasks. Unlike the washing machines of the past that only had washing and rinsing options, the recent ones are also capable of drying the clothes. Technology has advanced and the newest generations of washing machines are more efficient, faster and more effective at cleaning clothes, so if you use an old washing machine, it might be time to take a look at feature packed new models. Let’s now get a bit more in-depth to understand what type of washing machine best suits your needs.
Types of washing machines Top loading washing machines
As the name suggests, clothes in this type of washing machine are loaded from the top. These are the most popular washing machines and usually the preferred choice for first time buyers. They are affordable and portable. Top loading washing machines can be subdivided into two types.
Semi-Automatic washing machines
Semi-automatic washing machines use two separate tubs, one for washing clothes and the other for drying. To operate the washing and drying time settings, there are two separate timer knobs on these washing machines. Once the clothes are washed in the washing tub, you can choose to dry them in the sun, or transfer them to the dryer tub to spin dry.
Fully-automatic washing machines
Fully-automatic washing machines only have one tub that serves both as a washer and a drier. The water inlet needs to be connected to a nearby tap and depending on the weight and number of clothes you put in, the machine automatically decides and intakes the appropriate amount of water and sets the timer for washing and drying. The only manual intervention required is in pouring the detergent – although some newer models use an auto-dosing system that automatically decides the right amount of detergent required! Once the wash and rinse cycle is over, the machine automatically switches into the drying mode and dries the clothes.
Front loading washing machines
As the name suggests, clothes in this type of washing machines are loaded from the front. These are generally more expensive than the top-loading washers but offer higher efficiency levels along with top-of-the-line features. With a more efficient washing method, they are also known to consume less detergent and water. This machine also uses the same drum to wash and dry clothes and some of the newer models also come with a steam function that eaves the clothes a little moist after drying to keep them wrinkle free. This type offers various wash methods designed for different cloth materials and wash types. The hot water function in some of the models is used to keep the clothes allergen free and has been a very popular feature recently.
Which one is better and why?
Among the washing machine types, fully-automatic front load ones offer numerous advantages over the others. They are a comparatively more expensive, but offer more energy and water efficiency, less noisy and require less detergent. In terms of wash quality, it is widely accepted that the front loading models offer the better results.
What else do you need to consider? Build quality and aesthetics
Once you’ve selected the type of washing machine, you should also look at its build quality and aesthetics. While the entry level washers are made from thin plastic, the high-end models are made of strong and sturdy polycarbonate. Aesthetics is another thing to look for in a washing machine. Right from plain design to premium metallic colours and floral designs, a lot of options are available to match the surrounding décor and your personal taste. Finally you should also consider the size and dimensions of the washing machines and how it will fit in the area you’ve allocated for it.
Load capacity
When it comes to washing machines, the load capacity is an easy thing to figure out. It’s denoted in kilograms (kg) – the larger the drum, the more clothes you can wash at a time. The capacity of washing machines ranges from 5kg to 12kg to suit every size of household. An individual or a couple will be best served with a smaller washer with a capacity of 6.5 kg or less. A small family with 3-4 members with average wash load can be comfortable with the choice of a 7-7.5 kg Washing machine. Joint families or people with heavier wash load needs can go for a washer with 8kg or more capacity.
Spin Speed
The spinning speed of a washing machine ranges from 800 rpm (rotations per minute) to 1600 rpm or more. The faster the spin speed, the more moisture can be extracted, leaving the clothes drier. A faster spin speed is perfect for thicker materials such as jeans and jackets that normally require a lot of time for drying.
Wash programmes
Washing machines have many washing modes and the main ones include wool wash, hand wash, quick wash, delicate wash, silk wash and anti-crease. Other wash programmes include extra rinse, pre-wash, intensive wash, economy wash, etc. These days, a lot of washing machines also come with Fuzzy Logic programme, in which the built-in sensors select the appropriate settings automatically. Hot water wash and steam finish are also some of the newer functions being offered by some brands.
Controls and ease of use
When looking for washing machines, you should also look at the type of controls it has. The semi-automatic ones usually have knobs to set the timer for the washer and dryer. However, the fully-automatic ones have push buttons for functions and timer settings. The higher-end front loading washing machines come equipped with push buttons along with a small LCD and touch panel, which displays information about the timer, wash mode selected, etc.
Price range, brands and models of washing machines
Washing machines are manufactured by all the leading brands like LG, IFB, Samsung, Bosch Whirlpool and more. Reliance digital offers a wide assortment of all types of washing machines so that you can select the perfect one for your house. Every product page talks about the different features and functions of that model so you can decide which model is right for you.
A Semi-Automatic washer can be bought starting around ₹ 6000-7000* and goes all the way up to around ₹15000* and above for models with a higher capacity and more functions.
A Fully Automatic Top Load washing machine ranges between ₹10000* to all the way up to ₹40000* and above for high-end models.
A Front Load washer can be bought for a price between ₹16000 to ₹75000*
*All prices are subject to change and availability of specific models.
Home remedies for effective stain removal
After you’ve bought a washing machine, here are some handful tips that will help you in getting rid of those annoying stains.
- Using baking soda with detergent reduces odour from the clothes and also helps softens the fabric.
- To remove milder stains, white vinegar works very well. It also brightens and whitens your clothes in the process.
- To get rid of rust and yellow underarm stains from your white clothes, squeezing some lemon juice does the trick.
- For red wine, tea and coffee stains, table salt is said to work as a good abrasive element. One needs to remember that if you fail to wash it out completely, salt can leave white stains on the fabric.
- Corn starch, chalk and baby powder are great for absorbing oily stains. Just rub the stains with either of these, allow it to work for an hour or so and then brush away.
