Gone are the days when people used to hand wash their cloths, at-least for large majority of people. Surging Indian middles class has ensured that washing machines are essential part of their home appliances. This post will give you list of best washing machines in India along with in-depth guide and honest reviews.
With many brands and too much of media advertisements, it is not easy to choose a washing machine for your need. Variety of options and number of models available in the market can overwhelm you. You need to consider many things while buying a washing machine.
Therefore, we have come up with this ultimate guide to buy best washing machines in India. List includes mix of automatic as well as semi-automatic washers of top quality to suit most of the small and mid size families.
Comparative Analysis of Best Washing Machines in India
Before posting this, we ventured out on various online portals and carefully reviewed top quality washers based on below aspects:
- User rating in Amazon & Flipkart
- Price tag – value for money
- Star rating of the product
- Power consumption
- Energy efficiency ratios
- Decibel levels
Below you can quickly compare different brands of best washing machines in India and also our review rating at a glance. Check their price at Amazon to explore further.
| Washer Model | Type | PROS | CONS |
|---|---|---|---|
| LG 8 Kg FH2G6TDNL42 Price at Amazon | Front load – fully automatic | Child lock features Inbuilt heater Stainless Steel drum | Comparatively heavy |
| IFB 8 Kg – Senator Aqua SX Price at Amazon | Front load – fully automatic | High rpm that ensures drier clothes Facility to add fabric softener Washing blankets is possible | Requires a tap of a specific size during installation |
| Bosch 7 Kg – WAK24268IN Price at Amazon | Front load – fully automatic | Saves time, water, energy, and thereby, money Prompt after-sales service | Spare parts are expensive |
| IFB 6.5 Kg – Senorita Aqua SX Price at Amazon | Front load – fully automatic | Ideal for small families Variety of wash programmes Suitable for use with hard water | Does not fit into all taps |
| LG 6.0 Kg – FH0FANDNL02 Price at Amazon | Front load – fully automatic | Direct Drive technology reduces maintenance costs Water heater facility to ensure a hygienic wash6-motion technology to get rid of the most stubborn stains | The Auto Restart function does not work in the Child Lock mode |
| Samsung 6. Kg – FH0FANDNL02 Price at Amazon | Front load – fully automatic | Excellent washing performance Diamond drum prevents damage to clothes Energy-efficient | The LED display is difficult to see when operating the machine in the balcony The dial does not have a marker |
| LG 8 Kg – T9077NEDL1 Price at Amazon | Top load – fully automatic | Excellent washing performance Relatively silent operation Easy to use control options | Time adjustment for rinsing option is not available Drier function needs better designing |
| LG 6.5 Kg – T7581NDDLG Price at Amazon | Top load – fully automatic | Noiseless operation and easy to use control options Autostart feature Rat mesh available to protect the delicate parts of the machine | Not very effective in treating extremely dirty clothes Auto Restart does not function in the Child Lock mode |
| IFB 6.5 Kg – TL-RDW Price at Amazon | Top load – fully automatic | Great features like Triadic Pulsator, Child Lock, and Crescent grooves Environmentally friendly | Makes a little noise, but it is understandable Does not have a hot water wash option |
| Bosch 6.5 Kg – WOE654WOIN Price at Amazon | Top load – fully automatic | Eight wash cycles make it an excellent washing machine Great options such as soft closing lid to prevent injuries and damage Toughened glass lid | Service Quality is not up to the mark in some places. |
| LG 6.2 Kg – T7281NDDLG/ T7288NDDLG/ GD Price at Amazon | Top load – fully automatic | The Smart Closing Door is an excellent feature Ideal for a quick-fix job | Does not have an inbuilt heater |
| Haier 5.8 Kg – HWM58-020S Price at Amazon | Top load – fully automatic | One of the best machines to do a quick job Compact appliance | Control panel needs improvement No separate chamber for putting conditioner |
| LG 6.5 Kg – P7550R3FA Price at Amazon | Top load – Semi automatic | Ace Wash station to add to your convenience Lint filter to eliminate lint Scrubber to ensure proper washing of your clothes | Does not have the comfort and convenience of a full-automatic machine No facility for a hot water wash |
| Whirlpool 7.2 Kg S– Ace Supreme Plus Price at Amazon | Top load – Semi automatic | Spin speed is extremely good at 1300rpm The rat repellent is an excellent feature Lint collector and Air dry features are useful additions | Exit wastewater pipe is a bit short Similarly, the cable needs some extension |
| Samsung 7.2Kg – WT725QPNDMP Price at Amazon | Top load – Semi automatic | Buzzer alert is a welcome feature Air dryer enables quick drying of clothes Excellent washing performance | A laborious procedure as compared to fully-automatic machines No scope for a hot water wash |
Best Fully-Automatic Front-Loading Washing Machines
A fully-automatic front load machine comes with several programs and washing modes that will work at the push of a button. The machine does everything automatically, so once you’ve picked your program there is no need to do anything else, just turn it on.
A complete guide to buy fully-automatic front loading washing machine will be very handy while doing your search online.
1. IFB 8.0 Kg Washer – Senator Aqua SX
IFB is a very popular brand for manufacturing front loading automatic washing machines. This particular appliance is one the top seller. Its machines come with many exciting features, some of which is listed below.
Summary:
– The capacity of 8 Kg is ideal for 5-member families
– High spin speed of 1400 rpm
– Excellent features like wash care programmes for different fabrics
– Energy-efficient and saves water
IFB front loading washers have many advanced technologies. For example, Air Bubble Wash System that creates and releases agitated air bubbles to ensure a thorough cleaning job. These air bubbles penetrate into the layers of the cloth and get rid of stubborn grease stains.
Also, Aqua Energie feature is ideal for treating hard water. This system converts the bicarbonates in water into crystals, thereby making the water soft enough for the detergent to dissolve properly. The crystals formed are so small that they drain away with the water at the end of the washing cycle.
The exceptional 3D wash system uses nozzles to circulate the water 360 degrees around the drum. Thus, the detergent dissolves into the water and penetrates into the clothes better, thereby ensuring a deeper wash.
The Foam Control System provides a better wash by identifying excessive foam generation and diluting it to deliver an excellent washing experience.
This washing machine drum comes with crescent moon drum that curves the water into a swoosh pattern thus ensuring that the clothes do not rub against the steel drum and get damaged.
Additionally, this machine allows you to add more clothes amid a washing cycle by pressing the pause button. The Tub Clean feature discourages the growth of bacteria and other germs by eliminating all impurities from the water.
2. LG 8.0 Kg Inverter Washer – FH2G6TDNL42
LG is one of the most popular brands in India for home appliances such as refrigerators and air conditioners. Similarly, LG also has many top quality washing machines for different segments.
Appliance summary:
– Fully automatic front load with excellent features
– The capacity of 8 kg suits families of 5 people and more
– Spin speed of 1200 rpm
– 6-Motion Direct Drive Motor with touch panel
– In-built heater for deeper cleaning
– Smart Diagnostic features
– Stainless Steel drum
This front loading washing machine from LG comes with exciting technology features. This LG FH2G6TDNL42 appliance helps to get rid of dust mites, pollen, and pet allergen from your clothes. Also, it has 6-Motion Direct Drive technology to enable various wash programmes.
Another positive aspect of this washing machine is that it senses different fabric types and offers the appropriate wash cycles accordingly.
The advantage of 6-Motion Direct Drive technology is that it moves the wash drum in multiple directions, thereby acting tough on the stubborn stains while taking care of the clothes at the same time.
Apart from the above, there are host of exciting features to look at:
- As the motor directly connects to the drum, this washing machine reduces noise, as well as vibrations.
- This washing machine comes with a heater arrangement to get rid of tough stains and allergens.
- The auto-restart function enables the washing machine to continue from where it left off during a power outage.
- Soaking your clothes for around 15 minutes at 40 degrees C helps to get rid of the germs and allergens.
- The SmartThinQ app helps to diagnose up to 86 errors should anything go wrong with the appliance.
- This machine comes with features like waterproof touch panel and a rustproof body.
Such rich features make this LG appliance as one of the best front loading washing machines to buy in India.
3. Bosch 7.0 Kg Washer – WAK24268IN
Bosch is one of the most popular brand from Germany. They are number 1 washing machine manufacturers in Europe. WAK24268IN washer from Bosch comes with exciting features which are discussed further.
Summary:
– The capacity of 7 Kg to cater to the regular Indian family of three to four members
– High speed of 1200 rpm to ensure lesser drying time
– Super 15 feature to freshen up soiled laundry in 15 minutes
– Energy-efficient washing machine
This front loading washing machine comes with various innovative features to make washing clothes an enjoyable experience. Major technology features are described below:
The Anti-Vibration design is a unique one that reduces vibrations and ensures greater stability. The Variodrum feature comes with a unique design that acts tough on stains while being gentle with your clothes.
The Active Water facility saves water by automatically adjusting the water level using multiple load sensors that sense laundry weight and fabric.
This washing machine is a time saver as well because the SpeedPerfect feature reduces the wash time by around 65%.
The Allergy Plus Programme ensures hygiene of the highest order by eliminating dust mites and other microscopic insects to keep your clothes allergen-free.
Apart from saving water and time, this machine saves energy, as well. This machine does not make much noise. Hence, it is best to use at night. It can work at a low input water pressure of 0.3 bars.
Apart from the above, Reload function enables you to add clothes early during the wash cycle. Also, this machine has a large drum to allow smooth movement of clothes, thereby delivering better washing results.
4. IFB 6.5 Kg Washer – Senorita Aqua SX
IFB has many popular machines for front loading washers segment. This 6.5 kg appliances also comes with host of exciting features, some of which is described further.
Summary:
– 6.5 Kg capacity to cater to small Indian families
– 7-segment LED display to make it user-friendly
– Different kinds of wash care programmes
– Conversion of hard water into soft water to enable a better wash
Other exciting technology features in this appliance is similar to the IFB variant of 8kg capacity described earlier.
The USP of this washing machine is that it offers a total of 100 wash programmes with every kind of fabric or stain having a specific wash programme.
The 3D wash system uses a unique water spray system to create a powerful 360-degree current in the drum. It ensures the dissolving of all detergents during the rinsing period and draws out the dirt with the soap efficiently.
The dynamic movement of the drum forces the water deep into the fabric texture to deliver a cleaner wash.
This washing machine features an Aqua Energie function that comes with a built-in aqua filter to treat hard water. This system converts the bicarbonates in hard water into minute crystals that flow freely along with the wastewater and do not form a layer over the surface of the drum.
The cradle wash system takes care of the delicate clothes such as laces, silk, and chiffon. The express wash system is the ideal wash programme for smarter and lighter loads.
It comes with a crescent moon cast drum to absorb the hard hits during the tumbling process, thereby giving the clothes a deep but gentle wash.
The design ensures that the water curves up in a specific pattern and that the clothes do not rub against the walls of the drum.
Other important technology features include, Foam Control system to maintain the quality of the wash. Also, Ball valve technology to prevent wastage and Child Lock system to prevent tampering by children..
5. Samsung 6.0 Kg Washer – WW60M206LMW/TL
Samsung is one of the leading brands in India for home appliances along with LG and Whirlpool. This 6kg front loading washer comes with interesting features at a competitive price.
Summary:
– 6 Kg capacity makes it an ideal appliance for small families or 2-3 persons
– 1000 rpm speed is perfect for a machine of this capacity
– Digital inverter technology and a user-friendly display
– Ceramic heater prevents calcium build-up.
Samsung offers a 10-year manufacturer warranty on the engine. Also, machine works on a digital inverter motor that does not make much noise because of its low vibration. It also ends up saving electricity. Other major technology features are listed below:
The Volt Control feature eliminates the use of a stabiliser. This feature protects the appliance from sudden voltage surges that are common in the smaller towns and cities in India.
Diamond Drum technology ensures tangle-free washing. The diamond-shaped grooves on the inner surface of the drum separate the clothes to prevent tangling. It also ensures to protect the delicate garments from damage. This diamond drum consists of small water outlets to drain the water quickly.
This washing machine provides a range of wash cycles to suit your busy schedules. You can select wash cycles for as low as 15 minutes to get a quick job.
The presence of the ceramic heater is an advantage because it prevents the build-up of calcium, thereby increasing the overall life of the washing machine.
Apart from the above mentioned technology features, this washing machine gives excellent performance and has an exquisite external appearance with its elegant design exuding a premium feel. The ergonomically designed dial enhances your convenience level.
6. LG 6.0 Kg Inverter Washer – FH0FANDNL02
We have listed many LG washers in our list. This shows why they are one of the top washing machine manufacturers in India. This 6kg LG FH0FANDNL02 washer comes with many exciting features.
Summary:
– 6 Kg capacity that is perfect for small families and individuals
– 1000 rpm spinning speed
– Direct Drive Technology
– 6-motion technology
– Inverter control
– Inbuilt water heater
Like other washing machines from LG listed in this post, this 6kg front loading appliance also comes with host of technology features.
As it works on Direct Drive technology, there is no involvement of belts and pulleys, the areas of significant concern for any washing machine. It also reduces vibration and noise while saving a lot of money on its maintenance.
The waterproof and foolproof touch panel is a seamless design that enables you to operate with wet fingers, as well. The Auto Restart option ensures that the machine will restart from where it left off during a power outage.
The inbuilt water heater system can heat water up to 60 degrees C to remove all kinds of stains and allergens. Diagnosing any issue with the appliance is now easy using the SmartThinQ app that can identify up to 86 errors.
As this appliance has stainless steel drum, it is rust-proof and hence, durable. This washing machine comes with additional safety features like child lock. It allows you to disable the lock settings, whereby your child cannot accidentally tamper with it.
Best Fully Automatic Top Loading Washing Machines
Typically, a top loading washing machine is recommended for ones who have back aches and older people at home. Anyone who has washed clothes with his or her hands will surely appreciate the role played by the washing machine in the house.
A complete guide to buy fully-automatic top loading washing machine will be very handy while doing your search online.
1. IFB 6.5 Kg Washer – TL-RDW
IFB is one of the most popular washing machine brands in India. Some of its front loading machines are top sellers. Additionally, IFB also has this TL-RDW top loading washing machine which is of best quality.
Summary:
– 6.5 Kg capacity to suit medium-sized Indian families
– 720 rpm speed
– Eight water levels
– LED screen display
– 3D Wash and Triadic Pulsator feature
This IFB appliance has range of rich technology features and that makes it one of the exciting machine to buy. Major features of the appliance is listed below:
The 3D wash system of this automatic washing machine soaks clothes thoroughly to deliver a dynamic wash experience. The Deep Clean feature lends a magical feeling, as it acts tough on stains and gentle on your clothes.
It is possible because of the Triadic Pulsator that makes your clothes sparkle. This pulsator removes the stubborn stains using powerful swirl jets of water. The Mechanical Centre Punch action feature pushes the dirt out, thereby leaving your clothes sparklingly clean.
Auto softener dispenser and Bleach Dispenser are two innovative concepts, as well. The Bubble Leveller mechanism ensures that your machine balances perfectly to reduce vibrations, thereby enhancing its overall life.
This washing machine comes with two new concepts, Aqua Energie and Aqua Spa Therapy. Aqua Energie energises the water to dissolve the detergent better and deliver a softer wash. The Aqua Spa Therapy exfoliates and rejuvenates your clothes by cleansing and hydrating each fibre.
Additionally, the Auto Balance function distributes the clothes evenly to maintain consistent washing performance. Aqua Conserve feature reuses the water used for final rinsing to soak clothes, thereby preserving the environmental balance.
2. LG 8.0 Kg Inverter Washer – T9077NEDL1
This is one of the best top loading fully automatic washing machines to buy in India. This appliance from LG comes with exciting features as below:
Summary:
– 8 Kg capacity to suit large families
– 720 rpm speed
– Unique features like smart inverter motor
– Three washing options that save 36% energy
As with all other LG washing machines listed here, this product also comes with exciting technology features. Major such features are listed below:
This top-loading washing machine model features a revolutionary in-built jet-spray mode that lets out powerful jets of water to wash excess dirt and detergent residue from the clothes. This technology ensures that you can do away with the rubbing of cuffs and collars before placing your clothes in the washing machine.
This feature saves nearly 70% of water and 40% energy, making it one of the most efficient appliances in this category.
The machine comes equipped with a stainless steel drum that is not only rust-proof but also eliminates bacteria and germs, thus enhancing its life.
The Turbo Drum and the pulsator rotate in opposite directions to give the most potent wash by removing the toughest stains with ease. The three mini pulsators create water streams in a vertical direction to deliver an even washing experience.
Additionally, Auto Restart option allows the commencement of the sequence from where it left off during a power outage.
3. LG 6.5 Kg Inverter Washer – T7581NDDLG
This is one of the best washing machines from LG in the top loading fully automatic segment. This appliance is of top-notch quality and boasts with exciting technologies that are synonymous with LG brand.
Summary:
– 6.5 Kg capacity, suitable for the present-day Indian household
– 700 rpm speed
– Smart inverter motor
– 3-Smart motion
Let us take a look at major technology features this LP appliances comes with:
This smart inverter motor adjusts the energy consumption depending on the load. It comes with BMC Motor protection that guarantees protection from dust, humidity, and insects.
The Turbo Drum enables a powerful wash as it rotates in the opposite direction to the pulsator, thereby removing the toughest of stains with ease. Besides, the three mini pulsators push the water in a vertical direction to remove dirt and detergent residue.
The stainless steel drum is comparatively more hygienic than the plastic drums, as it discourages the growth of bacteria and germs. The Tub Clean option removes the unpleasant smell by sterilising the inner and outer drums.
Additionally, this machine comes with a smart diagnosis option, SmartThinQ that can diagnose a variety of problems within no time.
Also, this washing machine appliances comes with a safe and smooth door operation that takes its time to close. This appliance features an Auto Restart option to enable the device to continue from where it left off during a power cut situation.
4. Bosch 6.5 Kg Washer – WOE654WOIN
Bosch is a German brand and is known for advanced technologies in manufacturing appliances. True to the brand this washing machine comes with some of the most exciting features.
Summary:
– 6.5 Kg capacity to satisfy the requirements of an average-sized Indian family
– 680 rpm speed
– Features like Power wave wash system and magic filter
– Dual dispenser feature
Bosch is a number 1 washing machine brand in Europe. It brings top-notch technology features to its Indian model as well. Major features are listed below:
The PowerWave Wash System entails the flow of water from three directions, thereby creating powerful waves to remove the most stubborn stains.
The Dynamic Waterflow system works in combination with the PowerWave Wash System to deliver excellent results.
This machine comes with a magic filter to gather the lint and fluff to ensure that your clothes remain clean. This top-loading machine features a dual dispenser design to enable users to use detergent powder or solution depending on their needs.
As this machine is capable of working at water pressures as low as 0.3 bars, it is an ideal one for use in top rise buildings where the water pressure could be comparatively low.
The Bosch washing machine sports an excellent exterior appearance with its aesthetic looks. It is available in six beautiful colour options to suit the interior designing in your house.
This machine is a smart one, as it features a one-touch start option. The appliance chooses the perfect wash programme depending on the load. The Child Locking system is an ideal one to prevent your mischievous little one from tampering with the controls.
5. Haier 5.8 Kg Washer – HWM58-020S
Haier is another popular washing machine brand that comes with very competitive prices. This 5.8kg small sized washer has some exciting features.
Summary:
– 5.8 Kg capacity making it an ideal machine for couples and single individuals
– Spin speeds of up to 700 rpm
– Six wash programs customized according to your needs
– Self-diagnostic feature
This machine features six different types of wash programmes to suit your fabrics. The smart options for spin speed, rinse cycle, quick wash, rinse hold, and half load and drain, making it a convenient machine to use.
Other major technologies included in this appliance is listed below.
The Quadra Flow Pulsator prevents tangling of clothes, thereby ensuring excellent cleaning. This machine features hi-tech sensors that automatically sense the load to decide the washing cycle.
The Quick Wash function enables you to schedule your laundry activities at a later time at your convenience. This machine comes with a Digital Display that updates every process of the wash cycle and makes it easy for the user.
The stainless steel drum can withstand high spin speeds, thereby making it ideal for regular use. The plastic exterior ensures that the machine has a rust-free body. It also enables you to clean it and maintain the required hygiene standards.
Additionally, the Memory Backup feature ensures that the machine resumes washing from wherever it stopped due to power outage.
6. LG 6.2 Kg Inverter Washer – T7281NDDLG/T7288NDDLG/GD
LG is one of the top most brands in India for washing machines. LG 6.2 Kg model comes with many exciting features.
Summary:
– 6.2 Kg capacity that is ideal for small families and single bachelors
– 700 rpm speed
– Smart Inverter technology to reduce vibrations and power usage
– Innovative features
Some of the major technology features of this LG washing machine appliance is listed below.
The smart inverter motor can adjust the electricity consumption depending on the load. The BMC Motor Protection feature provides immunity from corrosion, humidity, dust, and insects.
This machine comes with a Smart Diagnosis feature where the SmartThinQ app detects and diagnoses more than 80 problems. The stainless steel drum is an advantage because it is rust-proof and does not encourage the accumulation of bacteria and germs.
The Turbo Drum feature ensures to remove the toughest of stains as it rotates in the opposite direction to the pulsator to provide an agitated flow.
The three mini pulsators create water streams in the vertical direction to eliminate the dirt from every fibre and ensure a 100% clean wash.
This washing machine features a Tub Clean Option to ensure that there is no soap or dirt residue after a washing cycle. It sterilises the inside and outside portions of the tub to eliminate any unpleasant smell.
The Smart Closing Door is another excellent feature that does not result in the swift banging of the door. It works gradually to prevent damage and injury.
Best Semi-Automatic Top-Loading Washing Machines
In spite of many people gravitating towards the fully automatic machines, there is an available clientele for these semi-automatic models as well. A complete guide to buy semi-automatic washing machine will be very handy while doing your search online.
1. Whirlpool 7.2 Kg Washer S– Ace Supreme Plus
Whirlpool manufactures some of the best semi-automatic washing machines. It is one of the early brands that became very popular with Indian middle class.
Summary:
– 7.2 Kg capacity top-loading machines to cater to medium-sized families
– Lint filter system to eliminate lint and fluff from clothes
– Ace Wash Station
– Multi-utility tray
Whirlpool semi-automatic machine comes with many exciting features.
The Ace Supreme Plus is one of the best semi-automatic washing machines in India today. It comes with exciting features like Ace Wash Station. This feature allows you to sort, stack, and carry your clothes on the machine itself.
There is no need to have separate containers. It becomes handy, as the semi-automatic mode requires you to transfer the clothes from the washtub to the spin tub.
This washing machine comes with an impeller system that agitates the water perfectly to ensure a clean wash every time. It does not have a separate pulsator, but the impeller provides the ideal motion for cleaning the clothes.
The multi-utility tray helps to sort out and carry the clothes. This tray comes with a unique vent that enables water to flow back into the washtub. Also the lint filter arrangement is an excellent one, as it enables the machine to collect the lint and fluff from the clothes. It ensures that the clothes remain clean.
2. LG 6.5 Kg Washer – P7550R3FA
LG semi-automatic washing machine is highly durable and performance is as good as the brand value of LG.
Summary:
– 6.5 Kg Capacity that is suitable for mid-size families
– 1300 rpm speed
– Three wash programs
– Lint Collector and other useful accessories
The LG semi-automatic washing machine comes with a roller jet pulsator to deliver an excellent washing experience. This pulsator enhances the flow of water by rotating quickly. The higher the number of rotations, the better is the friction.
This machine features three wash programmes, gentle, normal, and strong. You can choose the ideal one you want, depending on your requirements.
It comes with attachments like collar scrubber for cleaning the stubborn dirt from collars. Therefore, there is no necessity for using the brush to remove dirt from such inaccessible places. The collar scrubber can also prove useful to remove dirt from cuffs, as well.
The Air Dry feature ensures to dry your clothes by nearly 40% before you hang them out in the sun.
The lint collector is another crucial accessory, as it helps to remove the fibres sticking to your washing machine’s pipe. This collector collects all the lint during the wash cycle. You can conveniently remove the attachment and get rid of the debris.
This washing machine is unique because it comes with a spin shower to wash away the leftover soap from your clothes to make them sparklingly clean.
3. Samsung 7.2Kg Washer – WT725QPNDMP
Samsung is a trusted brand for manufacturing semi-automatic washing machines in India. It is on par with other popular brands – LG and Whirlpool.
Summary:
– 7.2 Kg capacity, ideal for a family of four to five persons
– 1000rpm spin speed
– Three wash programmes
– Buzzer facility
This semi-automatic top-loading washing machine comes with excellent features. It is very elegant looking machine and also very easy to move around in the house.
This washing machine features three wash programmes, normal, intensive, and delicate. The Dual jet system ensures to improve the washing effectiveness by shooting vertical jets of water. It prevents the clothes from falling on the pulsator, thereby preventing any tangles.
The EZ Wash Tray enables you to stack and sort the clothes while transferring them to the spin tube. It also serves as the ideal scrubbing pad to remove the stubborn dirt from collars and cuffs. Thus, you can scrub your clothes gently without disturbing the washing process.
This machine features accessories like lint collector to collect the lint and other foreign substances from your clothes for a clean wash. The Air Turbo Drying System lets go a blast of warm air to dry your clothes by nearly 40%.
Ultimate Guide to Buy Washing Machines in India
This guide should help you understand various features when you plan to buy a washing machine. Many common questions from popular brands to major washing machine technologies is explained in the following sections..
What are the best washing machine brands in India?
What are the popular washing machine brands in India? Even before that does brand matters while buying washing machines? Let us check these questions in more details.
We have posted our views on importance of brand while buying an air conditioner, similar things have to be considered here as well. You need to understand various features of the appliance instead of just sticking with any particular brand.
That said, lets take a look at popular washing brands available in India.
- LG: When it comes to electronics items, you always find LG at the top of the heap. This is mainly because LG knows the pulse of the Indian market and understands the Indian customer better than the others do.
- IFB: A leading overseas brand, IFB has also arrived in India with a bang. They can give tough competition to the other international brands like Bosch and Siemens.
- Whirlpool: Some of the most durable washing machines have come from the Whirlpool stable.
- Samsung: You cannot leave this electronic giant behind when you discuss electronic appliances. They have their own place in the market.
These are some of the most popular ones. Apart from this there are other popular names such as Samsung, Bosch, Godrej, Onida etc.
Semi-Automatic vs Fully Automatic washers
Below table gives complete comparison of all different types of washing machines for a quick glance. With this, you can make a wise decision on buying a best washing machine online.
| Feature | Semi Automatic | Top Loading Agitator | Top Loading Impeller | Front Loading |
| Capacity | 4-8 Kg | 5.5-6 Kg | 5.5-10 Kg | 5-8 Kg |
| Wash Quality | Average | Good | Good | Excellent |
| Delicate Clothes | Ok | Rough | Good | Excellent |
| Wash Cycle | Fastest | Fast | Fast | Slow |
| Hot Wash | No | Some | Some | All |
| Space Required | More | Less | Less | Less |
| Easily Movable | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Water Connection | Not required | Required | Required | Required with pressure |
Front Load vs Top Load Machines
In the top load machines, you load clothes into the washing drum from the top. Usually, you find people from the Western countries preferring the front load machines whereas Indian people prefer the top-loading ones.
The front loading machines are fully automatic machines whereas you have semi-automatic machines in the top load machines in addition to the fully automatic ones.
Water consumption
One has to concede that the front load machines use less water in comparison to the top load ones.
This is because you need lots of water to soak clothes. The front loading machines work with a tumbling action thereby requiring less amount of water for soaking purposes. However, the front load machines have longer cycles when you compare them with the top load machines.
Energy efficiency
The front load washing machines run for longer periods, but at a comparatively slower speed. Hence, they are more energy efficient as compared to the top loading machines.
Semi automatic vs Fully Automatic
| Semi Automatic Washing Machine | Fully Automatic Washing Machine |
|---|---|
| You need to manually fill water, rinse, dry clothes | Your intervention is not needed |
| Need to move clothes from washing compartment to drying. | Every thing is automatic including wash, rinse, dry. |
| One can see some stains left on the cloth after wash | No stains are left after the wash |
| Need to rub the clothes with scrub after wash | No need to do any scrubing |
Washing machine technologies
With ever increasing research on technologies, washing machine’s have adopted newer and more efficient features. Latest being addition of artificial intelligence. However, let us explore some of the more known features of washing machines.
Washing machine – Inverter technology
Inverter Technology enables the machines to run at a speed optimum to the load. Because of this appliance will run efficiently and save power. This is helpful if you have to use UPS during power cuts.
In the absence of inverter technology, your washing machine has a motor that is capable of running at a fixed load. Hence, it performs at the optimum level only when you have this particular load.
In the case of the Inverter technology, you have the machine running at variable speeds that is optimum for the load you have at a particular time.
Inverter technology has a special electronic circuit that determines the speed of the motor based on the load. Therefore you end up saving lot of power because you do not have the same load every day. In summary, this technology will help to save electricity.
Washing machine – Direct drive technology
In the conventional washing machines, you have movable parts like gears and belts. Whenever you use these parts, there is a lot of friction involved. This can affect the efficiency of the appliance.
However, in case of Direct Drive Technology there is no such movable parts thereby resulting in the elimination of friction and thus saving electricity.
On the other hand, Direct Drive technology based motors can be heavier than the conventional motors. However, they have a greater degree of efficiency and they produce less noise as well. Today, you have some manufacturers using a combination of both Inverter and direct drive technology.
Along with inverter technology, this feature can make lot of difference in terms of efficiency and will save significant amount power.
Washing machine – Flexwash & TwinWash technology
Washing machines mostly differ in two technologies. How would it be if you have a washing machine that combines the benefits of both the technologies –
- front loading
- top loading
Answer is yes, check the Flexwash feature by Samsung.
This feature gives the flexibility of using both the designs in a single machine. The main front loader machine has a capacity of 21 Kg whereas you have a miniature top loading facility as well with a capacity of 3.5 Kg. This enables you to wash the heavy laundry items like bed sheets, blankets, and curtains as well as the delicate items like handkerchiefs, socks, and lingerie together in two different modes.
LG has also adopted this technique and has introduced the TwinWash facility that has two individual drums in its latest range of washing machines.
Twinwash technology involves the use of two separate drums, the main drum with a capacity of 20 Kg for cleaning heavy laundry and a mini section below the main drum for washing the smaller items like scarfs and inner garments.
Washing machine – EcoBubble and O2 Wash
It is important not to damage the fabric while washing them. One way of ensuring the same is to unleash the power of bubbles in cleaning clothes. You have this facility in most of the washing machines that have hot water cycles.
Electronic giants like IFB and Samsung have introduced this technique in machines using cold water as well. Indians use cold water while for washing their laundry items.
Samsung has pioneered the EcoBubble technology that converts the detergent particles into bubbles. These bubbles inflate around the clothes and penetrate the fabric to remove the most stubborn of dirt particles.
IFB has its own version f this technology called O2 Wash. Here where you can see the same technology in action.
Washing machine – 6-Motion DD and Wave Motion
Companies like LG, Samsung, and IFB have come up with specific technologies to achieve a gamut of cleaning styles to suit different types of fabric.
Different kinds of fabrics require different motion technologies to get an optimum wash.
- 6-Motion DD technology by LG: This feature has the following six wash motion types namely, Tumble, Stepping, Scrubbing, Swing, Rolling, and Filtration. You find this unique combination in LG’s premium range of models.
- SoftMove technology by Whirlpool: This feature enables the machine to sense the load inside the drum and use the appropriate program based on the type of fabric loaded inside.
It uses the following types of motion technology, Energetic wash, Soft cradle, Power Shower, and Slow Motion depending in the fabric you load into the machine.
- IFB technology: They have engineered the different types of wash styles like Air Bubble Wash, 3600 wash, Cradle wash, Steam wash, and O2 wash.
Washing machine – Soaking technologies
Way in which cloths soaked determines amount of dirt removed as well as quality of wash. To make it better leading manufacturers have come up with special soaking technologies.
BubbleSoak technology: This feature from Samsung helps the machine to eliminate the dirt by soaking the clothes in bubbles with a press of a button. The advantage of this technique is that the soft bubbles do not damage the fabric.
SuperSoak: This feature from Whirlpool ensures the removal of tough stains as it activates the incessant soaking and scrubbing motion.
Eco Drum Cleaning technology: This feature by Samsung sanitizes the drum by eliminating the harmful allergens. They use a special technique whereby it removes the residue from the diaphragm through drum sanitization.
This system makes use of hot water and powerful jet streams. You can find these features in the higher end models. In addition to sanitizing the drum, this technique can increase the effectiveness of the detergents.
Innovative Drum technologies in washers
Drum is a critical part of any washing machine. A good quality drum will give you a high-quality wash every time without damaging the fabric. Therefore, design of the drum has to play an important role in this endeavor.
Manufacturers have their own type of drum designs.
Bosch uses a unique type of technology in its drum designing. Known as the VarioDrum technology, you can observe the diverse movements of the paddle as the drum changes its spinning direction.
As it spins in one direction, the machine employs the flat side of the paddle for cleaning the loaded clothes. When it changes its spinning direction, the steep side of the paddle comes into the picture by delivering a profound cleaning experience with its unique wave-droplet design.
Siemens uses a similar technology to the one used by Bosch. This technology ensures that it takes great care of the laundry.
Samsung employs the Diamond Drum technology in its top loading machines. These drums have 25% smaller holes. These holes are located inside a diamond-shaped depression that prevents the clothes from sticking out of the drum thereby ensuring its safety.
The smaller water exit holes can help protect the longevity of the fabric. The embossed washboard minimizes the exposure of the textile areas to the harmful effects of washing.
Built-in heaters in Washing machines
Western countries use hot water technology in their front loading machines. This ensures to remove dirt easily. Until very recently, Indian washing machine manufacturers had not used this technology in their machines. However, you have companies like Samsung and Whirlpool coming with innovative technologies to fulfill this need.
- Samsung: The front loading machines manufactured by Samsung come with ceramic heaters that have the tendency to prevent the build-up of stubborn calcium salts. As they have a quick heating capacity, these heaters are very effective in reducing the electricity consumption as well.
- Whirlpool is the only Indian manufacturer that offers this facility in the top loading machines in the Indian market. These machines are capable of heating water up to 600C thereby ensuring the removal of the most stubborn stains.
Noise reduction and Anti-vibration technologies
Noise and vibration in air conditioners as well as washing machines is one aspect that might break the buyers decision. For consumers, the noise as well as the vibration generated by washing machines has always been one of the major problems.
The manufacturers are coming up with improved technology to reduce as much noise and vibration as possible.
- Samsung has introduced its latest technology, VRT+ (Vibration Reduction Technology Plus), an improvement of the existing VRT. This is a useful technology because of the presence of noise-sensitive light sleepers. It strives to keep the noise levels and the vibration at the lowest. The vibration levels are at its maximum during the spin cycle. Read more on this from the manufacturer.
- Bosch has introduced the Ant vibration technology that aims to eliminate vibrations by employing high-tech sensors. They help in maintaining the load balance by adjusting the drum motion.
Tackling hard water
Using hard water for cloth wash does not yield best results. Many parts of India has this problem of having to use hard water for wash. There are couple of major problems with using hard water:
- The problem with hard water is that it becomes difficult to dissolve the detergents in it.
- Secondly, you also end up with deposits of salt around the drum and supply pipes resulting in choking them.
To address this problem, washing machine manufacturers employ innovative techniques such as the ones listed below.
- Whirlpool has a specific ‘Hard Water’ option in its latest semi-automatic machine series, Ace. This option allows eliminating dirt from the clothes even when the water is hard.
- IFB: The present generation of IFB machines comes with a unique Aqua Energie technology that enables it to convert the hard water to soft water. The models come equipped with Aqua filter that helps to break the salts like bicarbonates in the hard water into fine crystals.
The small size of the crystals enables the blending of these crystals with the flow of water. This prevents the accumulation of scale on the critical machine parts thereby preventing its choking.
- Maytag has introduced this technology in its front-loading machines whereby these machines adjust its performance depending on the hardness of the water.
Auto dispensing solutions
It is important to use right amount of detergent to make the washing efficient and of good quality.
- Less detergent can affect the quality of the cleaning.
- At the same time, a higher level of detergent can increase the requirement of water. There can be occurrences of discoloration and emission of bad odor if you use less detergent.
Therefore, the manufacturers have started providing auto dispensing options in their higher end washing machines today.
- Whirlpool comes equipped with the Auto Detergent Dosage technology that determines the quantity of detergent to use based on the load as well as the degree of soiling.
- The washing machines have become smart today with manufacturers like Bosch using iDOS technology in its latest Series 6 and 8 machines.
This system evaluates the hardness of water and soiling of clothes and determines the right quantity of detergents thereby ensuring optimum usage.
Smart technology
Whole world is adopting artificial intelligence in every field and every appliance. Washing machines are not far from this. They are getting smarter with the introduction of various innovative features.
NFC tags
The latest LG machines come equipped with Near Field Communication (NFC) tags that enable diagnosis and monitoring.
This facility helps in synchronizing the washing machine with the smartphone having Smart Diagnosis app.
This app enables the user to know if there is an issue with the washing machine. It then proceeds to educate the user by providing troubleshooting guidance.
Smart app
Similarly, Samsung offers this facility to users enabling them to control their washing machines from their smartphones using a Smart Control app. You get the status of the machine at any time. You can also solve problems concerning the machine over the phone itself.
How to decide washing machine capacity for your family?
Washing machine capacity depends on the number of people are in your family. Washing machine capacity is measured in kilograms. Capacity is directly linked with weight of the clothes that you are planning to wash. Some clothes are lightweight but takes much space such as blanket, whereas some other clothes, height weight but takes little space like jeans.
It is advisable that, fill the drum one of the third only so that clothes can move easily and gives better wash quality. So for buying a washing machine, if you need more details on the size, refer to below chart.
| Family size | Approximate capacity | Number of clothes |
|---|---|---|
| Single person or couples | 6kg | 2 shirts2 jeans1 bedsheet2 small towels2 pillowcases |
| Family of 3 members | 7kg | 3 shirts3 jeans1 bedsheet2 small towels2 pillowcases |
| Family of 4 members | 8kg | 4 shirts3 jeans1 bedsheet3 small towels3 pillowcases |
| Large family | 10+kg | 3 shirts3 jeans2 bedsheet6 small towels6 pillowcases |
Over to You
As said in the beginning, washing machines are necessary appliances in most of the homes. But with increasing technology innovation, available features and models vary a lot. One needs to thoroughly understand nuances before making a purchase decision.
This post should give you enough details to be smarter. Check the details here, verify product homes pages and share with us your findings. We will be glad to hear your feedback.
