Washing machines are true life savers to every family who shudders at the thought of manually washing heaps of dirty clothes. These electric appliances have come a long way since their invention – from being basic cleaning machines to turning into smart gadgets with intelligent technologies. Today, you can explore a wide range of new washing machines with many working modes, features and benefits that will amaze you.
This article will educate you about the basics of washing machines, like types of washing machines and their differences, a buyer guide and a list of the 10 top and best washing machines in India with reviews and ratings.
Different Types of Washing Machines:
The key functionality of washing machines is to wash soiled clothes, remove stains and make them hygienic. However, the washing process varies from model to model to deliver different standards of outcome and benefits. For instance, some models wash clothes in hot water or steam for better anti-microbial protection and effective stain removal.
Learning about these different types of washing machines will give us an insight into the choices available in the market:
- Front Loading Washing Machines: These washers have a horizontal axis design, and clothes are loaded through a door on the front side. They use less water and detergent and deliver better washing results.
- Top Loading Washing Machines: These machines have a vertical axis design, and the clothes are loaded into the tub from the top side, which usually has a hinged door. Top-loading washers consume more water and soap but are more economical than front-load machines.
- Semi-Automatic Washing Machines: These washers are single-tub or twin-tub machines to wash and dry clothes. The user can pause or start during the cycle without disturbing the wash quality. You can also control the amount of water used, the time of wash cycles, etc.
- Fully-Automatic Washing Machines: These washers are entirely controlled by pre-built programs and start the cycle with a button. The sensors gauge the load, draw the desired amount of water, and source detergent and fabric softeners from the pre-loaded slots. They reduce manual labour and independently perform the cycle from wash to dry. You can choose different modes and settings to control the times and water quantity only at the beginning of the cycle.
- Integrated Washing Machines: These washing machines are “integrated” into your cupboards or kitchen units, allowing only the loading door to be visible. Typically, only front-load machines work well for this integration due to the horizontal build.
- Stacked Washing Machines: Commercial washers and dryers, which occupy a lot of space, are stacked on top of each other to save space. These washers are highly efficient, and even the drying quality is top-notch. However, they are expensive and consume a lot of electricity.
- Portable Washing Machines: These compact washers come in electric and manual models. You can carry them anywhere and fit them neatly into your closets. These washers are meant for small loads and often come with a dryer basket.
- Washer and Dryer Combo Machines: These machines combine washers and dryers into one appliance to reduce manual labour. They are usually full-automatic washers that do not require shifting wet clothes from the washer to the dryer tub. Everything happens in the same tub with pre-programmed options to wash, rinse and dry.
How to Choose the Best Washing Machine in India?
Walk into any electric appliance store, and you will be bombarded with many models, each claiming to be the best washing machine in the Indian market. But you have to decide which one best suits your needs and budget.
Read this mini-guide, which explains some of the important things to consider before buying a washing machine in India:
1. Top Load or Front Load:
Most people get confused at this step, which involves deciding between a front load and a top load. Let us give you some insights to simplify your decision-making process.
Top load washers are ergonomically better, not requiring bending or lowering your back to load the machine. They are compact-sized and come as tall, vertical machines that fit well in balconies and store rooms. The cleaning output is good but not great, especially with heavily soiled clothes and stubborn stains. These washers also consume more water and detergent. They are reasonably priced, which is a major selling point.
Front load washers are great in terms of their looks and performance. They consume less water and detergent. They work well for modular kitchens and cupboards, as the opening is on the front side, and the rest of the body can sit inside the space. These washers are expensive and involve bending down to load. Since they are wider than top-load washers, fitting them into compact balconies may not be feasible.
2. Semi-Automatic or Fully Automatic:
Semi-automatic machines require less water, which makes them ideal for areas with water shortages. They give full control of the wash cycle and let you pause or start a process whenever possible. On the flip side, they are only ‘semi-automatic’, meaning they involve some manual work. Most semi-automatic washers come as two tubs – washer and dryer. You must manually transfer the clothes from the washer tub to the dryer tub and turn the cycle on.
Fully automatic machines can complete a full wash cycle at the touch of a button. They consume excess water and cannot be paused or altered in between the wash cycle. These washers do not involve manual work except for selecting the modes at the beginning of the process.
3. Washing Machine Capacity:
The capacity of the washing machine refers to the machine’s load capacity, like 5kgs, 6kgs, 6.5kgs, 7kgs etc. To simplify matters, capacity refers to the weight of dry clothes that a machine can take in a single load. So, a washing machine with 5 kgs indicates that it can take 5 kgs of dry clothes in a single load.
Depending on your family size, you can use different capacities to cater to the volume of clothes. A 5-7 kg capacity is suitable for a small family of 2-4 people, while a bigger family of more than 8 members must go for a 10kg capacity washer. So, keep this aspect in mind before you shortlist a model.
4. Material of the Drum:
Washer drums come in different materials like plastic, stainless steel, ceramic, etc. If you want better durability, then go for stainless steel drums. They are expensive but worth it!
5. Pre-Soak Options:
Many washing machines have a pre-soak option that lets you soak the soiled clothes in detergent water for a desired period for better stain removal. This option is a must-have if you have kids or elders who always spill food on their clothes.
6. Wash Settings:
Most washers vary in this aspect, leading to different laundry experiences. Always check if the washer offers different modes like quick, heavy, delicate, steam or hot water rinse, etc. These modes will give you better outcomes with their custom programs for different materials and soil levels.
7. Energy Efficiency:
Always go for BEE 5 Star or 4 Star rating washing machines, which offer the best energy efficiency and highest savings on electricity bills. You can see the sticks on the machines, which indicate their star ratings.
8. Budget:
Everything boils down to the budget you have. Set a max. Budget limit and shortlist the models that fall under that price range. You can slightly extend your budget if you find the features in the higher segment worth it.
Fully Automatic vs Semi-Automatic Washing Machines:
In case you are still wondering about the main differences between fully automatic and semi-automatic washing machines, this section makes for a good read:
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Fully Automatic Washing Machines:
As the name suggests, these machines are run by automated programs to perform different operations like washing, rinsing and drying. You must simply turn on the machine, choose a mode and click the start button to begin the process. Once the cycle starts, you can only pause it for some time but cannot add more clothes in between.
Fully automated washing machines are expensive, require a direct water connection, and consume much water and detergent. On the brighter side, they are more energy-efficient and effective at removing stains. These washers are also compact-sized and can fit in narrow spaces.
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Semi Automatic Washing Machines:
These machines usually have two tubs for washing and drying. You can directly pour water into the tub with a bucket or use a direct water connection, depending on the water resources in your area. The water consumption is less, and you get better control of programming water cycles. They are also priced less than fully automatic washers.
On the flip side, semi-automatic washers manually shift wet clothes to the dryer tub. They are bulky and need more space. The effectiveness of wash is also moderate, and their energy efficiency is low.
Front-Load vs Top-Load Washing Machines:
Let us now understand the main differences between front-load and top-load washers:
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Front Load Washing Machines:
These washers have a horizontal axis with a door on the front to load clothes. They use friction to clean the clothes and hence require less water. The tumble motion is very effective at cleaning clothes, and the movements are quite gentler, thus reducing the chances of tears. The spinning speeds are also quite high, which helps expel more water from clothes and reduces drying time.
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Top Load Washing Machines:
These washers have a vertical axis with a hinged door on the top for loading clothes. Top load washers use an agitator, a tall spindle in the middle of the drum that runs back and forth or an impeller, a cone with small discs to rub clothes against each other (imitating a hand rub).
Top-load washers use a lot of water to make the clothes float. Thus, water consumption is high. The chances of damage to clothes are higher in top loads as they use more aggressive movements with the impeller or agitator. However, they are more energy-efficient and affordable than front-load washers.
10 Top and Best Washing Machines In India 2024:
Let us now explore the details of the 10 latest and best washing machines from trusted brands:
1. LG 7 Kg 5 Star Semi-Automatic Top Loading Washing Machine (P7020NGAZ, Dark Gray, Wind Jet Dry):
This is a great option if you are looking for a budget-friendly washing machine under the 15000 INR range. The best semi-automatic washing machine has a 7 Kg load capacity, ideal for small to medium-sized families. It has washing and drying options in two separate tubs and consumes less water and electricity. The 1300 RPM spin tub speeds the drying process to wring out every drop of water from your clothes. Go for it if you are okay with some manual efforts while using the machine.
Product Specifications:
- Brand: LG
- Colour: Dark Grey
- Capacity: 7Kg
- Dimensions: 47 x 79.5 x 97.5 Centimeters
- Weight: 33 Kgs
- Access Location: Top Load
- Warranty: 2 Years
Pros:
- It has 3 Wash programs – gentle, normal and strong to suit different soil levels.
- A dryer is very efficient at removing water drops from the clothes.
- Has collar scrubber technology.
- The lint collector collects lint and fabrics to prevent blockage of the pipeline.
- Has a rat-repellent chemical and a 3mm thick plastic base.
- Affordable pricing for its great features.
Cons:
- The machine’s door comes as a separate piece, susceptible to breakages.
Ratings: 4.3/5
2. Godrej 6 Kg 5 Star Fully-Automatic Top Loading Washing Machine (WTEON 600 AD 5.0 ROGR, Grey, Acu Wash Drum):
Check out this budget-friendly, fully automatic washing machine from Godrej, which combines affordability with efficiency. The 5-star-rated top load washer has a 6 Kg capacity, ideal for small to medium-sized families. The washer offers superior wash quality and a 700 RPM drying mode to remove water droplets from clothes. It has 9 wash programs and an auto-balance system to eliminate heavy vibrations.
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Godrej
- Colour: Grey
- Capacity: 7Kg
- Dimensions: 56.5 x 56.5 x 91 Centimeters
- Weight: 29.5 Kgs
- Access Location: Top Load
- Warranty: 2 Years
Pros:
- Sleek and elegant look.
- Affordable pricing.
- Comes with a turbo clean feature and a pre-soak option.
- Easy to operate the control panel and display panel.
- Vibrations are less when compared to other washers in the segment.
- Turbo 6 Pulsator has 6 ridges for the better dirt removal.
- Child lock and a quick wash of 29 minutes.
Cons:
- Very noisy in the dryer mode.
Ratings: 4.3/5
[See More: Best Liquid Detergents]
3. Samsung 6.0 Kg Inverter 5 Star Fully-Automatic Front Loading Washing Machine (WW60R20GLMA/TL, White, Hygiene Steam):
This latest front-load washing machine from Samsung is among the best-rated in the market. The fully automatic washer offers superior wash quality and better energy and water efficiency. It has a 6 Kg load capacity, ideal for a family of 2-4 people. The dryer is quite efficient in this appliance with its 1000 rpm spin speed. There are 10 wash programs and a hygienic steam wash for anti-microbial protection – just what we want when living with a virus!
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Samsung
- Colour: White
- Capacity: 6Kgs
- Dimensions: 45 x 60 x 85 Centimeters
- Weight: 54 Kgs
- Access Location: Front Load
- Warranty: 3 Years
Pros:
- Sophisticated looks and a sturdy body.
- Has hygienic steam technology for better wash quality.
- Offers a 15-minute quick wash option.
- Inbuilt digital inverter technology for less noise and better performance.
- Faster drying due to 1000 rpm dryer rotation.
- Ceramic heater with anti-scaling coating.
- Child lock and delay end for better safety and control.
Cons:
- The Inlet pipe is very short, and the extension pipe needs to be purchased separately.
Ratings: 4.4/5
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4. Whirlpool 7.5 Kg 5 Star Fully-Automatic Top Loading Washing Machine with In-Built Heater (STAINWASH PRO H 7.5, Grey):
When it comes to the best washing machine brands in India, Whirlpool tops the list. This best-rated, fully automatic, top-load washing machine offers a 7.5-load capacity to cater to medium-sized families. The key highlight is its in-built heater with 3 hot water modes for superior stain removal and anti-microbial protection. By selecting the right mode, the best heater machine promises to remove even 48-hour-old stains, a must for families with messy toddlers.
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Whirlpool
- Colour: Grey
- Capacity: 7.5Kg
- Dimensions: 54 x 58 x 102.5 Centimeters
- Weight: 32 Kgs
- Access Location: Top Load
- Warranty: 2 Years
Pros:
- Looks stylish and modern.
- Has an inbuilt heater technology for a hot water wash.
- 12 Wash programs for better customization.
- Soft Close Lid to prevent damage.
- Dynamix technology for better mixing of detergent and water.
- The LED display panel gives a premium experience.
- 3 hot water modes – warm, hot and allergen with varying degrees of temp.
Cons:
- No lint collector box.
- It needs a stabilizer in areas with power fluctuations, as no inverter technology exists.
Ratings: 4.2/5
5. IFB 8 Kg 5 Star Fully-Automatic Front Loading Washing Machine with Power Steam (Senator WSS Steam, Silver, Inbuilt Heater, Aqua Energie Water Softener):
IFB is one of the best Indian brands for front-loading washing machines. Here is an 8 Kg fully automatic, front-loading washing machine that can cater to large families. It packs in some amazing features like cradle wash for delicate clothes, laundry adds for adding additional clothes after the cycle has started, water softener, etc. The stainless steel crescent moon drum prevents fabric damage, while the 3D wash system ensures the best quality wash.
Product Specifications:
- Brand: IFB
- Colour: Silver
- Capacity: 8Kg
- Dimensions: 59 x 59 x 84 Centimeters
- Weight: 75 Kgs
- Access Location: Front Load
- Warranty: 4 Years
Pros:
- Advanced wash system with dynamic water sprays and jets for a better wash.
- Aqua Energie’s feature ensures detergent is completely dissolved in water.
- Has an in-built heater for hot water washing.
- Laundry adds the option that lets you add clothes in the middle of a cycle.
- Crescent moon drum to prevent damage to clothes.
- 14 wash programs for better customization of wash cycles.
- Ball valve technology that retains detergent to prevent wastage.
- Child lock feature for safety.
- Drying efficiency is 70-80% with a 1400 rpm drier.
Cons:
- Electricity bills can go up with heat options.
Ratings: 4.3/5
6. Bosch 8 kg 5 Star Inverter Touch Control Fully Automatic Front Loading Washing Machine with In-built Heater (WAJ2426MIN, White):
This front-load washing machine from Bosch blends style with performance to give you an unparalleled washing experience. The 8 Kg washer comfortably caters to the laundry needs of a family of 4-6 people. It packs impressive features like the built-in heater, 15 wash programs, LED display panel, anti-tangle function and a 1200 RPM spinning drum for better drying. It does come with a BEE 5-star rating, a mark of better energy efficiency.
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Bosch
- Colour: White
- Capacity: 8Kg
- Dimensions: 59 x 59.8 x 84.8 Centimeters
- Weight: 71.4 Kgs
- Access Location: Front Load
- Warranty: 2 Years
Pros:
- It has an anti-wrinkle feature to minimize wrinkles on clothes.
- Up to 65% quick wash cycle option to save water and energy.
- Anti-vibration side walls to reduce noise and excessive movement.
- Vario drum that prevents tears and damage to clothes.
- Easy to operate the touch panel.
- 9% bacteria reduction with steam wash.
Cons:
- The normal cycle also maintains a warm temperature, which might not suit all fabrics.
Ratings: 4.4/5
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7. Panasonic 7 Kg 5 Star Built-In Heater Fully-Automatic Top Loading Washing Machine (NA-F70AH9MRB, Middle Free Silver, Active Foam System):
If you want the best top-load, fully automatic washing machine for large families, go for this model. The Panasonic 7 kg washing machine offers impeccable comfort with its vertical build. It is 5-star rated, indicating its high energy efficiency. There are great features like a built-in heater, active foam technology for dissolving dirt and eco aqua beat, which generates a powerful water beat effect. The below 25,000 price range makes it all the more irresistible.
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Panasonic
- Colour: Light Grey
- Capacity: 7Kg
- Dimensions: 58.5D x 52.5W x 95H Centimeters
- Weight: 30 Kgs
- Access Location: Top Load
- Warranty: 2 Years
Pros:
- A sleek body that fits into compact spaces.
- Effective removal of stains and germs.
- Comes with 10 wash programs.
- Fine foam technology lifts even stains and dirt.
- Offers 28% water saving with shower rinse.
- Slots for detergent and fabric softener.
- The water beat effect offers superior wash quality.
- Has lint filters.
- Sazanami drum for gentle washing and powerful spin.
Cons:
- Customers reported no major cons.
Ratings: 4.6/5
8. LG AI Direct Drive Washer with Steam & TurboWash, FHV1409ZWP, 9.0Kg:
The LG ThinQ simplifies your laundry process and makes it much more convenient with AI’s power. It has a smart remote control lets you operate the washer from any corner of your home. It even has a download cycle that lets you download up to 20 additional wash programs to gain better control. The steam and turbo wash features ensure 99.9% germ protection and effective stain removal. The overall design and quality of the material make this washer a worthwhile investment.
Product Specifications:
- Brand: LG
- Colour: Platinum Silver
- Capacity: 9Kg
- Dimensions: 56.5 x 56.5 x 85 Centimeters
- Weight: 48 Kgs
- Access Location: Front Load
- Warranty: 2 Years
Pros:
- Rated as the Best front-load washing machine with AI control.
- Comes with a remote control for easy operation.
- Elegant design with a metallic finish.
- Jetspray feature directly sprays on clothes for effective stain removal.
- Has lesser vibrations and minimal noise levels.
- Leaves no soap residue on clothes.
Cons:
- Expensive (falls in the 40k price segment)
Ratings: 4.7/5
9. Lloyd 8.0 Kg Fully-automatic Top Load Washing Machine (Insta Wash, LWMT80GMBEH, Mid Black, Anti-Bacteria (Heater), Energy saver, Stain remover):
With its advanced technology, the Lloyd Instawash washing machine delivers a superior laundry experience. This model has an ultra-cube pulsator, which delivers tangle-free laundry and prevents turbulence in the tub. The ultra-drum design creates a 360-degree spray to move and toss the clothes and dissolve the detergent well in water. The low-pressure technology lets your washer perform well even when the water pressure levels go low.
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Lloyd
- Colour: Mid Black
- Capacity: 8Kg
- Dimensions: 55.2D x 54.2W x 101H Centimeters
- Weight: 36 Kgs
- Access Location: Top Load
- Warranty: 2 years on product, 10 years on motor
Pros:
- Best ‘Made in India’ washing machine option under Rs.20,000.
- Comprises many advanced features for better wash quality.
- Ensures steady water flow and effective draining of water.
- Child locks for safety and prevention of program altering in between cycles.
- Ultra-cube technology prevents the tangling of clothes.
- Works even in areas with low water pressure levels.
Cons:
- Inlet and outlet pipes are small and may need an extension.
Ratings: 4.3/5
10. Samsung 8 Kg 5 Star Inverter, Hygiene Steam Fully-Automatic Front Loading Washing Machine (WW80T4040CE1TL, White):
Here is the latest washing machine model from Samsung with an 8 Kg capacity, ideal for large families. The washer has many smart features like AI control, Wi-Fi connectivity and digital inverter technology to cater to the smarter generation. It offers 12 wash cycles with a 15-minute quick wash option. A hygienic steam wash removes dirt, allergens and microbes to deliver safe laundry for the entire family.
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Samsung
- Colour: White
- Capacity: 8Kg
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 6 x 8.5 Meters
- Weight: 65 Kgs
- Access Location: Front Load
- Warranty: 3 Years (10 yrs on motor)
Pros:
- The latest washing machine model on the market.
- Top quality built and designed.
- AI and Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Offers 12 wash programs with a quick wash option.
- Better wash quality and drying of clothes.
- Easy troubleshooting with a smartphone.
- Self-cleaning detergent drawer.
Cons:
- Doesn’t have an anti-rat cover on the bottom.
Ratings: 4.3/5
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Those are India’s 10 latest and best washing machines, which have earned rave customer reviews. You, too, can upgrade your laundry game by bringing home one of these amazing washer and dryer combos. Choose your budget, shortlist the models that fall under the price range and select the model based on your needs. We hope this article will help you in buying the best!
DISCLAIMER:
The ratings and reviews are based on the user ratings and comments on Amazon., based on individual user experiences. Stylesatlife takes no responsibility for determining the actual ratings based purely on the product’s quality or performance.
1. Why do my clothes have soap residues in the Washing Machine?
There are two main reasons why clothes have detergent residues – too much quantity or the powder is not getting dissolved properly in the water. In models like IFB fully automatic machines, there is an inbuilt technology to spray water on the power for complete dissolution. In older models, you can switch to liquid detergent or dissolve the powder in a mug of water and pour it straight into the wash tub.
2. Can the dryer in the latest Washing Machines give 100% dry clothes?
Most washing machine + dryer combo models can only dry clothes until 60-70%. You still have to air dry them. If you want 100% dry clothes, go for a specialized dryer with a separate unit. These dryers use high temperatures of up to 70 degrees C for bone-dry clothes.
3. Will my Washer work if the water flow stops in between the cycles?
This is a major problem with fully automatic machines as the water cycle completely stops when the water flow stops. In semi-automatic machines, you can manually add water to the tub and run it. This can be a major parameter to simplify your decision between fully automatic and semi-automatic washers.
