The best cheap washing machines in the UK 2023

in the UK, more than 2.5 million washing machines are sold each year (all models combined: top washing machines, porthole washing machines, built-in washing machines and dryers). And it's not about to stop, since more than 96% of French households claim to be equipped with one. Tired of doing your laundry by hand, going back and forth to the laundry or finding only expensive washing machines? Find a cheap, reliable and practical washing machine from our selection.

Continental Edison CELL10140TW 1
9/10

Editor's Choice

Continental Edison CELL10140TW

The best cheap washing machine in 2021

15 wash programs, a spin speed of 1400 rpm, a noise level of 54 dB, all the features are there for the Continental Edison CELL10140TW to proudly sit at the top of our ranking.

224 £ on Cdiscount

The Continental Edison CELL10140TW is a powerful front-loading machine offering a spin speed of 1400 rpm. Equipped with a stainless steel drum, it also has a digital LED display that will greatly facilitate its use. Its total capacity is 10 kg while it measures only 60 cm wide.

Continental Edison has thought of everything with this machine, including safety. It is equipped with an anti-vibration damper, a child safety device and an anti-spill device. The delayed start option, programmable from 0 to 19 hours, allows you to start the machine at the time you want. In addition, you can use the automatic weighing system to save a lot of water and electricity.

One Concept DB004
7/10

Low cost mini washing machine

One Concept DB004

The best cheap mini washing machine

Enjoy the incredible convenience of the One Concept DB004. It is a small washing machine with a capacity of 4.8 kg ideal for people living alone or families going camping. The appliance is offered at a low and affordable price.

136 £ on Darty

The One Concept DB004 is the cheap washing machine par excellence. It is offered at a very affordable and competitive price. Its purchase will help you make some precious savings. You will be equipped with a good quality appliance and especially convenient. It takes up very little space thanks to its small size. The One Concept DB004 will easily find a place in small studios and apartments. It is also portable as the device weighs only 16.5 kg and has carrying handles. Going camping? This cheap washing machine is made for you.

Despite its compactness, the One Concept DB004 has a reasonable capacity. It can handle up to 4.8 kg of laundry each wash. This is more than enough for a single person's weekly wash. The use is simple. Just choose between two modes. The washing machine includes a spin function. The laundry will be clean and dry faster.

Whirlpool TDLR55120SFR/N
9/10

Low cost top washing machine

Whirlpool TDLR55120SFR/N

The best cheap top washing machine

Discover the Whirlpool TDLR55120SFR/N, a modern, efficient and particularly affordable top-of-the-line washing machine. The appliance has a maximum capacity of 5 kg and offers a spin function that will dry your laundry much faster.

279 £ on Boulanger

The Whirlpool TDLR55120SFR/N is a top washing machine. Unlike the porthole model, the opening is at the top of the machine. This brings more safety during the washing and limits the risks of leakage. It is also easier to put the laundry in the drum, which has a total volume of 42 liters. Even better, you can open the drum easily with one hand. Note that it is possible to place up to 5 kg of laundry in the drum. This capacity is ideal for a one or two person household.

The Whirlpool TDLR55120SFR/N is controlled from a control panel with an LCD display. There you will set the wash mode, but also the spin. Yes, this washer has a standard spin function at 1100 rpm. The appliance also has a timer that allows you to program the start of the wash for 24 hours. The Whirlpool TDLR55120SFR/N has a reasonable noise level of 76 dB. The washing machine is efficient and quiet.

Beko WTE6612SY 2
9/10

Excellent choice

Beko WTE6612SY

The most robust cheap washing machine

Opt for this washing machine designed by Beko, a reference in terms of cheap and efficient washing machines. You will benefit from its 15 programs to complete your laundry in the respect of the textiles.

240 £ on Cdiscount

Treat yourself to a front-mounted washing machine with a standard motor. It has a stainless steel drum with a capacity of 39 liters and a spin speed of 1200 rpm. This appliance can support a total load of 6 kg, has an energy class E and a spin efficiency class B. It is distinguished from other models by its shallow depth. Thanks to this, it can be easily integrated into even the smallest of spaces.

You will benefit from a digital display to simply program the wash (a delayed start adjustable up to 19 hours) or to check the remaining time of the current cycle. Moreover, you don't have to worry about safety. The washing machine has an overflow protection system and a child safety lock. Thanks to its anti-vibration walls, noise pollution is considerably reduced to a minimum.

Proline FP601WH
8/10

Very good

Proline FP601WH

A good alternative

Are you looking for a good quality, inexpensive washing machine that is efficient and easy to handle? The Proline FP601WH is the perfect choice for you. It takes up little space, washes up to 6 kg of laundry per cycle and has a convenient spin function.

184 £ on Darty

The Proline FP601WH has an opening on the front with a porthole. It has a 44-liter drum that can hold up to 6 kg of laundry. This washing machine is therefore recommended for households with three or four people. The appliance offers 15 pre-recorded washing programs, including an Eco Wash mode at 20°C, which limits energy consumption. It consumes 43 liters of water per wash cycle and has an energy class of D.

A quick wash program at 30°C is used to wash lightly soiled laundry in just 15 minutes. In this case, the drum capacity will be limited to 2 kg. The Proline FP601WH washing machine does not only wash your clothes. It also has a variable spin function with a peak of 1000 rpm. A timer offers the possibility to delay the start of a cycle for up to 12 hours. Regardless of the wash and spin programs, the Proline FP601WH remains quiet with a maximum sound level of 76 dB.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best cheap washing machine

Any specific needs?

The best cheap washing machine in 2021

The best cheap mini washing machine

The best cheap top washing machine

The most robust cheap washing machine

A good alternative

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best cheap washing machines

THE BEST Mini washing machine Top washing machine EXCELLENT Very good
Continental Edison CELL10140TW 3
9/10
One Concept DB004
7/10
Whirlpool TDLR55120SFR/N
9/10
Beko WTE6612SY 4
9/10
Proline FP601WH
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Continental Edison CELL10140TW
One Concept DB004
Whirlpool TDLR55120SFR/N
Beko WTE6612SY
Proline FP601WH
15 wash programs, a spin speed of 1400 rpm, a noise level of 54 dB, all the features are there for the Continental Edison CELL10140TW to proudly sit at the top of our ranking.
Enjoy the incredible convenience of the One Concept DB004. It is a small washing machine with a capacity of 4.8 kg ideal for people living alone or families going camping. The appliance is offered at a low and affordable price.
Discover the Whirlpool TDLR55120SFR/N, a modern, efficient and particularly affordable top-of-the-line washing machine. The appliance has a maximum capacity of 5 kg and offers a spin function that will dry your laundry much faster.
Opt for this washing machine designed by Beko, a reference in terms of cheap and efficient washing machines. You will benefit from its 15 programs to complete your laundry in the respect of the textiles.
Are you looking for a good quality, inexpensive washing machine that is efficient and easy to handle? The Proline FP601WH is the perfect choice for you. It takes up little space, washes up to 6 kg of laundry per cycle and has a convenient spin function.
Number of programs
15
2
12
15
15
Drum volume
64 L
About 40 L
42 L
39 L
44 L
Wash capacity
10 kg
4.8 kg
5.5 kg
6 kg
6 kg
Spin speed
1400 RPM
1000 rpm
1100 rpm
1200 rpm
1000 rpm
Noise level
54 to 76 dB
-
76 dB
76 dB
76 dB

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Buying guide - cheap washing machine

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How to choose your cheap washing machine

Looking for the best cheap washing machine to replace your outdated one? To find a model that fully meets your needs, you'll need to take a serious look at the issue. In addition to the wide range of washing machines available on the market, technical criteria must also be taken into account in order to make a wise choice. Discover below, the parameters to define before buying a washing machine without ruining you!

#1 - the design

It goes without saying that the first point to consider when buying a household appliance is always the design. The washing machine is no exception to the rule, especially since it has undergone a multitude of innovations that are worth looking at. In terms of design, the designers of this domestic equipment focus on the control panel, which can be single-button or with multiple buttons, touch screen or LED display. Then you have to decide on the presentation of the tank and drum, the dimensions, and the type of installation. In other words, there are two kinds of washing machines:

  • the "top" model with an opening on the top, measuring between 40 and 46 cm wide for a free standing installation
  • the "porthole" or front model, with a front opening, is about 60 cm wide and 85 cm high (sometimes more if it is a "big size" model) for free-standing or built-in installation

#2 - the capacity

It goes without saying that the capacity of washing machines depends on their size. Thus, a "top" model of 40 to 46 cm wide has a capacity ranging from 5 to 8 kg. This is an alternative for people who live alone or as a couple. On the other hand, we advise large families to turn to the front washing machines whose normal capacity ranges from 5 to 12 kg. However, there are "slim" models with a capacity of 4 kg and compact models with a capacity much lower than 4 kg. The "big size" ones offer a capacity of up to 15 kg. Make your choice according to the number of people under your roof, the usual amount of laundry and the frequency with which you intend to do your laundry. Also, don't forget that the type of fabric plays an important role, as cotton and white linen are not as heavy as synthetics, jeans or wool.

#3 - proposed temperatures

For a complete laundry and done in the rules of art, the temperature chosen is an essential and unavoidable element. Therefore, don't forget that a wide choice of temperatures is required to take advantage of the different types of washing available. However, check that the temperatures you really need are offered on the machine you have chosen. Normally, you will use temperatures of 30 and 40°C which are perfectly available on cheap washing machines. But higher temperatures (60°C or 90°C) may be necessary to remove the most stubborn dirt and grease.

#4 - the spin speed

Design, capacity, temperature... One thing is for sure, these are the most important criteria, but the same goes for the spin speed. This parameter is often not taken into account by buyers, so they end up with a washing machine that performs well, but not well enough in terms of spinning. This is crucial if you want your clothes to be less damp after washing and to dry quickly. Usually, this spin speed is between 1000 and 1600 rpm; a choice you will make according to your needs and your budget, as models that offer intensive spinning are naturally more expensive.

#5 - the engines

In order to function, washing machines must have a motor. If yours doesn't work properly anymore, it may be the problem. However, since repairs can be more expensive, we recommend that you buy a new washing machine at an affordable price by paying special attention to the motors. If you choose a model with a universal motor, your machine may not last long. Indeed, this type of motor often causes friction in the parts that make it up, not to mention that it has a low efficiency. Choose more resistant motors such as induction motors: asynchronous, direct current or inverter , whose longevity and noise level are much more appreciable.

#6 - the functions

The features generally refer to the options offered by the washing machine manufacturers and that you will find systematically on the energy label. Over the years, the drying option, for example, has made the sale of these appliances explode. This is a 2-in-1 washing machine, whose other functionality is to dry the laundry. Once the laundry is done, you switch to the drying mode and then get your clothes back dry and ready to be ironed. In addition, there are other features available to you on more reworked models:

  • Connectedwashing machines
  • Washing machines with automatic dosing
  • Washing machines with steam defrosting
  • Washing machines with LED display
  • Washing machines with various programs on the control panel (temperatures, times, double wash, choice of fabric, etc.)
  • Economical washing machines (electricity and water saving)
  • etc.

#7 - the level of security

As with the use of a stove, refrigerator or any other household appliance, the use of a washing machine requires a certain level of safety. Depending on the design of the models and your budget, you can benefit from several safety features such as:

  • The child safety: essential in any circumstance, this is the option that allows you to lock the program during the entire operation lest your children go through the washing machine to modify the process
  • The door security: this level of security blocks the door and prevents it from opening during the whole operation
  • Hose safety: in addition to the risk of leaks, the hose is subject to pressure (thermal or not) that can lead to bursting. Designers have therefore made it more solid and resistant to any test by doubling the sheath or by equipping it with an anti-leak system, "aquastop" and/or "aqualock".
  • Water safety: which is expressed by the anti-overflow systems as well as the stop systems in case of extreme filling of the tank
  • The "anti-drumming" safety: which puts the spinning on hold when the drum is full

Air or water drying?

While some people skip the drying option, others find it more comfortable and don't want to do without it. Since there are washing machines that are not only inexpensive but also offer this feature, you might as well take advantage of it! Although it's not essential, having a washing machine that dries will be beneficial, especially if you don't have a dryer or outdoor space to hang your laundry. It's a way to kill two birds with one stone, as long as you choose the drying method that suits you best. Again, another choice is between air and water drying. The first alternative is more or less identical to air drying, except that the machine itself produces the air in this context. In the case of water drying, the designers are inspired by the principle of condensation, which consists of heating the laundry first and then extracting the moisture.

If you are among those who cannot do without this feature, note that water drying means consuming a large amount of water. You will not get a return on your investment, especially if you are looking for a cheap washing machine. The best thing to do is to choose an appliance that offers air drying, or to go natural and let your clothes dry in the fresh air.

Top or front washing machine?

Choosing between a top and a front washing machine is not easy, as you will have a real embarrassment of choice even if you turn to the category of models sold at low prices. The advantages of each of these models are equally tempting.

The top washing machines were the first to be marketed in time, a feature that makes them a safe bet. The dimensions offered by the manufacturers make them suitable for small spaces. Whether you live in a small apartment or a studio, you will have no trouble finding the right place for it. In fact, this type of washing machine can be placed anywhere in the house: in the bathroom as well as in the kitchen, in the small laundry room or even in the hallway. It is suitable enough for you to do your laundry every week, thanks to its good capacity of 5 to 8 kg. Whether you are an eternal loner or a couple, do not hesitate to make this choice.

Porthole or front-mounted washing machines have found their way into many homes, as their size is much more suitable for large families. Because of their size, they require a spacious corner, especially if you choose the "big size" model which has American dimensions. However, if you don't have the necessary space, you should know that this type of washing machine has the advantage of fitting easily under a work surface. Some models are even built-in, so you can save a lot of space. In this way, you can hide it under your kitchen or bathroom worktop, or integrate it into a wall or cabinet. Also, innovations have made it possible to find less imposing porthole washing machines that are suitable for narrow spaces, such as :

  • The "slim" models with a depth of 33 to 45 cm
  • Compact models with less depth than the "slim" ones

To make your choice easier, don't hesitate to rely on the aesthetic side by visualizing your new washing machine once it is installed. Similarly, think about what's most practical and comfortable to use: for example, a top washing machine avoids the backache of bending over when filling a front washing machine. Finally, the capacity of the appliance is the criterion that will determine your choice. Evaluate your real needs by keeping in mind the amount of laundry you need to wash at a specific interval.

Verdict

To make your choice easier, don't hesitate to rely on the aesthetic side by visualizing your new washing machine once it is installed. Similarly, think about what is most practical and comfortable to use: the top washing machine avoids, for example, the backache that can be felt from bending over while filling a front washing machine. Finally, the capacity of the appliance is the criterion that will delimit your choice. Evaluate your real needs by keeping in mind the quantity of laundry you need to wash at a specific interval.

Why buy a cheap washing machine?

To save time

A cheap washing machine helps you reduce the time you spend hand washing or going to the laundromat. It saves you the sometimes endless waits in these public places. You can concentrate on other tasks if you have one of these appliances at home.

For its practicality

A washing machine eliminates the need to do the laundry by hand. It is very beneficial as you will no longer have to damage your hands by scrubbing and rinsing your clothes stored in a basin. The machine does all the work quickly, without affecting the quality of the wash. Some inexpensive models still offer different options and settings that allow you to vary the wash mode and speed.

To protect the environment

A washing machine, unlike other washing methods, is more economical since it uses less water than hand washing or washing on a board. In addition, you will not have to drive to a laundromat, which greatly reduces the emission of CO2 into our atmosphere.

For its capacity

You can choose the washing machine according to your needs and the number of people in your household. There are many models with varying capacities. For a cheap washing machine, the capacity is between 3 and 5 kg. But you can still find a cheaper model with a large capacity of 8 kg.

To avoid damaging your clothes

Yes, rubbing your cloths with your hand causes them to wrinkle, get damaged and tear in the end. You won't have this problem anymore with a washing machine at home. Your clothes will last longer, feel softer and the color will remain intact. A cheap washing machine has the right performance so that you can wash your clothes and other fabrics properly.

The best brands of cheap washing machines

In our opinion, the best brands of cheap washing machines in 2022 are :

CONTINENTAL EDISON
PROLINE
BEKO
WHIRLPOOL
SAMSUNG

Continental Edison is a company that has been producing home appliances and televisions since 1882. The brand has more than 100 years of experience, more innovation and creation than some current brands in its dashboard. The products that have made the praise of this brand are especially its refrigerators. Reliability, sturdiness and quality are the adjectives that characterize the Continental Edison brand.

ProLine is a French brand that specializes in home appliances. It belongs to the DARTY household appliance brand. Although the brand is still relatively unknown, the quality of its products and its excellent quality/price ratio make it a brand to watch. Its products are elegant, discreet and efficient with a very satisfactory longevity.

Founded in 1955, this Turkish brand of household appliances is today the 2nd best-selling brand of large appliances in Europe, thanks to a constantly expanded and renewed offer. When it comes to washing machines, Beko products are among the most purchased brands on the market, with a quality/price ratio that will suit all budgets.

This multinational company is present in 32 countries, including France, to offer home appliances that can change daily life for the better. Its more than 100 years of experience have enabled it to bring high-performance, robust and high-quality products to French homes. Today its whirlpool Fresh Care+ washing machine brings exceptional washing power, offering incredible results, even without a hand pre-wash.

Founded in 1938, this Korean brand offers very popular products in the field of home appliances. It offers excellent value for money and products that cover all ranges. Innovative and very creative, the brand is one of those that influence the market. Its new Ecobubble washing machine illustrates this perfectly.

What is the price for a cheap washing machine

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
150 £ to 250 £
Mid-range
250 £ to 325 £
High-end
more than 325 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Don't minimize wash quality to save water

Fast, practical and clever, washing machines are in some ways indispensable and systematically relieve you of hand washing. But in order to reduce water consumption, some people opt for bulky models even if it means washing a large quantity of clothes to save money. Others even reduce the minimum wash time to save time and use less water and electricity. Don't make the mistake of lowering the amount of water at the expense of wash quality, at the risk of coming out with poorly washed and rinsed clothes.

Don't make automatic dosing a priority

It

must be said that the automatic dosing option is not as essential as its name suggests. Dispensing soap powder and fabric softener won't take you as long as it does, and the instructions that come with this type of appliance often shed light on the right amount to use. So, don't make automatic dosing a priority at the risk of spending more than you need to.

Choose intuitive models

Are you

a fan of innovative, digital appliances? It goes without saying that your choice will inevitably turn to the latest washing machines that combine trends and modernity. However, these appliances are not practical and convenient for most consumers, who may even get confused for a while. For this reason, we advise you to favor intuitive washing machines, whose indications are far from complex to read and whose use remains clear and precise.

Prioritize lower noise levels

You don

't have a laundry room or an isolated room to install your washing machine? It is therefore essential to pay attention to the noise level that could disturb you if you put yours in a room near your bedroom or other living areas. Innovative motors like the Inverter motor have a low noise level, but the price of machines with this invention tends to rise. For this reason, choose an inexpensive washing machine that is efficient, but barely audible during the wash and not as annoying during the spin. For this, we recommend more those with induction or asynchronous motors.

Be careful not to overload the drum

Overloading

your drum is tantamount to diminishing the washing efficiency and life span of your washing machine. Be aware that the capacity indicated on the energy label defines the maximum capacity for simple laundry (cotton or white linen). For heavier laundry, you will need to reduce the amount you put into the drum. These include denim, wool or synthetic clothes.

FAQ

Which cheap washing machine to choose?

In our opinion, the best washing machine for most people is the porthole washing machine like the Indesit EWC 61252 W FR M and the High One WM 805 porthole washing machine. As you will have understood from this guide, these models are diversified: there are large models with an excellent capacity and others in a smaller version for small needs. Also, their performance is indisputable, especially in terms of capacity and spin speed.

What is the price of a cheap washing machine?

The average price of all brands of washing machines in the UK ranges from €200 to €600. However, these prices vary according to the models and the features they offer. For example, mini washing machines are sold at €80, while more customised and complex models can cost around €1000 or even €2000. To buy a cheap but good quality washing machine, expect prices between €150 and €375.

Is the energy label important?

In addition to the criteria we mentioned above, the energy label is your best ally in determining the quality and performance of a washing machine. Among other things, it indicates the appliance's annual electricity consumption, as well as its energy class (A+, A++ and A+++, A, B, C or D). You will also find out the annual water consumption, the maximum capacity, the spinning and washing efficiency, the standby power consumption and the noise level during washing and spinning of the appliance that caught your attention.

Are the different programs really useful?

If you want to know whether a washing machine is better than another, don't just look at the prices advertised by the retailers or at the built-in programs. You can see for yourself that some washing machines that cost a fortune and have several programs are not necessarily more efficient than the classic models. Therefore, the most important thing is that the programs you think you really need are on the washing machine of your choice.

Are washing machines as effective as hand washing?

The claim that hand washing is more effective than washing in a washing machine is not to be taken lightly. Although a machine does not require a lot of time and energy, it is not as effective as hand washing. However, it's no secret that manual laundry is a tough chore and that's where the washing machine comes in. You will find all its efficiency by choosing the right capacity, the right temperature and the right products.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , quechoisir.org
  2. , inc-conso.fr
  3. , bestreviews.com
  4. , conseils.radins.com
  5. , consumerreports.org
  6. , darty.com
  7. , reviews.cheapism.com
  8. , primo-ideo.com
  9. , vandenborre.be
  10. , vandenborre.be
  11. , conforama.fr
  12. , but.fr
  13. , darty.com
  14. , ubaldi.com
  15. , cdiscount.com
  16. , electrodepot.fr
  17. , cdiscount.com
  18. , rueducommerce.fr
  19. , amazon.co.uk
  20. , e.leclerc
  21. , electroguide.com
  22. , boulanger.com
  23. , darty.com
  24. , backmarket.fr
  25. , reconomia.fr
  26. , amazon.co.uk
  27. , electrodepot.fr
  28. , quechoisir.org
  29. , mediamarkt.be
  30. , label-emmaus.co
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
Continental Edison CELL10140TW 5
Continental Edison CELL10140TW
One Concept DB004
One Concept DB004
Whirlpool TDLR55120SFR/N
Whirlpool TDLR55120SFR/N
Beko WTE6612SY 6
Beko WTE6612SY
Proline FP601WH
Proline FP601WH

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