Should you buy a cheap washing machine?

Author: Liliana Corkery  |  Last update: Wednesday, January 28, 2026

You might find that cheaper washing machines lack certain features, or they make use of slightly cheaper and less satisfying materials. If you want to make use of different features, such as stain removal, we would recommend paying for a more expensive model.

What's the difference between a cheap and expensive washing machine?

Higher-priced machines often have better cleaning performance, faster spin speeds, and more effective water extraction, which can result in cleaner clothes and shorter drying times. More expensive models may offer larger capacities, which can be beneficial for families or those who do frequent laundry.

Do expensive washing machines wash better?

Wash Quality: Expensive machines may offer better cleaning performance, advanced settings, and specialized cycles for different fabrics. Noise Levels: Premium models tend to operate more quietly, which can be a significant factor in noise-sensitive environments.

What is a good price to pay for a washing machine?

Washing machines typically range from $700 to $1,300, with an average washing machine price around $1,000. Dryers generally cost between $800 and $1,200, with factors like dryer size, dryer depth, and dryer capacity influencing the price.

How long does a cheap washing machine last?

But today's cheaper models can often only manage hundreds of loads before buckling under the pressure. If you are putting on a wash once a day, your machine could be past its cycle life in just a couple of years. Washing manufacturer Indesit say that they expect their products to last 7-8 years.

10 Things To Consider Before Buying A Washing Machine - Washing Machine Buying Guide

Which brand washing machine last longer?

If you're looking for a washer and dryer that will last a long time, Samsung is right up there with LG and Whirlpool in terms of longevity. Like Maytag, Samsung appliances typically require fewer repairs.

Is it worth repairing a 7 year old washing machine?

Factors to Consider

If you spent $650 on your washer seven years ago and you're doing seven loads per week (a lot of wear and tear), a new washer purchase makes sense. But if the machine is 3 years old and you spent $1,000 for it, a repair may be the better financial choice.

How much should you pay for a washing machine?

The average range for washing machines is from about £300 up to £1000 plus – quite a choice. If your budget is towards the lower end of this range, you will still find quite a difference in quality and reliability, which is why it is so important to do your homework first, so you know which ones to avoid.

Which brand of washing machine is best?

Our surveys indicate that LG is the most reliable brand that makes front-load and top-load HE washers, while Speed Queen is the most reliable brand for top-load agitators. Electrolux, LG, and Miele shine among compact front-load washers.

How can I save money on my washing machine?

  1. Load the drum as full as possible without cramming the laundry in.
  2. Do not use more detergent than necessary: it's inefficient and polluting.
  3. If you are using a quick or half-load programme, use liquid or powder detergent that you can dose precisely instead of a tablet detergent.

What is most important when buying a washing machine?

The first thing to consider when buying a washing machine is capacity. A washer's capacity refers to the space inside the barrel which determines the size of the load that the machine can wash in a single cycle.

Do laundromat washers wash better?

3. Professional-Grade Machines. Coin laundromats use commercial-grade machines, which are designed to handle a large volume of laundry. This means that your clothes will get cleaner and dryer than they would in a typical home machine when they are not properly maintained or serviced.

Do washers really matter?

Without a washer, a screw can damage the joint's bearing surface when its threads dig into the material during tightening. Screw washers distribute the load. This is especially necessary when you're driving into a soft material, such as wood or aluminium, which is vulnerable to stress-related damage.

Do expensive washing machines last longer?

The average washing machine can handle around 5,100 cycles, with low-end machines running about 4,000 cycles and high-end machines running 8,000 or more. When considering which new washer you want to purchase, you have four main options: Standard top-loader. Standard front-loader.

Is it worth buying an A-rated washing machine?

Appliances with an A rating are the most efficient. Appliances with a G rating are the least efficient.

What is the most expensive part to replace on a washing machine?

Drum. Unfortunately, the drum is the most expensive of all the possible washing machine replacement parts. Expect to spend at least $400 on a washing machine drum replacement. Water Inlet Valve.

What brand of washer has the least problems?

LG has consistently emerged as the best washer brand, often vying for the top spot with Speed Queen in Consumer Reports. This reputation cements LG's status as one of the best brand washers. A key factor in LG's popularity is its impressively low repair rates, making it a reliable choice in the appliance market.

How long should a washing machine last?

Average washing machine lifespan

Well, this figure obviously varies depending on lots of different factors - including brand, model, how you use it, and how well you maintain it. But generally, if you look after your washing machine properly you should it expect it to last anywhere between 7 and 12 years.

Are Whirlpool and Maytag the same?

Since 2006, Whirlpool has owned Maytag, but they are independent appliance manufacturers.

Is it worth buying an expensive washing machine?

In a lot of ways, it is worth splashing out a little more, and opting for a more expensive washing machine. Washing machines with higher price tags tend to be made of higher-quality materials. This allows them to last longer.

What is a good price for a washing machine?

Washing machines can cost anywhere from about $500 to $1,400 or more. And while "cheap" or "affordable" are subjective terms, for this guide, I capped our recommendations at about $750.

What usually fails on a washing machine?

A broken motor coupler, failed lid switch or bad timer could also prevent this type of washer from spinning. On top-load, vertical modular washers (washers whose lid is always locked during the entire wash cycle), a failed shifter assembly or worn drive belt can prevent the washer from spinning the wash load.

Is it cheaper to buy a new washing machine or get it fixed?

While, in most cases, it's better to replace an older washing machine, if the repairs are simple, then they may be more cost-effective. If you're repairing only a simple issue with your washing machine, then it might not cost you very much. It's worth contacting an electrician to take a look at the issue.

Why are old washing machines better?

On the other hand, old washing machines are praised for their durability, reliability, simplicity, and ease of repairs, appealing to individuals valuing longevity and straightforward operation.

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