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Laundry Buying Guide

From freestanding and integrated, to condenser and heat pump models, this laundry buying guide explores different machines to suit every layout and outlines the features and benefits so that homeowners can make an informed decision. Whether you are looking for a washing machine, dryer, or a dual-use device, there are many options to look out for that will make daily chores simple and efficient. These include drying sensors, half loads, drum sizes, and energy efficient options that will ease pressures on the environment and lower household bills.

What are the different laundry devices?

What are the different fitting types?

Freestanding

Make light work of washing with a freestanding device that can be easily installed in different layouts.

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Freestanding

Freestanding devices can be installed anywhere there is power, water, drainage and venting connections. This makes them easy to fit in existing spaces and will ensure it lasts for years to come as you can simply disconnect when moving or renovating a room.

See freestanding washing machines
Integrated

Let your design do the talking by opting for an integrated machine that sits behind a cupboard door.

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Integrated

Offering a seamless fit, an integrated washer, dryer, or combi device is tucked away behind a cupboard door. This is great when placing laundry machines in a cooking space rather than a utility, as it keeps an interior coordinated, clutter-free, and reduces visual interruption.

See integrated washing machines

Features to look out for

Half load

Cut down on washing time by opting for a device with half load, which is great for lighter, more frequent cycles.

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Half load

Whether you like to keep on top of your laundry with multi-week washes, or you live in a smaller household, half-load functions can be a convenient feature. Cycles are faster, adjusting to the lighter load, which saves time on daily chores. This function also uses less water, so is a great choice for reducing the impact on the environment.
Load detection

Go high-tech with automatic load detection that scans the weight of laundry to reduce water and cycle times.

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Load detection

Last minute laundry loads can be unpredictable, from work shirts to PE kits that may be required for the next day. Automatic load detection makes these adhoc tasks a walk in the park, as the device recognises the weight of the washing, ensuring it provides the optimum amount of water and cycle time for a thorough clean.

Add Wash

Find room for loose socks with an Add Wash function, which allows you to throw in extra items during a cycle.

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Add wash

Leave the frustration of forgotten laundry in the past by opting for a washer or dryer machine that has an Add Wash feature. Allowing you to pause a cycle to include stray clothes and linen through a second, smaller door, will ensure that your basket is left empty and will decrease the number of loads needed over the course of a week.
Drying sensor

Let your device do the work for you with a dryer sensor that determines the level of moisture within a load.

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Drying sensor

Using sensors to determine the moisture level of laundry within a machine ensures cycles are stopped as soon as they reach the optimum dryness. This prevents clothes from over-drying, which can lead to shrinkage or damage, while also making the unit cheaper to run – essential during the wet and cold winter months.

Planning considerations

Installation

Create a streamlined layout by carefully considering the format and location of your devices.

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Installation

When planning laundry equipment, there must be access to a cold-water feed, a waste-out connection, and a main plug socket to ensure the equipment runs smoothly and efficiently. If you are opting for individual washer and dryer units, consider how the doors open to make loading simple from one to the other. Alternatively, consider using a stacking accessory to make the most of the height of a room.

See laundry accessories
Noise levels

Take note of noise rating to ensure you can complete loads at any time of day, without interrupting daily life.

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Noise levels

From quick cycles during work-from-home days to last-minute loads late at night, there are many situations that require a quiet environment while completing washing. Noise ratings, measured in decibels, indicate how loud a machine will be - 65db is comparable to a normal conversation. Low-rated devices will be a sound choice for open-plan layouts as it will prevent the device from drowning out other activities.

Energy efficiency

Be kind to the planet with an energy efficient model that cuts costs and reduces the impact on the environment.

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Energy efficiency

When the cold, winter months draw in, we become increasingly reliant on using washing and drying machines to keep our clothes warm and dry. Opting for eco-friendly choices will help to lower the environmental impact, as well as cutting costs during times of high energy use. Specific cycles will control temperature and spin times while certain drying types, like heat pumps, are more efficient.

See appliance energy rating guide
Drum size

Pick the right drum size that meets the needs of a household to ensure your laundry devices run efficiently.

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Drum size

Larger drum capacities, such as 9kg or higher, are well suited to larger households or busy family homes as they can accommodate a higher amount of laundry and will speed up drying time. Alternatively, smaller drums are typically more affordable and are better suited to couples or single dwellers. For the ultimate efficient scheme, choose washer and dryer machines with the same capacity to ensure loads are equal.

Brands to explore

Lamona

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Lamona

Lamona devices are supplied exclusively from Howdens. Including innovative features, integrated and freestanding options, there will be a choice to suit any home.

See Lamona laundry appliances
Miele

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Miele

Go for a premium scheme with a Miele machine that has a cutting-edge design. With a range of drum sizes, features, and speeds, these devices will instantly enhance a layout.

See Miele tumble dryers

Beko

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Beko

For those looking for an affordable machine, Beko combines energy-efficient design with a low price. Compact and freestanding models also make these a fuss-free choice.

See Beko tumble dryers
Bosch

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Bosch

For those looking for an affordable machine, Beko combines energy-efficient design with a low price. Compact and freestanding models also make these a fuss-free choice.

See Bosch washing machines

Samsung appliances

Full of cutting-edge features and advanced technology, Samsung's collection of appliances makes everyday tasks a breeze and brings continual innovation into the home.

See Samsung appliances