Which washing machine is better, narrow or full-size?

Which washing machine is better: narrow or full-size? According to the latest statistics on washing machine sales, users prefer narrow models. This trend is understandable, as narrow washing machines are more compact and fit more easily into interiors. However, from a practical perspective, which machine is better: a narrow one or a standard one? Let's find out.

What kind of equipment does the market offer?

Slimline washing machines have become popular relatively recently, and their popularity doesn't mean manufacturers will immediately discontinue other models. Retailers offer a wide range of sizes:

Standard washing machines are 85-90 cm high and within 60 cm deep and wide.
Narrow washing machines are also 85-90 cm in height, 60 cm in width, and no more than 45 cm in depth.
Ultra-narrow washing machines are 85-90 cm high, 60 cm wide, and no more than 33-35 cm deep.
Compact models designed for installation in a kitchen set – height 65-70 cm, width 50-52 cm, depth up to 45 cm.

So, how are narrow and super-narrow cars better than their larger counterparts? To answer this question, we need to consider their competitive advantages, because demand doesn't just happen.

The positive aspects of this technique

Middle-class and lower-class housing in Russia tends to be small. Therefore, the unique advantage of narrow washing machines is their compactness. When every square meter counts, this truly becomes important.

Other arguments in favor of purchasing narrow equipment.

The dimensions allow you to “squeeze” the washing machine literally anywhere, be it a niche under the sink in the kitchen or a tiny bathroom, where the washing machine and the sink will be combined into a common countertop.
Narrow washing machines load vertically, so the housewife does not need an additional square meter to open the hatch.
Excellent capacity despite its compact size. Nowadays, you can find an ultra-narrow washing machine with a load capacity of up to 7 kg, which is quite decent even for a standard model.

Another important point is price. Narrow washing machines are much cheaper than wide units from the same manufacturers.

Disadvantages of narrow technology

Simply downsizing a car while maintaining all the features of the full-size version is impossible, so manufacturers had to make certain sacrifices. Some are minor, but others are hard to ignore.

The area of the tub suspension assembly has been reduced, significantly reducing its reliability. While shock absorbers in standard washing machines can last up to 7 years, this isn't something you can expect from narrow machines.
The drum shock absorber area has also been reduced, which has also negatively impacted the durability of the dampers. Furthermore, this means narrow washing machines vibrate more and produce more noise.
The reduction in the weight of the washing machine itself and the area of its base also contribute to less stability and a higher level of vibration.

Such design changes inevitably impact the washing quality and performance of the washing machine. For example, due to their small size, narrow machines tend to clump laundry more than standard machines, causing it to bunch up or form into a single, large ball, which significantly reduces the washing and rinsing performance.

Please note: Narrow and extra-narrow washing machines always offer significantly fewer features than standard models. They typically lack pre-wash, control panel protection, drying, and other functions.

As mentioned above, severe vibration and noise are a problem with all narrow washing machines. They lack the weight and size to be stable. As a result, even rubber mats and other shock-absorbing aids don't help the situation, and during the spin cycle, the machine will bounce around the room like crazy. For most users dissatisfied with narrow washing machines, their key drawback is noise and vibration during operation. It's worth considering this before abandoning a full-size version in favor of a compact one.