Narrow Washing Machines: A Review and Selection Tips

Nowadays, it's impossible to live without a washing machine, not only because it saves significant time and effort, but also because most families have long used appliances for various purposes. That's why, in small apartments or homes where there's simply not enough space for full-size appliances, slimline washing machines are the best solution. Sometimes, compact models fit better into a new room's interior.

What parameters is the choice based on?

It would seem clear from the name of the device that its primary purpose is clear—it's supposed to wash clothes. However, this is far from the case, as manufacturers offer a huge variety of models in various sizes, each with a wide range of different characteristics.

Therefore, it's advisable to prioritize the features you want in a machine before purchasing. At the same time, you need to determine your budget. Don't just consider price, as you might end up buying something completely different from what you need, with completely useless features, at a high price.

Narrow washing machines are mostly top-loading. These models have their own advantages:

• Possibility of installation on three sides of the device;
• space saving, as there is no need to open the front hatch.

However, such a machine also can't be installed under the sink due to its top-loading design. Some users believe that a narrow washing machine always requires a minimal drum capacity. However, this isn't true, and if you consider a range of options, you can find a 5 kg capacity machine with a compact footprint, as an alternative to models with a load capacity of up to 3-4 kg.

Detailed review of characteristics

To ensure your washing machine provides reliable service for years to come, it's important to carefully study its specifications. This is the only way to ensure you get the perfect device that meets your needs. Key parameters include:

1. First, it's best to decide which loading type is preferable. For example, the main advantage of a front-loading model is the ability to install it under a kitchen countertop or under a bathroom sink. However, narrow, top-loading washing machines offer significant space savings, and they also allow you to toss a forgotten item into the machine while the cycle is running.
2. The choice of washing class allows you to get a washing machine that is distinguished by good washing quality, and in addition to This makes it energy-efficient. The best option for this criterion is a class A model. You can find different types of appliances with class designations ranging from A to G.
3. RPM. This parameter determines the quality of the spin cycle. If you prefer to remove practically dry laundry from the machine, then you should consider models with the highest drum speed. However, be aware that narrow washing machines, even with relatively high RPM, do not provide the same spin cycle quality due to the significantly smaller drum radius of these models than full-size machines.

Most mid-range machines operate at 1,200 rpm, but some models have drum speeds up to 2,000 rpm. The ability to manually select the spin mode can be an added benefit, but economy models typically lack this feature.

4. The material the tank is made of also plays a role in the choice. For example, stainless steel has a much longer service life than other models. However, composite materials allow the machine to operate much more quietly. So, the user must decide for themselves what's more important: longevity or relatively quiet operation.
5. Connection method. It's easier and more cost-effective to choose a machine with a cold water connection only. This will avoid a number of problems, including savings, as cold water is significantly cheaper than hot water. Additionally, the device's heating element heats the cold water more evenly. However, the quality of the hot water cannot be guaranteed.
6. Number of programs. All full-size and slimline washing machines come with a set of preset programs that allow you to wash clothes under specific conditions (either enhanced or gentle). For example, almost all models feature a delicate wash program, a soak cycle, or an extra rinse cycle.
7. Noise level. The manufacturer always extols its product, but don't blindly trust all the colorful stickers that adorn the machine's body. The fact is, only machines equipped with a three-phase asynchronous drum drive motor and soundproofing material in the interior of the machine can be truly considered silent.
8. A leak protection feature. This feature isn't available on every model. Furthermore, there are several different types of devices:

• without protection function;
• with partial protection;
• with full protection.

If you've chosen a narrow washing machine with such a unit, it will help avoid a number of potential problems in the future. In other cases, a separate locking mechanism could be considered, but unfortunately, this simply isn't an option, and protection is installed only by the manufacturer.

9. Drying. Machines with this feature will cost significantly more. It's assumed that the user will experience greater convenience when removing dry laundry from the drum. However, this isn't entirely true, as, firstly, you'll have to partially empty the machine each time, removing half the load, to ensure proper drying, and secondly, the laundry will wrinkle excessively.

Additional features

In addition to the basic set of programs and functions, narrow washing machines may also have other features, including:

• Aqua Sensor - allows you to significantly reduce water consumption during washing, and in addition, it monitors the degree of water transparency and, if necessary, increases the number of rinses;
• Fuzzi Control — automatic control of the washing mode, as a result of which the machine independently decides which program parameters should be used for the loaded amount of laundry and type of material;
• S-system - foam control function;
• Start timer - allows the user to delay the start of the device;
• Rinse Hold is a function that allows you to remove laundry from the machine before the spin cycle begins to prevent creasing.

There are fully automatic machines that can select the operating mode and other washing parameters without human intervention. There are various types of these machines, each differing in their washing technology.

One of the factors when choosing a washing machine is the brand. Popular brands include Candy, Ariston, Indesit, Beko, and Samsung. Some Bosch and Electrolux models are in a higher class. The price will vary accordingly. It's not recommended to focus on price or brand recognition in isolation from other factors. A washing machine should be evaluated holistically based on a number of characteristics, including, of course, price.

As a result, by analyzing a range of technical specifications and setting an initial budget, you can select a device model with precisely the features and functions that will ensure the user's desired level of quality. You can always find an alternative solution that best meets your requirements at an affordable price, and if you have no financial constraints, the selection process becomes easier.

Readers' comments