We’ve looked at the UK integrated washing machine market and found the best there is to assist you in your next purchase. This piece will highlight the key selling points as well as any known weaknesses. Alongside the best overall integrated machine, you will also find a recommendation for a high-quality budget model.
If you are in a hurry, our no 1 integrated washing machine is the Bosch WIW28501GB model. To skip to this section click on the content list below.
Table of Contents
What is an integrated washing machine?
Integrated washing machines do the same job and operate in the same way as their more conventional freestanding counterparts. The only significant difference is in their structural design.
These machines are designed to integrate seamlessly into your kitchen cabinets, giving your kitchen a more organised and sleeker look. An integrated washing machine isn’t just about aesthetic appeal, they also come with all the top features and functions of a freestanding machine, to ensure your laundry is a breeze.
If you want to move away from the regular bulky washing unit and conceal your washing machine, an integrated washer should be top of your list.
What is a semi-integrated washing machine?
While a fully integrated washing machine remains concealed behind cupboard doors, its semi-integrated relative leaves a small space at the top to enable you to operate and view its control panel. Everything else is similar to the fully integrated models including how they function and even their price ranges. However, the popularity of semi-integrated washers looks to be on the decline with very few of them available on the market today.
Why choose an integrated washing machine?
Not everyone wants a constantly visible washing appliance, this could be for aesthetic preferences or due to space limitations. With an integrated washing machine you easily close your unit off, leaving your kitchen or utility room looking cleaner and more unified.
Integrated washers and driers are also comparatively less noisy compared to freestanding models. There are a couple of reasons for this. First, they operate behind doors (literally) which means some of the noise they produce is damped down. Also, most of them come with slower spin cycle speeds and heavy insulation to minimise vibrations.
If choosing an integrated washing machine there are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
- Requires less space due to its compact size.
- Discreet design that doesn’t interfere with your kitchen interior.
- Less noise compared to freestanding models.
Cons
- They can be pricier than most comparable freestanding models.
- Users with big families may find that the load capacity is too small.
What should I look for when buying an integrated washing machine?
The increasing popularity of integrated washers has seen manufacturers release lots of different models into the market as they seek to satisfy the growing demand. The result. Plenty of options that make choosing the most suitable washer a lot more complicated! These are some essential features to look for when making your buying decision:
Load capacity
A washer’s load capacity refers to the maximum recommended weight that its drum can hold at one time. Drum sizes vary although most integrated machines carry between 5-9kgs (with freestanding models going up to 12kg). How much you need is primarily dependent on the number of people in your household.
To give you a practical idea of how drum sizes are measured, 1kg of laundry equals to five standard shirts or two bath towels or one shirt + a pair of denim jeans.
Spin speed
A washing machine’s spin speed determines how much water is left when a cycle completes. Usually, most integrated washer dryers have spin speed ranges of between 1000-1600rpm (revolutions per minute). The higher the rpm, the dryer your laundry will be at the end of the wash cycle.
Economy
Two of the most important factors to consider when choosing a top integrated washing machine are energy efficiency and water economy. You want to purchase an appliance that uses as little of these valuable resources as possible. Not only will it lower your costs but it will also reduce your carbon footprint.
Concerning energy efficiency, all household appliances now carry a label that shows their energy ratings. They also indicate the approximate number of kilowatt-hours that the appliance uses per year. Ratings range from A+++ (best efficiency) down to G (inefficient). Anything above A+ should be able to save you sufficient money in electricity bills every year, but it’s best to go for A+++ rated machines where possible.
When it comes to water efficiency, most washing machines now include a water-efficiency label alongside the energy label. This will indicate how many litres of water is used per kilogram of load. Some of the most efficient machines use as little as 6 litres of water per kilogram. Whilst the least water-efficient machines can reach up to 14 litres per kilogram.
Better technology can also contribute to improved efficiency. A key feature to look out for is auto-load sensing. This function enables a washing machine to automatically determine the load size and, consequently, the amount of water needed for an effective wash.
Another solid feature is quick wash, which is a valuable function if your clothes require light washing, or you are in a hurry. Instead of running through the full cycle, your cycle can be completed in as little as 10 minutes, saving more water and electricity.
Special features
The overall ability of a washing machine is at times judged based on how many extra functions it comes with. The more the features, the more efficient and useful it’s likely to be. Some of the key functions to consider here are special programmes for cleaning materials like cotton, delicate clothing, duvets, and synthetic material. Others include support for extra-high temperature washes and removal of stubborn stains like grime.
You might also consider child-proofing your kitchen and minimising avoidable accidents by going for a machine with security features such as a child and door lock.
Are all integrated washing machines the same size?
The simple answer is no but most integrated washers have a standard size of approximately:
- Height 82cm
- Width 60cm
- Depth 55cm
There are some that don’t conform to this but most do. Variations, however, are quite small, I have come across a machine 90cm tall and another which was 58cm deep.
This makes it incredibly important to always confirm that your unit will fit the allocated space. Ideally, you want it to be as snug as possible. This will give your machine the support it needs and minimise unnecessary movement.
When measuring up don’t forget to leave some extra space at the back to accommodate water and waste pipes. A minimum of 7cm clearance is recommended.
Best integrated machines
There are our top four picks based on factors including price, energy efficiency, water efficiency, drum size and special features.
No 1: Bosch WIW28501GB
Bosch WIW28500GB model details |
|
| Price (£) | 799 |
| Energy rating | C |
| Water usage (litres) | 11000 |
| Drum size (kg) | 8kg |
| Quick wash (min) | 15 |
| Special programmes | EcoSilence Drive, VarioPerfect, 3D AquaSpa system |
| Dimensions (cm | H87.5 x W66 x D69 |
No 2: NEFF W544BX1GB
NEFF W544BX1GB model details |
|
| Price (£) | 725 |
| Energy rating | C |
| Water usage (litres) | 11000 |
| Drum size (kg) | 8 |
| Quick wash (min) | 15 |
| Special programmes | 24-hour delay timer, Anti-stain, drum clean |
| Dimensions (cm) | H87.5 x W66 x D69 |
No 3: AEG L7FE7461BI
AEG L7FE7461BI model spec |
|
| Price (£) | 478 |
| Energy rating | F |
| Water usage (litres) | 10500 |
| Drum size (kg) | 7 |
| Quick wash (min) | 20 |
| Special programmes | 20 wash programmes, ProSense technology, Eco TimeSave function |
| Dimensions (cm) | H81.9 x W59.6 x D54 |
Best Budget: Logik LIW814W20
Logik LIW814W20 model spec |
|
| Price (£) | 299 |
| Energy rating | B |
| Water usage (litres) | 11000 |
| Drum size (kg) | 8 |
| Quick wash (min) | 15 |
| Special programmes | Express 15, Rapid 45 |
| Dimensions (cm) | H87.5 x W68 x D60.5 |
Conclusion
When it comes to selecting a suitable integrated washing machine for your household, the last thing you want to do is over analyse your options. With tens of options begging for your attention, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and end up wasting valuable time or, worse still, making the wrong decision. The five models we’ve reviewed for you here are an excellent place to start. Weigh the pros and cons of each and choose the right one for you and your family.