Load capacity and household size
Decide this constraint or preference first. A feature is only useful if it improves your use case.
Australian buying guide
Washing machines: what actually matters before you buy
Narrow the market around the decision factors before comparing secondary features or retailer promotions.
Decision-first guide5 maintained products
Start with four decisions
Energy and WELS water efficiency
Decide this constraint or preference first. A feature is only useful if it improves your use case.
Automatic dosing and cycle automation
Decide this constraint or preference first. A feature is only useful if it improves your use case.
Spin speed, noise and quick-cycle needs
Decide this constraint or preference first. A feature is only useful if it improves your use case.
Dimensions, plumbing and installation
Decide this constraint or preference first. A feature is only useful if it improves your use case.
Why Australian Product Guide avoids one universal winner
A product that is excellent for one household can be a poor fit for another because budget, workflow, space or priorities differ.
Build a shortlist in three steps
- Use Help Me Choose.
- Use the comparison hub or select 2–4 products.
- Open product guides to inspect evidence and retailer options.
Common questions
Washing machines buying questions
What washing-machine capacity do I need?
Match capacity to normal household loads and bulky items rather than buying the largest drum by default. Nine kilograms is a common family-oriented size, but household patterns differ.
Is automatic detergent dosing worth it?
It can reduce measuring and overdosing, but it adds complexity and may matter less if you use specialised detergents or prefer manual control.
Should energy stars decide the purchase?
Efficiency matters over a long appliance life, but installation fit, water use, reliability support, cycles and load size also change the decision.