Gone are the days when people would spend hours rubbing and brushing the clothes to take off all the dirt and filth from them. Today, every household has a washing machine that takes absolutely no time to wash and dry piles of clothes.
But not every household has the same laundry requirement. Hence, various washing machine companies are persistently trying to put something new and better on the table to entertain the growing needs of the customers. As a result, we have a specific type of washing machine for each of our laundry woes.
For instance, depending on the total number of automatic features, washing machines are categorized into two types:
- Fully automatic
- Semi-automatic
And, depending on the position of loading the clothes, washing machines are of two types:
- Top Loading
- Front Loading
- Portable
With so many types of washing machines available on the market, picking the best washing machine is not an easy task. So, if you have a special laundry need and are looking for a machine that could solve your specific problem, let’s discuss each type one by one.
What are the Different Types of Washing Machines?
- Fully automatic washing machine
The fully-automatic washing machine does complete justice to the basic idea behind the invention of washing machines as it eliminates all the efforts that washing clothes demand and does not even let you do the slightest of the work except touching the touchpad a few times.
A fully-automatic machine comes with one tub, which serves three purposes – washing, drying, and rinsing clothes. It comes with a lot of new features and multiple washing modes that make washing clothes a cakewalk.
The machine has to be connected to a water source so that it could automatically pull water according to the number and weight of clothes.
It also features detergent storage, which you need to refill from time to time.
- Semi-automatic washing machine
As the name says, a semi-automatic washing machine does not operate totally on its own. It is partially automatic, and hence, you need to do a little work to get the laundry done.
A semi-automatic washing machine comes with a separate washer and dryer. So, you get two tubs with two different timers to set the washing and drying times. In this type of machine, you have to fill the tub, add the detergent, set the timer, rinse the clothes, and dry them.
This type of washing machine is always top loading. It is ideal for those who don’t want to invest too much on a washing machine and need a washing machine for washing regular clothes. Although you can wash heavy items in this machine, you have to manually remove the clothes from the washer and dryer, which is a cumbersome task.
- Top-loading washing machine
As the name suggests, this kind of washing machine is loaded from the top. The vessel is covered from the top with a lid, which can be removed to load and unload the clothes.
A top-loading washing machine is feasible for people who face problems in bending down. As the machine is loaded and unloaded from the top, using this type of machine is easier and convenient for people with back problems and elderly citizens.
- Front loading washing machine
In this type of washing machine, clothes are loaded from the front. This washing machine is always fully-automatic and comes with the most technologically-advanced features to ensure better cleaning in less time.
Since it is more efficient than a top-loading machine, the majority of people prefer buying it. Furthermore, if you are looking for a more eco-friendly washing machine, you must invest in a front loading washing machine as it uses less water, electricity, and detergent.
Front-loading washing machines are further divided into two sections, depending upon the washer and dryer usage. This type of machine comes with either separate or a combo of washer and dryer.
Front-loading washing machines with washer and dryer combo
This type of washing machine comes with only one vessel that acts as a washer and dryer. Washer and dryer combo is apt for you if you don’t have enough space to place a separate tumble dryer in your home. Plus, as you buy just one appliance to take care of both washing and drying, it does not drill a hole in your pocket. However, it will take you a little longer to do your laundry in this machine. Also, drying isn’t very effective.
Front-loading washing machine with separate washer and dryer
This type of machine has a separate washer and dryer, and hence, it is more expensive than a combo. But the biggest benefit of having a separate washer and dryer is that it takes very little time in washing and drying the clothes. This machine allows you to wash more clothes in less time, making it the best choice for people who are always pressed for time.
- Portable washing machine
A portable washing machine, also known as a compact washing machine, is tiny and easy to move. Some machines are equipped with a handle, which helps in carrying them around.
A portable washing machine is the best option for you if you keep changing your home or live in a very compact space, RV, or hostel. Otherwise, there are other better and more practical options available on the market.
As this machine is small, it is capable of taking up only smaller loads at a time. So, washing clothes in it is a time-consuming process.
The Bottom Line
While all the types of washing machines have their own pros and cons, which one you choose, it all depends on personal choice. Whether you live in a large space or small space or you do your laundry thrice a week or wash clothes only on the weekend, you will surely find a washing machine suiting your needs and preferences. Now, you know what different kinds of washing machines are available on the market, choose the one that can cater to your needs.
