Before You Buy a Washing Machine: 5 Things Every Irish Household Should Consider
Buying a new washing machine is a significant investment, and choosing the right model can save you time, money and frustration for years to come.
At Appliances Delivered, we help customers across Ireland choose the right washing machine every day. While features and technology continue to evolve, the same key questions remain:
- Will it fit?
- Is it the right capacity?
- Will it be efficient to run?
- Which brand offers the best value?
- Will it meet your family's needs?
Before you buy, here are the five most important factors to consider.
Browse all washing machines:
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1. Measure Your Space Before Ordering
Many customers focus on features first and measurements second, but ensuring your new washing machine fits comfortably into its intended space should always be your starting point.
Before ordering, measure:
- Width
- Height
- Depth
- Door clearance
- Access routes into your home
Don't forget to allow extra room for water hoses and ventilation.
Shop freestanding washing machines:
https://www.appliancesdelivered.ie/laundry/washing-machines/
Appliances Delivered Expert Tip
If you're replacing an older machine, don't assume the dimensions are the same. Modern washing machines often offer larger capacities while maintaining similar footprints, but depths can vary considerably.
2. Freestanding or Integrated?
One of the most common mistakes we see is customers ordering a freestanding washing machine when they actually need an integrated model.
Freestanding Washing Machines
- Visible appliance
- Easier installation
- Larger choice of models
- Usually better value
Integrated Washing Machines
- Hidden behind a kitchen cabinet door
- Seamless kitchen appearance
- Designed specifically for fitted kitchens
If your existing machine has a furniture door attached to the front, you'll almost certainly need another integrated model.
Shop integrated washing machines:
https://www.appliancesdelivered.ie/laundry/integrated-washing-machines/

3. Choose the Right Capacity
Choosing the correct drum size is crucial.
7kg Washing Machines
Best for:
- Single people
- Apartments
- Light washing needs
8kg Washing Machines
Best for:
- Couples
- Smaller households
9kg Washing Machines
Best for:
- Most Irish families
- School uniforms
- Sports gear
- Bedding and towels
10kg+ Washing Machines
Best for:
- Larger families
- Heavy laundry users
- Bulky items
Our Recommendation
For most Irish homes, a 9kg washing machine offers the best balance of capacity, efficiency and value.

Shop family-size washing machines:
https://www.appliancesdelivered.ie/laundry/washing-machines/
4. Think About Spin Speed
Spin speed affects how much water is removed from clothes during the wash cycle.
1200rpm
Ideal for:
- Everyday laundry
- Smaller households
1400rpm
Ideal for:
- Families
- Faster drying times
- Reduced tumble dryer usage
1600rpm
Ideal for:
- Heavy laundry users
- Large households
A higher spin speed means clothes leave the machine drier, which can reduce drying times significantly.
Shop washing machines online:
https://www.appliancesdelivered.ie/laundry/washing-machines/
5. Check Energy Efficiency
With rising energy costs, efficiency is more important than ever.
Modern washing machines feature:
- Eco programmes
- Automatic load sensing
- Inverter motors
- Water-saving technology
An energy-efficient washing machine can help reduce household running costs while lowering environmental impact.
Which Brand Should You Choose?
Bosch Washing Machines
Bosch is one of our most popular washing machine brands. Customers love the reliability, quiet operation and excellent energy efficiency.
Shop Bosch washing machines:
https://www.appliancesdelivered.ie/laundry/washing-machines/?brand=Bosch
Whirlpool Washing Machines
Whirlpool offers outstanding value and practical features, making it a great choice for families and first-time buyers.
Shop Whirlpool washing machines:
https://www.appliancesdelivered.ie/laundry/washing-machines/?brand=Whirlpool
Miele Washing Machines
Miele is widely recognised as a premium appliance brand, offering exceptional build quality and long-term durability.
Shop Miele washing machines:
https://www.appliancesdelivered.ie/laundry/washing-machines/?brand=Miele
The best washing machine isn't necessarily the most expensive one. It's the machine that fits your home, your lifestyle and your laundry habits.
By considering space, capacity, machine type, spin speed and energy efficiency before you buy, you'll be in a much stronger position to choose the right appliance.
If you're unsure which model is best for your home, our team is always happy to help.
Browse our full range of washing machines today and discover models from Bosch, Whirlpool, Miele and many more leading brands.
https://www.appliancesdelivered.ie/laundry/washing-machines/
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