Best Fully automatic Front-Loading washing machines in India.
For most users, LG FH0FANDNL02 is the best fully automatic front-loading washing machine in India. Occupying minimum space, it cleans up to 6 kg of dirty laundry. And it’s especially good at getting rid of tough stains.
The fact that it uses less water and power, is another perk in a long list of features.
However if you want to explore other options before making a final decision, keep reading below.
Bosch WAB16060IN (6 kg)
Are you a bachelor, room-mates or a working couple with a small kid? Then this front-loading washing machine will interest you.
The wash drum that you put your clothes in, can hold up to 6 kg of dirty laundry. This spells good news especially for single or double users.
You can keep adding the soiled (dirty) clothes and turn on the machine only when it gets full.
(A 6 kg load can take 2 pairs of office clothes, 2 pairs of comfy clothes along with towels and other smaller garments.) You can work out how frequently you need to use the washing machine based on the load of dirty laundry you generate.
What this machine ensures is that it doesn’t hog up space in your kitchen, stays quiet during most of the washing cycle and completes washing with optimum use of water & electricity.
Although most users end up using only one wash cycle, this machine lets you explore different ways of getting your clothes clean with wash programmes like ‘pre-wash’, ‘super clean’, ‘stains’, ‘super 30’ etc.
These wash programmes may not seem very helpful initially. But you’ll be thankful for them on one of those occasional ‘heavily-soiled Holi clothes’ type days.
You can also add clothes during a wash cycle, by pressing pause. This feature comes handy when adding that tie or handkerchief you forgot to add.
With a reputable brand like Bosch you can expect nothing less than superior performance and responsive after sales service.
LG is a pioneer in consumer electronics and durables, so how could it lag behind in being the perfect laundry-man?
And thus, it has done it again in the washing machine range by introducing unique 6 motion control and inverter direct drive technology.
Both these technologies are LG’s quest to mimic the hand-washing way of cleaning clothes without the downsides of hand-washed clothes like damaged fabrics.
As this is a front-loading machine, the tub/drum that you add clothes in, doesn’t need to be filled to capacity with water. With lesser quantity of water than its top-loading counterparts, this one can clean up to 6 kg of your dirty laundry.
The horizontal alignment of the drum is quite useful. As the drum rotates with the help of its unique direct drive motor (i.e. motor directly attached to the drum for better performance) the clothes are tossed within.
The rapid rotation of the drum makes the clothes fall on each other. This combined with the water (often hot), detergent and the inner surface of the drum recreates the scrubbing action.
Without damaging the fabric, the clothes are washed in minimum time.
The inverter motor adds to the machine’s durability and also helps save up on your electricity bills in the long term.
You can rest assured that the washing machine will last you a long time owing to LG’s reliability and its advanced technology.
Ideal for a family of 2-3 people, this washing machine offers a value-packed deal at an affordable price!
A 6.5 kg capacity washing machine might not look any different from a 6 kg one, but it can surely add to the machine’s performance.
A good fit for a family of 2-3 adults, this one is compact and spacious at the same time. How?
Well the slight 0.5 kg increase in its capacity lets you add almost 2 pairs of office clothes in the wash drum. But space-wise there isn’t much difference compared to a 6 kg washing machine, so your kitchen won’t get congested.
You can also choose to run the washing machine on alternate days or after every 2 days instead of daily, owing to its larger capacity.
This will not just save your efforts but also help you save water and money in the long term.
Another reason to buy this one instead of a top loading washing machine, is its performance.
If your daily pile of clothes frequently includes heavily soiled sports uniforms, delicate fabrics (like chiffon, lace, silk etc.) and socks, this front-loader can do a better job at washing than a top-loader.
The machine is designed to handle voltage fluctuations and can resume its cycle even if there are frequent power cuts in your area.
All-in-all, what you get is a compact yet spacious washing machine at the price of a 6 kg one!
This front-loader from Bosch is a high-efficiency front-load washer with sensors for how soiled the clothes are, and what the water and detergent levels should be.
This makes it perfect for all types of clothes be it silk, wool, cotton, synthetic, or chiffon.
The 7 kg large wash drum is one of the biggest in this size segment and is suitable for a family of 4-5 adults.
This machine also lets you reload clothes in-between a wash cycle so you won’t have to wait for the next cycle of washing to get it clean.
After the clothes are washed with detergent-water mix, the dirty water is drained. Fresh water pours in for rinsing which is followed by getting rid of the water.
This happens multiple times.
The last stage of a wash cycle called ‘spin dry’ involves the rotation of the drum that holds the clothes.
The wash drum rotates at a very high speed (measured in RPM: rotations per minute). This pushes out any excess moisture from the clothes similar to ‘wringing’ action.
The faster the drum rotates, the better is the drying. The wash drums of most washing machines rotate about 500-1000 times per minute.
However, this washing machine’s drum rotates at 1200 RPM, shortening the time taken for the ‘spin dry’ stage along with better drying.
Overall, this one is a value-packed washing machine for any modern household.
This 8 kg front loading washing machine offers a roomy option for a bulk wash.
Suitable for large families of 6 or more adults this one might take up more space but can wash the load of as many as 8-9 adults!
However, care should be taken to ensure the laundry generated has medium to less soil (or dirt) and doesn’t exceed the 8 kg mark.
Typically, capacity of washing machines can go up to 12 kgs, but they lose their efficiency. Larger machines are just not as efficient as 7-8 kg front loaders.
Even if you live in a joint family, it is wiser to run 2 loads in a day (for occasionally large loads) rather than buying a bulkier 10-12 kg washing machine.
This machine also lets you add clothes mid-way in the wash cycle and also lets you set time delay.
The wash drum of this machine can rotate up to 1400 times in a minute! What this means, is the drying time will be shorter, thus shortening the overall wash cycle time.
Also, the high RPM of the drum ensures better drying of clothes with lesser time needed for the clothes to air dry.
Since 8 kg machines are expected to wash a heavier load, the warranty on these is different than other washing machines. You get a comprehensive warranty for 4 years including the motor.
Best Fully automatic Top-Loading washing machines in India
In the fully automatic top loading washing machine segment, most users loved LG’s T7569NDDLH. It is compact, pocket-friendly, and suits most small to medium sized families.
In addition to that, its exclusive inverter technology makes it an energy efficient performer.
However if you want to explore other options before making a final decision, keep reading below.
Samsung WA62M4100HY/TL (6.2 kg)
This top loader from Samsung offers the most bang for the buck in the popular size range of 6-7 kg. Ideal for a family of 2-3 adults this machine takes convenience to a different level.
Unlike the older versions of top loading models, the top cover of this one is made of transparent tempered glass. This makes the cover durable and gives you a clear view of what’s going on inside.
The top loader makes loading and unloading simpler. You can keep adding clothes as you go about your day and start the wash at night or early morning, as you leave for office. This ensures you don’t miss adding any clothes.
And even if you do, you can just add them between a wash cycle.
If your laundry includes delicate garments of silk, chiffon or lace then this top-loader is well prepared to handle them with care. This one comes with Samsung’s diamond drum which ensures the machine gets your clothes clean without being too rough on them.
In fact, you even get a specialized wash cycle that is designed to handle delicate fabrics gently. Other wash cycles like ‘normal’, ‘quick wash’, ‘tub clean’, and ‘blanket’ are self-explanatory and adjust the wash programme as per your needs.
And last but not the least, the machine’s silver colour gives it an attractive look that can also hide lighter stains. All-in-all this is a high-performance top-loader at a pocket-friendly price!
Are you looking for a washing machine that gets your clothes clean, costs less, looks good and doesn’t need much maintenance? Well, you’re looking at it!
All washing machines these days do a good job of getting your clothes clean, so what makes this one different? Well, the secret lies in the not-so-visible aspects.
This top loader from LG comfortably cleans up to 6.5 kgs of clothes without taking much space in your kitchen or dry balcony. But it does that at an unbelievable price!
Check out any 6.5 kg front loader washing machine (from a reliable brand) and you will see that each one costs above 20000, while this top loader from LG costs below it.
It is also easier to maintain than a front-loader and less prone to breakdowns.
If your kitchen is especially crowded, a front-loader can become a hassle as the door gets in the way or a person blocking the path while loading or unloading. Top loaders have no such problem and can snugly fit in any kitchen.
LG offers 8 wash cycles in this machine, unlike its other counterparts, giving you more options for personalizing the wash cycle. Overall, this one is a good buy for working couples or young parents.
If you’re looking for a budget washing machine from a reliable brand then Bosch WOE654W0IN is the way to go. This top loader from Bosch has a stylish black & white design, and touch screen panel which will blend into any modern kitchen.
This machine is one of the quietest models in the 6.5 kg category of both front-loaders and top loaders. It also offers the best value for money in this category.
It has everything you want in an efficient washing machine— stainless steel drum, 8 wash programmes, high-efficiency filter and low maintenance. This machine can also perform well in low water pressure conditions and can resume from where it left off in case of a power cut.
As it’s a top loader, loading and unloading is easy and clothes can be added even in the middle of a wash cycle. Only unloading may prove to be a bit taxing if you have back or neck problems, especially when you have to bend inside to reach that stray sock.
In terms of brand reliability, most users find Bosch washing machines one of the longer lasting models with an estimated life of 10 to 11 years. German engineering expertise in consumer durables is really brought to the forefront with this top-loader!
With 12 wash programmes this top loader from Whirlpool gives you a lot of choices for a personalized experience. This 7 kg model comes with ample drum space, enough to hold the dirty load of 4-5 adults.
The washer drum uses a combination of agitator and impeller called Agipeller for getting rid of tough dirt. The machine comes with smart sensors that detects voltage and water conditions to adapt accordingly.
And as your clothes get clean, the lint filter efficiently removes any dirt and debris and keeps it from clogging the machine.
The hard water wash mode is a feature exclusive to this top loader. It adapts the washing conditions to maintain the quality of your clothes.
The transparent window allows a clear view into the wash tub. Adding and removing clothes mid-cycle is possible with this top-loader machine.
The machine’s grey and black body hides food or dirt stains, unlike white coloured washing machines. This also adds a stylish look to the top loader.
If you’re looking for a budget washing machine for a medium-sized family, this one is just right!
Suitable for large families of more than 6 adults, this 8 kg model brings LG’s superior technology and brand value with it!
The machine comes with smart inverter technology which combined with the high drum speed reduces the overall energy consumption. The drum is equipped with 4 pulsators that generate water streams in vertical direction for effective washing.
Although front loaders are more popular for cleaning tough stains, this top loader will give them a tough competition.
In fact, you can even select how dirty the particular load is; is it lightly soiled, normal or heavily soiled?
LG’s top loader comes attached to a smart cover. If you’re used to just banging the cover you won’t have to worry about breaking it off its hinges. The door takes its own time to close.
But this product’s biggest perk lies in its brand value. With over 1000 service centres spread across India, LG is one of the most highly responsive brands in terms of after-sales service. (The situation may be different in your area, so check for nearby service centres before you make the final buy).
Washing Machine Buying Guide.
How do washing machines work?
Every day we put our dirty laundry in the Washing machine and out come clean, fragrant and almost dry clothes.
Have you ever wondered how the washing machine does that? Well, let’s dig deeper.
The Working:
Modern day washing machines come in two types, top-loading and front-loading. The part of washing machine, in which we dump our dirty laundry is called the tub or drum.
This drum is aligned vertically in a top loading machine and horizontally in a front loading one. It is the drum where all the action (washing) takes place.
To understand how the washing machine does the ‘washing’ let’s compare it to washing clothes by hand.
Hand-washing, involves scrubbing clothes with a brush or rubbing the clothes on each other to create ‘friction’.
With water and a detergent, the washing becomes quicker as the dirt or sweat stains dissolve in the soapy water. A washing machine copies the same steps used in hand washing clothes— soak, wash, rinse and dry (‘spin’ in washing machine terms).
And all these actions take place in the ‘drum’.
Water and detergent is supplied to the drum. But how does the drum recreate the scrubbing action?
Once the clothes are soaked, the drum starts moving/ rotating. The clothes get tossed inside the drum, rubbing against each other and the inner surface of the drum.
The water mixed with detergent, enters and starts doing it job— chemically loosening any dirt, stains and particles.
The rotating drum, soapy water and the clothes getting tossed around in the drum, effectively recreate the ‘washing’ step, which is the main purpose of a washing machine.
The dirty water is then drained and fresh water pours in to rinse the clothes.
So, that the clothes won’t start dripping the moment you take them out, they undergo the last step i.e. ‘Spin dry’. In this the drum rotates at a very high speed (creating a centrifugal force).
This, mimics the ‘wringing’ action, and rids the clothes of excess water. The clothes are then ready to be air-dried.
The washing machine parts that play a crucial role in these steps are the tubs, motor, pump, valves and programmer among others.
The tub/ drum:
- The washing machine comes with a tub (in which we dump our clothes) that is also called as washer or drum. This tub, if you look closely, has holes and some parts that look like bumps.
- In top-loading machines the tub stands vertically, while it is horizontally aligned in front-loading machines.
- The protruding parts in the drum of a top-loading washing machine, are called propellers. These work like a rod, to stir the clothes around, when washing.
- Front-loading machines too have propellers, but they don’t stick out like the ones in top-loaders.
- The tiny holes in tubs of both type of washing machines, are tasked with filling and emptying the tubs with water, during the washing cycle.
But where does the water come from and why doesn’t it leak out when the washing is on? That’s because there’s another tub surrounding the perforated tub.
The outer tub/drum:
Enveloping the inner drum, is a slightly larger outer tub (that we can’t see) which is like a simple bucket. It doesn’t have any holes or agitators.
Its only job is to contain the water and prevent it from damaging the mechanical parts of the washing machine like the electric motor, pump, inlet-outlet valves/pipes and the programmer.
The detergent water fills in the outer tub first, and enters the inner tub through the holes. After the soaking and washing is done, it is drained out with the help of the pump.
Again, the tub is filled with water for rinsing (often multiple times) and drained again.
The outer drum thus, keeps the rotating and vibrating inner drum separate from the other mechanical parts of the washing machine.
The core Mechanical components
The electric motor, pump, inlet-outlet pipes, thermostat, programmer among others, form the core components of a fully-automatic washing machine.
All of these are neatly arranged inside the metal/plastic box (i.e. the washing machine’s body) we see from the outside.
These parts are arranged around the outer drum, which keeps the mechanism away from the washing going on in the inner drum. Let’s have a look at the major parts:
Motor
The motor is in charge of the inner drum’s movement, be it rotating clockwise, anti-clockwise or spinning it to get rid of moisture.
Since most of us use washing machine on a daily basis, this motor has a fixed job for itself; to ensure smooth working of the inner drum. It is also the part on which, manufacturers offer the longest warranty of about 10 years.
There are two ways a motor works. The first is the standard on/off mode. In this, the motor when on, runs at full speed to do its job. Then it switches off.
This repeated on/off during each washing cycle, consumes more electricity and may lead to the motor’s early breakdown.
Newer washing machine models come with an inverter motor. This motor when turned on, switches off only after the entire washing is done.
It also runs at different speeds so as to save electricity, making these type of washing machines more energy efficient and durable.
Some brands even offer Direct Drive (LG) or Quick Drive (Samsung) motors. What this means is the motor is directly attached to the drums, ensuring better movement of the inner drum along with reduced vibration and noise.
Pump
The pump is responsible for supplying and draining water, on an as needed basis.
Depending on the load of clothes, level of soil (i.e. how dirty the clothes are) and the wash cycle that you’ve chosen, the pump supplies suitable quantity of water.
It works with the thermostat and heating element to warm the water to the required wash temperature.
The pump also helps recirculate the water, and to drain it multiple times during a wash cycle.
Programmer
Programmer is the part of washing machine that we interact with.
It is the entire panel containing knobs, buttons and dials which lets us select the wash cycle, temperature, time and other settings.
Although many washing machines offer many wash cycles, we often end up using only one. Hence, the number of wash cycles is not a decision-making factor when selecting the best washing machine for your home.
Fully-Automatic vs Semi-Automatic Washing machine— Which is better?
Semi-automatic washing machines are older models that require your help to complete every wash cycle. You have to load clothes, pour a bucket of water, add detergent and choose wash settings.
After washing is done, you then have to transfer the dripping wet clothes in the dryer. After spinning (or drying) your help is needed again to unload the washing machine and air-dry the clothes.
Sounds like a lot of work, right?
Fully automatic washing machines, on the other hand, only need you to load the clothes, add detergent, choose a wash cycle and press start.
The washing machines takes care of the rest.
Hence, the biggest difference between a fully and semi automatic washing machine is of ‘freedom’.
Fully automatic washing machine requires no supervision. This frees up your time and energy, so you can pursue other chores or just relax.
Semi-automatic washing machines, require frequent intervention and labour from your side to clean your clothes.
Here’s a comparative view of fully and semi-automatic washing machines based on different parameters:
- Design
Semi-automatic washing machines frankly, look outdated with a very basic design that hasn’t changed much in decades.
These machines are also bulkier and not very pleasing to look at.
Fully automatic washing machines come in two types, front loading and top loading. Both these types are aesthetically appealing and come equipped with the latest technology in the washing machine segment.
- Performance
Semi-automatic washing machines:
Because of their basic design, semi-automatic washing machines need you to fill the drum with water before the cycle starts. After the washing is done, again you are required to transfer the clothes to the dryer.
Now, pouring a bucket full of water in the wash drum, transferring dripping wet clothes to the second drum and setting the wash settings in every stage may seem alright for a day.
But doing it every day will take a toll on your patience and your health.
If you’ve read my point on ‘how washing machine works’ then you know the wash drum has a protruding part called ‘agitator’.
The agitator’s purpose is to stir the clothes for better washing. However, this also results in a lot of fraying and pilling, thus damaging your clothes.
As semi-automatic machines come with two drums, the space inside each is quite congested. You cannot use them to wash bedsheets, comforters and other big items. These machines also tend to be noisier.
Semi-automatic washing machines do have their up-sides. They consume the least water and don’t need a continuous water connection.
They take less time to wash your clothes. And give you more control over the wash settings. However, the down-sides clearly outweigh the up-sides.
Fully-automatic Washing Machines:
Owing to their improving water and energy efficiency, effective cleaning and no supervision required, consumer preference is shifting towards fully automatic washing machines.
Fully automatic washing machines come with sensors that detect the load and the soil (i.e. how dirty the clothes are). They then adjust the water and detergent quantity for optimum washing.
Also, to stir the clothes around these machines use propellers or impellers. This protects your clothes from rough washing and long-term damage.
If there are frequent power cuts in your area, fully automatic machines are designed to resume their wash cycle from where it had stopped.
Overall, fully automatic washing machines perform better than semi-automatic ones as they save your efforts, and money in the long run; while efficiently cleaning your clothes.
- Price
Semi-automatic washing machines are significantly cheaper than fully automatic ones. The most basic model starts from 6000 Rupees and prices can go up to 30000 Rupees.
Fully automatic washing machines have a varying price bracket. Basic models with small capacity start from 10000 Rs. These can go up to 100000 Rs as the features increase.
There is also a category of ‘washer plus dryer’ type of machines (more common in Western countries). These are expectedly costlier and can go up to 200000 Rs.
Front loading or Top loading— Which fully automatic washing machine should you go for?
The only difference between a top-loader and a front-loader washing machine is in how you load the clothes, from front or the top.
Or is it?
Let’s have a look at what difference the loading type makes from a consumer’s point-of-view:
- Loading and unloading clothes
Top loading machines let you load clothes from the top. This makes it easy to throw in that shirt you forgot, right in the middle of a wash cycle.
Unloading the clothes is easy too. Unless, you have vertigo or neck problems.
In that case, the larger the washing machine you buy, the harder it will be to reach that stray sock lying at the bottom.
If you frequently suffer from back or neck problems, it’s better to go for a front-loading machine instead.
The only users not meant for front-loading machines are the ones with knee issues. So, if the one handling washing machine daily in your home, has knee issues, you might be better off with a top-loader.
- How your clothes turn out (Performance)
Wash drums of top loading machines come with either agitators or impellers. Both work like stirrers to move the clothes around to recreate scrubbing action.
However, this method of cleaning might still prove to be rough on fabrics. Your clothes may eventually start looking faded or frayed (stitches coming undone).
A front-loading machine, on the other hand, uses gravity to let the clothes tumble on top of each other. This, in presence of detergent, warm water and the surface of the drum, creates an effective scrubbing action, getting your clothes clean with minimal damage.
Even the wirecutter agrees, ‘A top-loader’s twisting wash motion (with or without an agitator) isn’t as effective as a front-loader’s tumbling wash’.
- Water and power usage
Top loaders need more water than front loaders. This is because, to soak all clothes the water levels need to be higher than the clothes pile.
Front loaders use tumbling action to wash clothes. So, they can make do with lesser water without affecting the washing performance.
In terms of electricity usage too, front-loaders are slightly better than top-loaders due to their water efficiency and design.
- Which will save your money right now? (Upfront price)
On e-commerce sites like Amazon, price of top loading washing machines ranges between 10000 to 60000 Rs. Front loading ones on the other hand, cost between 15000-200000 Rs.
So, if you’re on a tight budget, a top-loading washing machine may be more suitable to you.
If you don’t want to ‘settle’ for less efficient models you can expand your budget by availing the exchange offer, debit or credit card offers or by opting for an EMI plan.
- What capacity Washing machine best suits your needs?
Capacity of a washing machine is described in kilograms of clothes it can effectively clean in a single wash cycle. And how many kgs of dirty load your family generates daily will depend on the number of members in it.
| Number of members in the family | Recommended washing machine capacity |
| Up to 3 adults and 1 child | 6-6.5 kg |
| 4 or 5 adults | 7-7.5 kg |
| 6 or more adults | 8-10 kg |
Buying washing machine online vs. offline
Unlike buying stationary or books, washing machine is a significant and a costly purchase. As consumers, we all want the best deal in terms of price and exchange offer.
But the bigger question is WHERE to buy your new washing machine— online or offline? For this, you need to consider just three things:
- Delivery
- After sales service (i.e. installation and repairs)
- And Exchange of your old washing machine
- Delivery
Many consumers misunderstand the seller’s role. The job of any seller whether online or offline, is only to SELL and DELIVER the new washing machine. Installation and repairs are NOT the seller’s responsibilities.
Keeping this in mind, if you want your new washing machine to be delivered within the next 24 hours, going to your nearest consumer durables store is a better option.
However, if you’re willing to wait, then buying online will give you so many more options and deals to choose from!
When buying from Amazon, you can even select your preferred delivery slot, so your washing machine reaches you when you’re available. You can also return or replace the washing machine, if you find any issues with the delivered one.
- After sales service
Once the washing machine is delivered, the seller’s job ends. To get the washing machine installed, you have to contact the customer care centre of the manufacturing Company.
You can schedule a suitable time to get your washing machine installed by contacting the customer care. (When you buy offline, generally the retail store executives make that call for you).
Similarly, for repairs, it is the customer care you need to call and not the seller. This is why the brand of the washing machine becomes important, as the quality of the after sales service depends on it.
- Exchange of old washing machine
Buying a new washing machine almost always means discarding an old one. But wouldn’t it be better if you could scrape some value out of it?
Both online and offline sellers, let you get rid of your old washing machine with a small discount in the price of the new one.
When buying on Amazon, you’re asked for the brand, type, size and working condition of your old washing machine. You’re then given a discount that you can avail on your new washing machine.
The exchange procedure is simple. If you’ve opted for the exchange, the old washing machine gets picked up during the delivery of the new one. Convenient and transparent.
Another point to note is that salesmen in retail consumer durables stores get high commission on certain products. And hence they may aggressively ‘push’ those products on you. Don’t fall for it!
In conclusion, if you’re in a hurry then buying a washing machine from your nearest consumer durables store is the best option.
But if you want more variety, more offers and a good exchange rate for your old washing machine, buying online is the way to go. All from the comfort of your home!
FAQs
Q.1 Which Wash cycles really matter?
Every washing machine comes with a normal or daily wash cycle along with wash cycles specific to cleaning delicate fabrics, disinfecting them and for time saving.
Depending on your usage, identify which cycle will be of most use to you and check how many options you get in that category.
For example, for busy couples, time saving cycles like super 30, quick wash, only rinse and so on may be more suitable.
Q.2 Which washing machine brands give longer Warranty?
If you compare top loading and front-loading washing machines, most give a comprehensive warranty for 2 years and 10-year warranty on motor. So, in terms of warranty there isn’t much deal-breaking difference.
However, some larger 8 kg up models offer shorter warranty periods. Also, some may offer an additional 1- or 2-years warranty as a promotional offer.