How to Choose and Maintain a Washing Machine for Your Household (That Fits With Your Style)

laundry boot room inspo — *Fisher & Paykel laundry Photo credit: Victoria Summers.*

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Picking a washing machine might not sound that exciting, but there’s actually a whole range of machines out there now offering a variety of options to simplify doing the laundry. By carrying out just a little research, you will be able to select the perfect machine for your lifestyle, as well as choose a design that suits your interior decor. Let’s talk through what it takes to buy, maintain and ameliorate this must-have appliance.

laundry room inspiration — *Grafton Pendant Light, Dark & Lights Laundry Chest - all Garden Trading.*

Identifying Your Needs

Before rushing out to purchase a washing machine, it's important to identify your household needs and avoid picking one out on a whim that may just end up being the wrong choice. Instead, take the time to consider the following:

Size of Laundry Loads: Think about the size of your household and how much laundry you generate weekly.
Space Availability: Measure out the exact space where you plan to put your washer. Ensure that there is sufficient room for airflow, door opening and plumbing connections.
Budget Limitations: Determine how much you are willing to spend. Expensive doesn’t always mean better quality and it’s possible to get a designer kitchen on a budget if you’re savvy (washing machine included).
Special Features: Do you need certain aspects like quick wash options, handwash features, child locks, delay timers or smart technology that allows you to program your machine from your phone?

Understanding what makes an ideal washing machine for your particular lifestyle will help you choose wisely and avoid buyers remorse later on.

laundry room stacking and storage — *Purchase ORTHEX SmartStore Classic Storage via* *John Lewis & Partners.*

Matching your Washing Machine with Your Interior Design Style

Once you've identified your needs, it's time to think about aesthetics. The right washing machine can enhance your laundry room's design. Think about:

Colour Scheme: Consider a washer that compliments the colour palette of your space. Modern machines come in various shades ranging from classic white to sleek silver and even bold colours.
Finish Quality: matte or gloss? Think of the other appliances that you have in the room and select a similar finish for a cohesive look.
Size and Shape: Whether top-load or front-load, choose a shape that integrates seamlessly within the design elements of the room.

Your washing machine doesn't have to stick out like a sore thumb. If you choose a machine for practicalities rather than aesthetics, you can cover it with an on-trend machine skirt.

bespoke laundry room — *Painted Shaker Utility Room by* *Higham Furniture*

Pro Tips on Maintaining Your New Washing Machine

Spending time selecting a washing machine that matches your style is wholeheartedly worthwhile, but you also need to justify such a major purchase by maintaining this appliance to prolong its lifespan. Follow these useful tips to keep your washing machine in good working order:

Regular Cleaning: Run a clean cycle periodically to prevent buildup of detergent and fabric softener. Use a special washing machine cleaner that also removes limescale.
Load Management: Overloading can strain the motor, so stick to recommended load capacities.
Genuine Parts Replacement: If repairs are necessary, use genuine parts only. For instance, buying official Beko washing machine parts on a reputable website ensures quality compatibility and longevity for your washer.

Your washing machine is an investment worth safeguarding. Proper maintenance will keep it running efficiently for years to come and avoid unnecessary costs or breakdowns.

Accessorise Your Appliance

It’s worth pointing out that you can breathe new life into your washing machine's appearance, or deal with the deficiencies of a new purchase, using the following style-boosting strategies:

Add Cabinetry: Tuck away your appliance in a stylish cabinet with a bespoke door.
Spray it: You can buy specialist appliance paint if you want to change the colour!
Surrounding Decor Items: Install a floating shelf or worktop over your machine to distract the eye away from the machine to the more appealing items above it.

These small changes can make a big difference!

laundry room storage organization — *Image credit: Orthex Group*