A washing machine designed to hold a 7kg load is likely to be able to hold the equivalent of a double duvet or about 35 shirts. They’re best-suited to small families or couples who do the laundry several times a week.
Getting a washing machine that’s the right size for you is essential. Regularly under or overfilling the drum means that the programs and features won’t work to their full potential and the machine will be less efficient over time. This may seem like a small problem, but throughout a year, those small differences can add up to higher costs. The only situation when this isn’t an issue is if you choose a washing machine with a sensor function that adjusts the program to suit the weight of each load.
Standard washing machines generally have a drum capacity anywhere between 6kg and 12kg. The most common in the UK are 7kg and 8kg. As a result, there are numerous 7kg options to choose from; however, there can be a vast difference in functionality and efficiency from one model to the next. We’ve chosen the washing machines on this list to help you find well-built, reliable models that offer unbeatable value for money.
If you’re easily confused by the mass of features and program settings on modern machines, start by visiting our Guide to buying a washing machine. It will take you through each of the features you’re likely to find and help you decide which models are right for you.
In a hurry to know our overall top eco washing machine? We rank the Zanussi Z712W43BI as the best integrated 7kg washing machine in the UK and the Beko WTK74011A as best freestanding 7kg machine. If you’re on a budget, we recommend the Logik L712WM20.
Best 7kg Washing Machines
Here are our picks for the top five 7kg washing machines based on value, programmes, features, functionality, economy and capacity.
No 1: Beko WTK74011A
Beko WTK74011A Model Specification
Price (£) | 249 |
Energy rating | D (Wash performance A, Spin performance B) |
Water usage (litres) | 10339 |
Spin speed (rpm) | 1400 |
Load capacity (kg) | 7 |
Special programmes | Quick wash, hand wash |
Dimensions (cm) | (H)88 x (W)65 x (D)56 |
This stylish anthracite machine is ideal for a family of 3-4. It offers incredible value and an impressively low price despite packing in numerous extra features. Including 15 wash programmes and a childlock to prevent little fingers from interfering with your wash.
It’s been awarded a D energy rating following the new system but we found it to perform well and it still has a wash performance of A and spin performance of B. Sensors are included to closely monitor each load and tailor the programme to ensure you get the best results every time.
A few other features that we liked included a stylish digital display that informs you how much time remains until the end of a cycle. We were also very impressed with the quick wash that can clean a full 7kg load in less than half an hour.
All told, if you’re looking for a 7kg washer that gets the job done and offers responsive sensor programming alongside many other useful features, then this Beko model is a serious contender!
No 2: Best Integrated – Zanussi Z712W43BI
Zanussi Z712W43BI Model Specification
Price (£) | 499 |
Energy rating | F |
Water usage (litres) | 10499 |
Spin speed (rpm) | 1200 |
Load capacity (kg) | 7 |
Special programmes | Quick wash, handwash, overflow protection |
Dimensions (cm) | (H)82 x (W)60 x (D)54 |
[letsreviewunique title=”Zanussi Z712W43BI Integrated Washer” affiliate_title=”Buy the Zanussi Z712W43BI” affiliate=”BUY HERE,https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=1599&awinaffid=848795&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.currys.co.uk%2Fgbuk%2Fhousehold-appliances%2Flaundry%2Fwashing-machines%2Fzanussi-z714w43bi-integrated-7-kg-1400-spin-washing-machine-10185021-pdt.html” accent=”#f1c721″ final_score=”” format=”1″ skin=”1″ animation=”1″ design=”1″]Unlike the other items on this list, the Zanussi Z712W43BI is a fully integrated washer that blends effortlessly into your kitchen cabinets. It’s also among the quietest we came across as well as being economical with power and water.
The Flextime function helps you schedule your washing days better by allowing you to adjust the length of the full cycle. A delay timer lets you pre-set a wash programme by up to 9 hours, so your laundry is done when it’s most convenient for you.
On programmes, you get to choose from 15 options including Sport, Denim, Daily Wash and Easy Iron. The latter is particularly good news to anyone who hates ironing as clothes come out with minimal creasing. What stood out for us though was the wool/handwash programme for those super delicate fabrics you don’t want to be damaged in rough cycles!
Unfortunately, Zanussi only gives the standard 1-year warranty on this appliance. Also, there isn’t a 24-hour delay timer. Instead, you can only choose between 3, 6 and 9 hours.
Still, this is a quiet and economical built-in washer that’s perfect for those who love a unified look in their kitchen or laundry room.[/letsreviewunique]
No 3: Indesit IWC71452W
Indesit IWC71452W Model Specification
Price (£) | 210 |
Energy rating | E |
Water usage (litres) | 8850 |
Spin speed (rpm) | 1400 |
Load capacity (kg) | 7 |
Special programmes | Quick wash, auto load, sports, wool |
Dimensions (cm) | (H)85 x (W)59.5 x (D)51.7 |
[letsreviewunique title=”Indesit IWC71452W 7kg Washing Machine” affiliate_title=”Buy the Indesit IWC71452W” affiliate=”BUY HERE,https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=1599&awinaffid=848795&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.currys.co.uk%2Fgbuk%2Fhousehold-appliances%2Flaundry%2Fwashing-machines%2Findesit-iwc-71452-w-uk-n-7-kg-1400-spin-washing-machine-white-10212207-pdt.html” accent=”#f1c721″ final_score=”” format=”1″ skin=”1″ animation=”1″ design=”1″]Indesit machines are known to be durable and efficient and the IWC71452W is a testament to that. This washer strikes an excellent balance between cost and efficiency.
For starters, it comes with technology that enhances the power of the drum rotations for more effective stain removal and minimal wear and tear of fabrics. It also produces fewer and less intense vibrations resulting in a quieter performance.
This appliance also features a Water Balance feature that optimises water consumption and reduces wastage. It uses sensors to detect the size of each load and allow you to wash a smaller amount without wasting water.
Like all other best 7kg washers we’ve reviewed here, IWC71452W has a delay option that lets you set your wash cycle whilst the machine does the rest!
There are 16 programmes to ensure you never run out of options to deal with different types of loads. We were most impressed with the Baby cycle which offers a safe and gentle wash for those sensitive baby’s items. A lot of users say it removes allergens and dries stains quite effectively.
The Shoe Sport programme is a godsend for fitness and sports enthusiasts. Switch it on when you want to clean your sports shoes whilst still maintaining their shape and integrity.
Sadly, Indesit only offers a labour guarantee of just one year. Still, you won’t find many 7kg washing models with the efficiency of IWC71452W![/letsreviewunique]
Best Budget: Logik L712WM20
Logik L712WM20 Model Specification
Price (£) | 199 |
Energy rating | D |
Water usage (litres) | 10337 |
Spin speed (rpm) | 1200 |
Load capacity (kg) | 7 |
Special programmes | Quick wash, anti-allergy, sports wear |
Dimensions (cm) | (H)84.5 x (W)59.7 x (D)49.7 |
[letsreviewunique title=”Logik L712WM20 7kg Washing Machine” affiliate_title=”Buy the Logik L712WM20″ affiliate=”BUY HERE,https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=1599&awinaffid=848795&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.currys.co.uk%2Fgbuk%2Fhousehold-appliances%2Flaundry%2Fwashing-machines%2Flogik-l712wm20-7-kg-1200-spin-washing-machine-white-10206426-pdt.html” accent=”#f1c721″ final_score=”” format=”1″ skin=”1″ animation=”1″ design=”1″]Logik is known for its budget washers but they absolutely outdid themselves with the L712WM20. It sports some of the best specs you will find in a washing machine below £200. This includes a large LED display, A+++ energy efficiency rating and an anti-allergy care programme.
The LED display makes it easy to track your cycles by indicating how much time remains to the finish. There’s also a 24-hour delay timer that lets you start the washer when you deem suitable. A child lock feature is available to stop little ones from messing with your settings mid-cycle.
Logik gives you 15 wash programmes to take care of your different laundry needs. Are you in a hurry and want to clean a handful of clothes quickly before leaving the house? Or is your wardrobe full of delicates such as wool or silky fabrics? L712WM20 has you covered!
Not to forget the Allergy Safe programme which is extremely handy for people with sensitive skins or families with small children.
When it comes to energy and water consumption, Logik is quite frugal using up only about 1.19 kWh and 47 litres for a full load. This is even better than its pricier counterparts such as Zanussi Z712W43BI.
If you’re looking for a cheap 7kg washing machine with low running costs and a slim design, it’s hard to beat the Logik L712WM20.[/letsreviewunique]