If you’re looking for a cheap washing machine, you’re likely to be spoilt for choice. Many brands do one or two budget models that can be snapped up for close to £200. However, to make them so affordable, they often cut back on useful features, build quality, spin speed and economy.
We’ve trawled through all the bargains and narrowed them down to just five. Each machine on this list is cheap but also offers incredible value for money. We don’t have WiFi-controlled super-machines that adjust the settings automatically according to the weight of each load, but they will get the job done to a high standard. They’re well-built, reliable and have enough built-in programmes and extra features to meet all your laundry needs.
If you’re easily confused by the mass of buttons, dials and spin settings, start by visiting our Guide to buying a washing machine. It will take you through each of the features you’re likely to find on a modern machine and help you decide which models are right for you.
In a hurry to know our overall top cheap washing machine? We rank the Beko WTK84011W as the best washing machine in the UK if you’re on a budget.
Best cheap washing machines available in the UK
Here are our picks for the top three washing machines close to £200 based on price, programmes, economy and capacity.
No 1: Beko WTK84011W
Beko WTK84011W model details |
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| Price (£) | 249.99 |
| Energy rating | C |
| Water usage (litres) | 9899 |
| Spin speed (rpm) | 1400 |
| Load capacity (kg) | 8 |
| Special programmes | Quick 30°, Drum clean, spin + drain |
| Dimensions | H(88) x W(65) x D(60) |
Beko has been quietly gaining a foothold in the washing machine space and among its latest low-priced releases is the WTK84011W model. The washer, which can effectively clean a full 8kg load in under half an hour, is sure to change how you do your laundry.
One of its standout features is the DrumClean Programme that helps to keep it hygienic at all times. It does this by self-cleaning at 70°C, which is high enough to kill most bacteria and remove dirt build-up.
It’s rated C for energy usage while it also comes with a 1400 rpm spin speed, which is incredible for such a low-priced machine. It automatically adjusts water levels, putting less strain on the spinning motor and reducing energy consumption.
Beko also adds a child safety lock to prevent your explorative young ones from making any changes to the settings when in use. The exterior of this model is impressive and features a large LED display that lets you monitor progress.
At 72db during the high-spin cycle, it’s among the noisiest washers in this list. But, all in all, you get a lot of value with this Beko model.
No 2: Logik L814WM20
Logik L814WM20 model details |
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| Price (£) | 209.99 |
| Energy rating | D |
| Water usage (litres) | 10224 |
| Spin speed (rpm) | 1400 |
| Load capacity (kg) | 8 |
| Special programmes | Anti-allergy, Sports wear, child lock |
| Dimensions | H(88.1) x W(64.1) x D(57.7) |
The 8kg capacity L814WM20 from Logik is roomy enough to clean up to 40 shirts or one double-duvet, which makes it a good fit for family households.
Seeing this washer for the first time will leave you doubting its price tag. The premium white finish, coupled with a large LED display, makes it look much more expensive. It also comes with a time indicator so you can monitor your load.
The 24-hour delay timer gives enormous flexibility for busy families or couples. You can choose from 15 preset programmes, including Allergy Safe which removes all washing powder residues and most skin irritants. Finally, the child lock feature helps to stop any curious hands from interfering with your wash settings.
If you’re looking for a budget washer with a fancy digital screen and multiple programmes for a medium to large family, the Logik L814WM20 is hard to beat.
No 3: Indesit IWC71452
Indesit IWC71452 model details |
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| Price (£) | 209.99 |
| Energy rating | E |
| Water usage (litres) | 8850 |
| Spin speed (rpm) | 1400 |
| Load capacity (kg) | 7 |
| Special programmes | Quick wash, Hand wash cycle, Cotton Cycle |
| Dimensions (cm) | H(89) x W(64.5) x D(58) |
The IWC71452 by Indesit is a low-cost 7kg washing machine suitable for households of 2-4 people. We were impressed with its timeless white finish and the inclusion of several features that you’d expect to find on more expensive models.
As standard, it has a foam control system, adjustable spin speed and automatic load balancing. The latter, which Indesit refers to as Water Balance Plus technology, is an innovative water-saving feature that automatically determines how much water each cycle needs.
This freestanding model also comes with a great range of programmes to help you care for different types of clothing. Whether you’re looking to wash those tough jeans, remove grass stains from your child’s sports kit or wash your bulky bedding, this machine has the setting to get the job done.
This isn’t the most efficient machine but that’s the trade-off for such a low price. However, the spin speed of up to 1400rpm is also a big plus to shorten the time it takes for your laundry to dry.
If you like to plan ahead, the start delay feature will allow you to set a timer so your load finished when it is convenient for you. Finally, Indesit offers a 10-year parts guarantee, which shows the faith they have in their product.
We highly recommend this model if you’re looking for a value machine that doesn’t compromise on looks, features and tech.
Conclusion
When you’re on a budget, it’s natural to think that you’ll end up with something cheap and plasticky that only turns on and off. The reality is that you can get some genuinely great deals, but you have to look around and do your research.
Once you’ve realised just how much you can get for less than £200, you’ll never want to spend more. Each of these machines offers excellent functionality as well as a few mod cons to keep you at the cutting edge of the latest laundry tech.
