The prospect of buying a new washing machine can be daunting for many. Not only can it be difficult to swap out one washing machine for another, but choosing the perfect one is equally taxing.

Washing machines aren’t exactly cheap, but you also don’t want to skimp on a new one and find that it puts your favourite clothes at risk. Should you actually buy cheap washing machines? Are they worth the money that you save? Or do they sacrifice quality for that lower price tag?

In today’s article, we’ll find out if cheaper washing machines are actually of lower quality. And even whether you can save money and still have your clothes looking and smelling totally fresh.

Is It Worth Buying A Cheap Washing Machine?

In the short term, cheaper washing machines can absolutely be worth opting for. Many cheaper washing machines are still able to easily provide excellent cleaning capabilities but for a fraction of the price.

However, in order to be cheaper, many washing machines will sacrifice specific features. You might find that cheaper washing machines lack certain features, or they make use of slightly cheaper and less satisfying materials. If you want to make use of different features, such as stain removal, we would recommend paying for a more expensive model.

In the long term, cheaper washing machines may actually prove much more expensive. The reason for this is twofold. The cheaper materials of such washing machines will mean that they are much more susceptible to breaking. This would mean the unit would have to be repaired or replaced more often.

Cheaper washing machines may also be less efficient. They may consume far more water, and far more electricity per cycle. If you want to avoid paying more for your energy bills, you should go for a slightly more expensive but more efficient model.

If you need a simple and affordable washing machine for a small space, it may be worth going for a cheaper model. If you plan to use your washing machine frequently, go for a more expensive model!

How Long Should A Cheap Washing Machine Last?

Cheaper washing machines tend to not last as long as more expensive models. This is thanks to the fact that they are usually made of cheaper materials. Cheaper washing machines can last for around 5 years, provided they are well-maintained. If a cheaper washing machine is cared for, it can last longer.

However, more expensive washing machines have lifespans that can reach well above 12 years. As such, you should be sure to consider whether or not paying more for a longer lifespan may be the better option.

What Are The Advantages Of A Cheap Washing Machine?

Lower Price Tag

If you need quick and immediate access to a simple but effective washing machine, then going cheap may be the best option for you. Cheaper washing machines have a lower upfront cost, which makes them easy to access.

If you need a simple washing machine for, say, a holiday home, then a cheaper one may be a wiser investment. Such a washing machine would not be used as frequently and may be able to last for a number of extra years.

Simpler Repairs

While cheaper washing machines may be more susceptible to damage and failure, they are actually much easier to repair. Cheaper washing machines make use of much simpler parts, which are much easier to source. This means that if a cheaper washing machine is damaged, it would cost far less to repair it.

What Are The Disadvantages Of A Cheap Washing Machine?

Higher Long-Term Costs

Many modern high-end washing machines are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Including features that help to save on energy usage, as well as water consumption. These features help to give such machines a much lower long-term cost. Your water bills will be lower, and so too will your electricity bills!

Cheaper washing machines often do not have the capability to conserve energy and water, which makes them much more expensive to operate in the long term.

Shorter Lifespans

We depend on our washing machines more than many other appliances in the home. As such, it’s best to seek out a washing machine that will easily last you for a number of years. Unfortunately, cheaper washing machines often last for only a few years before falling apart.

If you need to make frequent use of your washing machine, then we recommend paying more for better quality and thus a longer total lifespan. You’ll save a lot more money in the long run!

Frequently Asked Questions

Should You Buy A Cheap Washing Machine?

Cheaper washing machines certainly offer a much lower upfront cost, however, they come with a number of potential disadvantages. Cheaper washing machines do not last as long, and they often consume much more energy, making them more expensive to operate in the long term. If you want a trustworthy washing machine, it’s always best to pay a little more.

Is It Worth Buying An Expensive Washing Machine?

Absolutely. However, you’ll want to keep in mind that the more features a washing machine boasts, the more expensive it will be. Be sure to consider whether these extra features are of any value to you. There’s no point in spending loads for features that you may never even use.

Does Quality Of Washing Machine Matter?

Absolutely! Higher-quality washing machines are guaranteed to last you for a number of years of frequent use. Cheaper washing machines are more likely to develop huge faults after only a small number of years, becoming totally unusable. This could lead to the costly process of buying a brand-new washer.

How Long Should A Washing Machine Last?

The average lifespan of most washing machines is around 12 years in total. However, much cheaper washing machines may have a much shorter lifespan of only 5 years. If you want a washing machine to last longer, you must make sure to take good care of it and perform frequent maintenance.