The moment comes for everyone: how to do the washing machine? More than 10 useful tips

Welcome to the guide you didn't know you needed!

Whether you're sitting cross-legged in front of the porthole or you're just trying to understand what an inverter motor is - or are you wondering if you should stick your shoes in too? – you will surely find some information of interest here.

We won't take anything for granted: cleanliness, common symbols, washing tips and much more. Step by step you will collect the complete survival kit to avoid reducing your wardrobe in a Smurfs discount store. If, however, you are here because you unfortunately, or finally, have to change your washing machine, you can immediately scroll to the interesting part: how to choose your washing machine and which are the best-selling models. Let yourself be inspired by the latest trends and the choices of professionals!

So, here's how to do the washing machine.

As with any other sport, let's start with the basics: here are some universal pieces of advice that you have surely heard at least once in your life, and that you have certainly ignored at least once:

1. Consider separating your clothes. It's true, nowadays there are countless color-capturing devices, including specially formulated detergents or wipes, but if there are some items of clothing that would tear your heart out, it's best to narrow down any margin of doubt.
2. Check the hardness of the water. Not everyone knows it, but the hardness of the water can significantly influence washing, because it reduces the effectiveness of the detergent and leads to the accumulation of limescale on the appliance. You can check this with your local water supplier. Know that there are many solutions to overcome the problem, such as softeners or detergents already specially formulated and more or less drastic solutions such as installing a water softening system.
3. Check textile labels. I'm sorry, there's no escape from here. It is said that only mothers and grandmothers know how to read clothing labels, but we are here to prove otherwise!
4. Check your pockets. I don't really want to explain how to remove micro-fragments of paper stuck in your pockets, because they are a bit like confetti: you find them in your bag all year round.
5. Do not overload the washing machine. I know that sometimes you just want to stuff your washing machine like a suitcase before a hasty departure, but this compromises the efficiency of the machine and, of course, the washing result.
6. Use the right amount of detergent. Always read the recommended doses on the description of your detergent. Don't assume that "one cap" is enough, or that "one cap" is too little; depends on the formulation of the detergent, the quantity and the condition of the load.
7. Get your clothes out right away. Once the wash cycle is complete, remove the clothes from the washing machine as quickly as possible to avoid the formation of unpleasant odors or stubborn creases (or put them in the dryer, but not before reading the textile labels).
8. Take care of your washing machine! We will talk about this in more detail later.
   

It's not always obvious: where do you put the detergent?

First of all, don't worry, your washing machine will come with a manual with all the instructions; in fact, the first advice we give you is to read it carefully. Most washing machines maintain standard design features and are equipped with a detergent drawer located on or near the drum.

This is how the washing machine drawer compartments are usually used:

• Main compartment. It is the largest and is intended for the main detergent. You can find a label with a symbol of a washing machine or an identifying writing. Or, look at this photo: you recognize it immediately!
• Compartment for fabric softener (or other additives). A small compartment marked with a flower symbol or label.
• Compartment for stain pre-treatment (if present). Some washing machines may have a third compartment for pre-treating stains, marked with a brush symbol or label.

And now, hold on tight, your favorite part is definitely coming!

Washing machine symbols

It is difficult, if not impossible, to compile an exhaustive guide on all the washing machine symbols. They may change, or vary, based on the models; some adopt the complete text, for the sake of clarity, others rely on standardized icons, perhaps for reasons of aesthetics or space. Furthermore, not all washing machines have the same programs, some offer cycles designed for dark garments, sheets, shirts, silk… in short, the most recent models will have functions that will make your head spin, but we will content ourselves with introducing you to the more traditional programs.

In reality, it is much simpler than it might seem, all these settings follow a basic logic: more delicate garments require lower temperatures and a reduced spin speed (fewer revolutions), while more resistant garments (linen, jeans , cotton) tolerate higher temperatures and high-speed centrifugation. The program for colored garments will tend to use low temperatures, around 40°C, to avoid the release of the colour; the one for black clothes is usually calibrated at even lower temperatures, so as not to ruin the shine of the garment. The use of special detergents capable of strengthening the color is common.

The cotton program considers a predominantly white cotton load of reasonable resistance, suitable for medium-high temperature washes (40°-60°C); we are talking about t-shirts, sweatshirts, socks, common underwear, rags, towels.

Classic white sheets and pillowcases normally withstand high temperatures (60+) and longer cycles, in order to ensure efficient sanitization.

Items such as wool and silk require ultra-delicate programs; wool, for example (this is not a legend) must be washed at a very low temperature or with cold water. Wash it by hand or very gently if you don't want it to shrink dramatically or become felted.

As already mentioned, most of the latest generation washing machines will offer you very special programs, but remember that these large appliances are designed to be intuitive. You won't have any problems, and for everything else: there's the manual!

Don't forget that some items may not support washing at all. And that's why now you'll be happy to learn the last, important lesson: textile labels.

Textile labels

We give you another good reason to force yourself and read the manual: this nice table, for example, is available in the manual of one of the best-selling slim washing machines, the Haier HW50-BP12307 Minidrum. Learn it by heart:

It's so clear that there doesn't seem to be much more to add. You can rest assured, textile label symbols are standardized and regulated in many countries, as they were created specifically to provide uniform and understandable care instructions for consumers, regardless of the country in which they are purchased. It is the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that has established the ISO 3758 standard which defines the care symbols for textile labelling. Although there is no global agency that directly regulates these symbols, in Europe they are entrusted to Regulation (EU) no. 1007/2011

How to wash shoes

As with clothes, some types of shoes are not really made to be put in the washing machine. Boots, heels, dress shoes, leather or leather: absolutely not. The more you paid for them, the less you should entrust them to a moody basket.

Unless otherwise specified, and unless they have particular decorations, classic canvas or fabric sneakers can withstand delicate, low-temperature washing. Remember to remove laces and insoles if possible, encrustations or pebbles, and also consider placing the shoes in a washing machine bag, so as to make the cycle less noisy and reduce the possibility of damage (to the shoes, but also to the washing machine). And, please, don't do like me: now that your shoes shine, don't leave them to dry on the radiator, as the glue on the sole could melt!

How to wash duvets

Once again the textile label is the only way to remove any doubts. Washing your down jacket strictly depends on its composition and some examples of "I screwed you" necessarily require dry cleaning, or specific products - if they are, perhaps, waterproof or made of a particular technical fabric. The reasoning is always the same: the more delicate the fabric is (such as padding, wool, cashmere, silk), the lower the temperature must be and the lower the spin speed. However, it could be the washing machine itself that catches you: it's too small! So, if you have a nice double duvet and you want to be autonomous at all costs, or autonomous, in all respects, consider purchasing a large washing machine!

Curtains, cushions, delicates

Textile label! Don't do your own thing. Unless you are absolutely certain that you have chosen curtains suitable for the washing machine, consult the manufacturer's customer service or try cautiously with a warm temperature and spin on minimum. The same advice applies to cushions and all those items with applications, delicate stitching, padding, buttons, embroidery, velvet, lace, and so on.

How do you choose the washing machine?

You're lucky, you live in the age of technology and today washing machines can integrate countless pre-set programs, both in terms of energy saving and division of items. Shirts, down jackets, silk, wool, cotton, white or coloured, jeans, coats… you could simply give the voice command to your smartphone and go back to enjoying your evening or weekend. Some washer-dryer solutions allow you to halve the work: they take care of the washing as well as the drying.

But let's take a step back.

First thing: decide where you want to put it, you can then halve your search by immediately setting the "free-standing" or "totally integrated" filter in our catalogue. Most standard washing machines are 60cm wide, but there may be some exceptions for you! If, however, you have little space available, you can consider a slim solution with a depth of 45 cm, or a top-loading washing machine.

Revolutions per minute (RPM)

You may have noticed that in our catalog you can also choose your washing machine based on "revolutions per minute", or RPM. This refers to the speed with which the drum inside the washing machine rotates during the wash and spin cycle, therefore the number of revolutions that the drum makes in a minute. Why do we focus on this detail?

• The cleaning. RPM affects the cleanliness of your clothes. The higher the RPM, the more effective the washer is at removing dirt, stains and soap residue. High RPMs are especially useful for sheets, towels, and other heavy-duty items.
• The centrifuge. The higher the RPM, the drier your clothes will be at the end of the cycle, reducing subsequent drying time.

Remember that for delicate fabrics or items that require gentler treatment you can select a lower number of revolutions per minute to avoid damage or deformation. Here is a little diagram to guide you:

• 600-800 rpm. Delicate fabrics such as silk, wool or underwear.
• 800-1200 rpm. For most standard wash cycles suitable for mixed fabrics, cotton, linen and everyday clothing. It offers a good combination of washing effectiveness and removal of excess water.
• 1200+ rpm. Ideal for towels, sheets and jeans. It can be a little louder than the lower bands due to the higher speed.

Here you can find the most powerful washing machines in our 1400 rpm catalogue!

The Inverter Motor

It sounds like a technological component from quantum physics, and in fact it is a modern technology capable of offering various advantages – for example it teleports socks into another dimension. Just kidding, none of that. The inverter system electronically regulates the speed and direction of the motor. Consequentially:

• It's more efficient. Inverter motors are more energy efficient than traditional motors. They adjust speed and power consumption based on the load, reducing overall electricity consumption.
• Improve performance. They offer more precise speed control, allowing wash cycles optimized for different types of fabrics and degrees of soiling.
• Reduces noise. Since the speed can be precisely adjusted, vibrations during the spin cycle are reduced.
• They last longer. Inverter motors are less subject to wear than conventional motors, since they do not have brushes that can wear out over time.
• Less maintenance. It must be said, repairing an inverter motor can be more expensive and require specialized personnel, but, in general, their greater reliability reduces the frequency of repairs.

In short, a popular investment among those looking for a modern and functional appliance. An example of a washing machine with an inverter motor is the aforementioned Haier Minidrum line. Doesn't that sound like a gorgeous exotic animal?

How to clean and sanitize your washing machine

But why doesn't she wash herself? It's true, some washing machines include drum cleaning programs to run after a predefined number of washes, without detergent or bleach. Nonetheless, there are other elements that you should always take into consideration:

• Cleaning the detergent drawer. Avoid blockages: remove the detergent drawer and clean it thoroughly with warm soapy water. Be sure to remove any detergent or fabric softener residue that may have accumulated.
• Run an empty cleaning cycle. If there isn't already a specific program, don't worry! Run an empty wash cycle using hot water and a detergent designed for cleaning your washing machine. This helps remove dirt deposits and bacteria.
• Cleaning the door seal. It doesn't matter how, but do it! You might be surprised. (Just kidding, how matters, always read the instructions.)
• Ventilation. After cleaning, leave the washer door slightly open to allow air to circulate and prevent mold from forming.
• Clean the pump filter. At least once a month, and especially if the washing machine does not drain the water, does not spin or makes abnormal noises during operation. Some models may have self-cleaning pumps, but if you check you'll never go wrong - if you know where to put your hands. The method for accessing the filter may vary depending on your washer model, so consult your owner's manual for specific instructions. In traditional washing machines it is located at the base of the washing machine and it may be necessary (at least in older ones) to remove the plinth.
• Clean the water inlet valve. To avoid blockages in the water supply with solid substances such as limescale, regularly clean the inlet valve filter and check the supply hose. If it has cracks or cracks, it must be replaced: during washing, strong pressure could cause sudden splits.
  
  

How much does a washing machine consume?

As always, consumption is partly subjective. If you have a large family and plan to use this appliance intensely, here are the elements whose impact is notable:

• Energy efficiency. Modern washing machines, especially those in energy class A, are designed to be more efficient than older models. An investment that is definitely worth it. For example, a random model of Candy washing machine in class A consumes 45 kW, while a similar model of the same brand in class D consumes 69 kW.
• Average consumption. Typically, a standard washing machine uses around 0.3 - 1.5 kWh per cycle. This means that, for an average wash, energy consumption can vary from around 300 kWh (for the most efficient models) to 1500 kWh.
• Type of washing machine. Front-loading washing machines tend to be more efficient than top-loading ones, especially when comparing models of the same quality.
• Annual Usage. For an average family with a good washing machine, annual energy consumption can be estimated between 150 and 300 kWh.

To find out the exact consumption of your washing machine, check the energy label or the user manual; these should provide specific information on energy consumption per cycle.

How to save money by doing the washing machine

Saving energy and water by doing the washing machine not only helps reduce bills, but is also beneficial for the environment. Note these precautions!

• Full charge. Only run the washer when it is full. This reduces the total number of washes, saving both water and energy.
• Eco programs. Use Eco or low energy programs, almost all models today offer at least one.
• Low temperature. Wash at lower temperatures. About 90% of the energy used by a washing machine is used to heat water. Using programs at 30-40°C can significantly reduce energy consumption. Also consider using cold water: many modern detergents are equally effective. Also remember to check whether your electricity contract includes reduced consumption time slots.
• Detergent. Use high-efficiency detergents and follow the recommended doses. Excess detergent may require additional rinse cycles.
• Avoid prewashing. Unless your clothes are extremely dirty.
• Effective centrifuge. Use a high-speed spin cycle to reduce moisture in clothes. This reduces the time needed for drying, especially if you use a dryer.
• Regular maintenance. There is more than one dark corner to keep an eye on, in addition to the basket.
• Natural drying. If you have the opportunity, hang your clothes outdoors or in a well-ventilated place.
• Invest in your washing machine!

The best washing machines and brands

If you have the opportunity, and you always like to get the most out of your appliances, you could consider some latest generation washing machines with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections. Remember the tips above about the importance of reading labels, temperature, etc.? Well, in short, if you really don't like it, think that the Candy washing machine can suggest to you through your smartphone which program, temperature and spin cycle are most suitable. All you need to do is take a photo of the basket with your laundry. In addition to free access to many tips and tricks, you can also manage the washes remotely and comfortably with the help of voice control.

If you still don't know where to start, let yourself be advised not only by experts, but also by those who have already tried them! We present you the best-selling washing machines of 2023 and the best brands on the market.

Now you have all the credentials to start making important decisions! Consider carefully the right budget for a good investment, according to your availability. Consider your needs, which items you may need to wash, the volume of your load, the space you have available and the possibility of combining a dryer. If your space allows it, it is advisable to purchase a separate washing machine and dryer, as being appliances designed for a single function (washing, drying), they tend to be more optimised, both in terms of consumption both performance, and the maintenance cycle could be simpler.

In our catalog you can find only the best brands, such as Siemens, Bosch, Whirlpool, Samsung, Electrolux and many others. All our items are new, original and covered by legal guarantee. We hope we have been helpful to you at least a little and we remind you that if you need advice, we are at your disposal!