Best 12 kg Washing Machines (2024 UK)

Finding a washing machine that matches your household dynamic needs is crucial, and 12 kg washing machines are a fantastic option for busy family homes. Their large drum capacity can handle bigger loads of laundry, reducing the frequency of your washes.

However, as the demand for larger laundry capacities grows, many top appliance brands have launched 12 kg washers. The choice can be overwhelming, with many homeowners asking the same question: Which are the best 12 kg washing machines?

Here, we review the best five large-capacity washing machines in the UK. We compare essential features – such as energy efficiency, noise level, and washing programs – to help you find the right appliance for your family.

So, whether you’re a busy household juggling daily wear or someone who values efficiency in their laundry routine, this guide will help you find a suitable washer for your home.

 

 

What Should You Look for in a 12 kg Washing Machine?

The primary advantage of a 12 kg washing machine is its large capacity. But before buying a new washer, assess whether this size suits your laundry needs.

A 12 kg washing machine is ideal for larger families or households with frequent and substantial laundry loads.

Washing machine capacity aside, there are several other factors you should consider to help you choose the best appliance for your household. These are as follows:

Dimensions

For 12 kg washing machines, you can expect dimensions of around 85 cm high x 60 cm wide x 66 cm deep. However, there is some variation, which is crucial to consider before making a purchase.

Always measure the designated space in your laundry area and ensure that the washing machine can fit.

If purchasing a freestanding washer, remember you’ll also need extra space around the washing machine to accommodate pipe connections and ventilation.

 

Washing programs

Compare the available washing programs and features when in the market for a new washing machine.

Some options you might be interested in include delicate cycles, steam cleaning, and stain removal settings.

The more specific wash programs there are, the more efficiently your washer can work to tackle the particular needs of your garments.  

Quick wash washing machines are also useful for large families that most benefit from having a large 12 kg washing machine. These wash settings can help you get through your household laundry at a faster rate, giving you more time back in your day.

 

Additional functionality

Some modern washing machines have intelligent features, allowing you to control and monitor the appliance remotely through smartphone apps.

Assess if these features align with your preferences and lifestyle. They are useful for busy households, but washers with these advanced features often come at a higher price.

Other additional functionalities that you might be interested in include:

• Delay start timers: Washing machines with delay start timers allow you to set your wash cycle to start at a later time. Busy households benefit most from this convenient option, making it easy to work your laundry around your routine.
• Pause & add: Have you ever put your washing machine on, only to realise you’ve forgotten to wash certain items? If you have a washer with a Pause & Add option, this doesn’t matter. Conveniently pause the cycle, add your forgotten items, and hit the start button again.
• Automatic dosing: Some 12 kg washing machines can calculate the exact amount of detergent needed for your load of laundry. Keep the detergent reservoir topped up, and the machine will do the dosing for you.
• Sensor technology: One of the latest advancements in washing machines is sensor technology. Sensors can weigh your load and determine the fabric type, then precisely adjust the time and water usage for an energy-efficient wash that delivers excellent results.

 

Noise level

All washing machines make some noise, but some appliances are louder than others. Check the noise level of the washing machine, especially if it will be located near living spaces or in an open-plan home environment.

Look for machines with lower decibel levels for quieter operation. The average washing machine produces about 74 decibels of noise on the spin cycle, so anything below this is relatively quiet.

You might also benefit from a quiet washing machine if you are sensitive to noise, plan to run the washing machine at night, or have young children who could be easily disturbed by the sound. If household members work from home, having a quieter appliance can also help boost productivity.

 

Price and value for money

Finally, budget is an important consideration. The average price for a 12kg washing machine is around £570-£600.

However, you can find options for under £500, including the HiSense WFQA1214EVJMT and Hoover H-WASH 500 HW412AMC/1.

Of course, cheaper appliances do tend to lack advanced features and less quality parts than more expensive washers.

Therefore, while considering your budget, focus on the overall value for money. Energy savings, advanced features, and a longer lifespan might justify a higher upfront cost. However, you might also save money on laundry by doing fewer washes or using eco-friendly cycles.

 

Do You Need a 12 kg Washing Machine?

The largest domestic washing machine capacities range from 10 kg to 15 kg, making a 12 kg washer one of the largest on the market.

These extra-large capacities are designed to accommodate substantial loads of laundry. They are suitable for larger households or individuals with high laundry demands.

For more help in deciding whether you need a 12 kg washing machine, consider the following factors related to your household and laundry habits:

• Household size: A 12 kg washing machine is generally recommended for larger households with five or more members. If you have a smaller family or live alone, a smaller-capacity machine will probably be big enough to handle your laundry needs.
• Laundry frequency: If you find yourself doing laundry frequently due to a high volume of clothes, bedding, or other items, a 12 kg washing machine can be useful. Larger washers reduce the number of cycles needed, saving you time and money on laundry costs.
• Bulkier items: If you frequently wash large and bulky items (such as duvets, comforters, or bedding), a 12 kg machine provides the capacity to handle these items comfortably. It also prevents you from overloading your appliance with these extra-large items.
• Space availability: Even if your household would benefit from a 12 kg washing machine, you must ensure you have sufficient space in your laundry area for these large appliances. Measure the dimensions carefully, including allowances for connections and ventilation.
• Convenience: If you prefer doing fewer, larger loads of laundry rather than several smaller ones, a 12 kg washing machine can offer convenience and time savings. However, this relies on you having clothes made from similar colours and fabrics that can be washed together.

Ultimately, deciding to invest in a 12 kg washing machine depends on your circumstances.

If your household generates a significant amount of laundry and you have the space for a larger machine, a 12 kg washing machine could be a valuable addition to your home.

If, however, you have a smaller household or limited space, a smaller machine may be more practical.

 

Conclusion: The Best 12 kg Washing Machine to Buy

If you’re tight on budget, the Hoover H-WASH 500 HW412AMC/1 is a fantastic compromise between price and quality.

However, if we had to pick one 12 kg washing machine to recommend overall, it would be the Haier i-Pro Series 7 HW120-B14979.

It is the quietest and most compact 12 kg washer on our list, perfect for large families with lots of laundry.

You can take advantage of several intelligent wash cycles including Stain Blaster and Quick Wash options.

There’s also a convenient light inside the drum, an easy-to-use LED display, and a delay start timer. Plus, its A Class energy rating helps keep ongoing laundry costs down.