12 kg is one of the largest washing machine capacities available, so picking a model with this capacity could be a good idea if you have a family that gets through a lot of washing every week.
There aren’t as many 12 kg washing machines on the market as there are at smaller capacities, especially 8-10 kg. We looked at 25 of the most popular options available in the UK and identified the best according to different metrics such as user reviews, energy efficiency and value for money.
Our Top Picks
1. Hisense WF3S1243BB3 (Best Overall)
Why we picked it:
The Hisense WF3S1243BB3 is one of the most popular 12 kg models. It’s consistently highly rated by users, and offers good value for money.
What we like:
- Cheaper than the average 12 kg machine
- Auto wash adjusts settings automatically to suit your laundry
- 15-, 30- and 49-minute quick wash cycles
- Track energy and water usage using the ConnectLife app
Potential drawbacks:
- Higher energy use than the median 12 kg machine (0.43 kWh/cycle compared to 0.33 kWh/cycle)
Check price and reviews:
2. LOGIK L1214WMB25 (Cheapest)
Why we picked it:
The cheapest 12 kg machine we could find on the market, with decent reviews despite the low price.
What we like:
- Great value for money
- 15-minute Quick Wash setting
Potential drawbacks:
- Uses more energy than average (0.54 kWh/cycle, compared to the median of 0.33 kWh/cycle for a 12 kg machine)
- Uses more water than average (57 L/cycle, compared to the median of 45 L for a 12 kg machine)
- Louder than average (80 dB, compared to the median of 72 dB for a 12 kg machine)
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3. Hisense WF5I1245BBR (Most Energy Efficient)
Why we picked it:
The most energy-efficient 12 kg machine we could find on the market, and also relatively water efficient.
What we like:
- Uses just 0.32 kWh/cycle compared to the median of 0.33 kWh for a 12 kg machine
- Relatively energy efficient and cheap to run
- Auto Dosing – automatically selects how much detergent to use
- 15, 30- and 49-minute Quick Wash options
- Monitor energy usage with the ConnectLife app
Potential drawbacks:
- A bit more expensive to buy than the average 12 kg machine
Check price and reviews:
4. Haier HW120-B14387U-UK (Quietest)
Why we picked it:
The quietest 12 kg machine we could find on the market at 69 dB on the spin cycle, compared to 72 dB for the median 12 kg washing machine.
What we like:
- Designed to last for 25 years
- Keeps washing fresh if you don’t unload the drum immediately
- Noticeably quieter than average
Potential drawbacks:
- Almost twice as expensive as the average 12 kg washing machine
Check price and reviews:
5. Haier HW120BP14357AGUK (Best for Small Spaces)
Why we picked it:
Compact at just 59 cm deep (the median 12 kg washing machine is 64 cm deep). This could make it a good choice if you have limited space.
What we like:
- Every cycle can be customised
- Automatically adjusts settings based on weight and type of washing
- Reasonably priced
Potential drawbacks:
- Some users have found that the machine broke shortly after buying it
Check price and reviews:
12 kg Washing Machines at a Glance
Here’s an overview of the 12 kg washing machine market in the UK at the time of writing:
| Metric | Range | Median |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £279–£899 | £469 |
| Energy use | 0.32–0.54 kWh | 0.33 kWh |
| Water use | 42–57 L | 45 L |
| Spin noise | 69–80 dB | 72 dB |
| Depth | 59–67 cm | 64 cm |
Is a 12 kg Washing Machine Right for You?
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: 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.
Hannah has a passion for cleaning. She worked her way around Australia by cleaning hostels in exchange for free accommodation and used her cleaning skills to bag a job as a chalet host for a luxury ski company in France.
