First of all, you need to know that there are two types of washing machines: top loading and front loading. The first type machine has an agitator that rotates on a vertical axis. The latter’s agitator turns on a horizontal axis. Usually, top loading washing machines have a low price but the cost to operate them is much higher than front loading ones. They hold a larger amount of clothes and are fairly quiet. The biggest advantage to these types is that they are very common which means there is bigger selection from which to choose, regarding both making and model. The front loading washing machines cost more, as you have anticipated, but are more effective in terms of energy, detergent and water. The textiles are better taking care of with these machines and the cycles are longer (and still consuming less energy). The drawback is that they are a bit harder to find.

Second of all, when buying a washing machine you should consider many aspects other than the immediate cost of the appliance, at the store. You would want to take into account the frequency at which you use it, the members that are going to use it – if you have a family with children you should focus on buying one with a greater capacity; if there is one person using it and you don’t have a very stable salary then you should direct your expenses on one than saves as much energy and water as possible. And then there is the space where you intend on placing the washing machine. You don’t want to come home with your perfect buy and realize you don’t have enough space to install it. To save some space you can choose one that is thinner and higher – top loading washing machine are usually like that.

Generally it is advisable to pay more when you buy this kind of appliance and save more on the bills, as you go along. In the long run, saving energy and water seems to be more practical than paying less at the store and worrying about the expenses all the time after that. You should also consider the length of programs – for those with tight schedule, or the types of programs for different materials or colors. The button system can also turn out to be a problem if you have small children running around and are curious about touching and inspecting everything. The latest washing machines have digital display, but they can also have regular buttons that can be locked for safety.