How to Buy a Portable Washing Machine

Taking frequent and costly trips to the public laundry establishments will be discouraged once a family has decided to invest in a washer and dryer. Before going ahead with the actual purchase, the following factors must be observed:

Step 1: Size
Portable washing machines have less capacity than full-size models. People living alone or with one other person can be greatly benefited by the product. It is not recommended for large family though because washing more clothes would require more time.

Step 2: Do a Research
Do a product research. Websites are much helpful because it allows you to compare side by side. Salespeople at department store are a good source of idea how the product performs and they can give additional insights that you cannot normally get from print ads. Reading consumer reviews can give you idea of what to expect when you get your washer but one must exercise caution since everyone can post a review online so there's a tendency that the review posted is not a hundred percent accurate.

Step 3: Consider your drying options
Consider your drying preferences if you want it to simplify by using a simple drying rack or use a drying equipment because you want to cut dying time. It is recommended that one buy a washer/dryer combo because it take up a small space and those models both wash and dry clothes, there is in need to transfer laundry from one machine to another. Consider the price of the combo machines because it normally costs much higher than single washer or single dryer. One benefit of the combo machine though is that you only have to use a little storage space and this would be perfect for those living in cramped living quarters. Combo washer dryer are prices much more expensive than single washer. They range in price from about $800 to $2000.

Types of washing Machines
It is imperative also that before buying a machine, one has to learn about different types of washing machine on the market. One type might appeal to you but it might be beyond your budget and does not fit your lifestyle. The types of washers are:

Regular top-loading washer
The conventional type of washer is top loading. The tube is filled with water and the agitator swirls the laundry
Pros: Least expensive, regular top-loaders are the least expensive overall. It is easy to load items in mid cycle.
Cons: This type performs least impressively. Capacity is about 12 to 16 lbs. of laundry and uses the most water. They performed least impressively as a group. Noisy and loads can be unbalanced.

Unconventional top-loading washer
This operates by lifting, tumbling and plunges back in the laundry. It is only filled partly with water ad spins at high speed. This washer works best with low foaming, high efficiency detergents.
Pros: Some unconventional top loaders have greater capacity than regular top loader. It washes well too and the high spin speed reduces drying time, which means more energy saved.
Cons: The high-speed spin can tangle and wrinkle clothing.

Front-loading washer
This is filled partly with water and has the same cleaning operation as the unconventional top-loading washers.
Pros: Cleans better and more efficiently than the best high efficiency top loaders. Better moisture extraction in spin cycle that reduces drying time and energy consumer. It tends to be quiet and some models can be stacked to save on floor space.
Cons: Its high spin speeds might give too many vibrations in living areas.

Space-saving washer
This models are smaller and weigh less than the other types of washers.
Pros: Easy storage. Can fit small closet space and rollers or caster make it easier to roll out to sink when you have to use it.
Cons: Space-Less load capacity than the other types.