8 Best Front Load Washing Machines in India 2023 (IFB, Bosch, and more)

On average, each home has 1.5-2.5 kg of laundry every day. If you wash clothes of 1-2 members every day, you don’t have to worry about the size of washing machines because most of them have over 5 kg capacity. However, if you plan on doing laundry over weekends, you might want to consider a washing machine with a larger capacity.

The ideal size for a front load washing machine for 2-3 members is 6.5-7 kg, whereas for 4-5 members is 8 kg. If you have more than 5 members or have more bulky items to wash, like comforters, curtains, and heavy bread spreads, then an 8.5-9 kg machine will work for you.

But do note that higher capacity machines are heavy, take up more space, and consume more water and electricity. So, keep a check on the frequency of wash and members in your family before investing in a front-load washing machine.

People who live in small apartments have limited storage space for washing machines. They don’t always have dedicated washing areas in the balcony and washrooms, restricting their options to place a washing machine. Therefore, you must consider how much space do you have for a washer?

Additionally, a front-load machine needs space for its door to open for loading and to unload the laundry. You should also check if the washing area has access to electricity and water points. So, get a measuring tape, write down the dimensions, and have them with you when you shop. 

People who live in apartments or have small children at home need to consider a washing machine that will make as little sound as possible. Generally, front loaders are louder than top-loaders because of their faster spin speed. So, look for a model that mentions 50 dB (decibel) or lower, usually considered a quiet washing machine.

Another thing to keep in mind is the number of noise changes when the machine is rinsing, draining or drying. You can check this by ensuring that the machine has added insulation, improved suspension, and shock absorbers for less noise. The shock absorbers are used to centre the tub movement while in the spin cycle.

Different fabrics require different speeds, temperatures, and wash programs. Some of the standard wash programs in front load washing machines are quick wash, daily wash, pre-soak, woollens/delicate, cotton, and synthetics. These programs are not limited to all washing machines; some high-end models may offer additional wash cycles.

If you live in an area that receives heavy rainfall and moisture, a machine’s Monsoon Setting will quickly remove odour and dry your clothes. IFB and Bosch washing machines have this feature added to their wash program.

Similarly, if you have kids and want a hot water setting to wash their beddings and clothes, a machine with BabyCare and Hot Water Wash will be helpful for you. Cotton Wash, Delicate Wash, and Dry Wash should be considered essential programs while buying a machine.

A front-load washing machine uses 40% less water in comparison to a top-load machine. It detects the weight of laundry and automatically selects the wash cycle and water requirement, thus conserving the water. Even the wash cycle of the front-load is gentler, making it fit to wash delicate clothes with ease.

Most washers available in the market come with a BEE (Bureau of Energy Efficiency) rating that helps determine the energy efficiency. The higher the star rating, the higher is the energy efficiency.

For instance, a 5-star rating machine saves more electricity than a 4-star and 3-star one, which means it’ll lower down your bill. However, 5-star rated machines come with a higher price tag. Initially, it’ll cost you more but will save money throughout its lifetime.

An anti-crease wash cycle decreases the ironing time for clothes. It comes with features such as Rinse Hold, where the last rinse water is not drained, Spin Hold, where there’s no spinning after the final rinse water is drained, etc. Internal water heater allows you the freedom to place your washing machines wherever and not near a geyser connection.

Child lock is also an advanced feature available on high-end brands where you can either activate the door lock so children can't open it mid-cycle or putting the lock into a program so they can't change it during the wash cycle. It’s not an important feature, but if you have extra curious kids, you might want to look into this child safety feature.