Washing Machine Capacity Guide (everything you need to know)
Curious about how much laundry your washing machine can handle in one go?
You’re in the right place! This guide will tell you everything you need to know about washing machine capacity, from why it matters to practical tips and examples.
Let’s start!
Why Does A Washing Machine’s Capacity Matter?
When it comes to washing machines, size does matter. The capacity of your washer is what determines how much laundry it can handle in one wash load.
No one wants to end up doing multiple loads if their washer is too small, right? And using a bigger machine for just a handful of clothes will just waste resources.
If you already own a washing machine, knowing its capacity is crucial. Overloading or underloading can lead to an expensive mistake, damaging both your machine and clothes. Nobody wants to be in that situation!
What Is The Right Washing Machine Capacity For You?
Finding the perfect washing machine capacity depends on your household size and laundry habits.
Larger families or those who need frequent wardrobe changes benefit from bigger capacities, while singles or smaller households can go for a more modest size. Here’s a quick guide:
| Washing Machine Capacity | Recommended For |
|---|---|
| 5 – 6 KG | 1 to 3 members |
| 7 – 9 KG | 4 to 5 members |
| 10 – 12 KG | Large families |
Remember, these are just guidelines. Your laundry habits and preferences may lead you to a different choice.
TIP: Planning to buy a new washer? Get an eco-friendly washing machine! Besides size, you may want to consider the energy efficiency of your washing machine. Look out for machines that have a C, B, or even better, an A rating. An energy-efficient machine not only saves you money on bills but also reduces your environmental footprint.
Is The Capacity Of The Washing Machine The Actual Weight Of The Laundry We Can Put In It?
No, the capacity of the washer does not equal the weight of the laundry you can put in.
In fact, manufacturers recommend filling the drum to at least half but no more than three-quarters for optimal washing.
Here’s a simple guide for loading washing machines that have the capacity of 5KG to 12KG:
| Washing Machine Capacity | Minimum Load | Maximum Load |
|---|---|---|
| 5KG Washing Machine | 2.5KG | 3.75KG |
| 6KG Washing Machine | 3KG | 4.5KG |
| 7KG Washing Machine | 3.5KG | 5.25KG |
| 8KG Washing Machine | 4KG | 6KG |
| 9KG Washing Machine | 4.5KG | 6.75KG |
| 10KG Washing Machine | 5KG | 7.5KG |
| 11KG Washing Machine | 5.5KG | 8.25KG |
| 12KG Washing Machine | 6KG | 9KG |
TIP: Underloading wastes resources, while overloading stresses out your machine. Stick to the recommended weight to keep your laundry routine smooth.
How to Weigh Your Laundry
Before anything else, remember that your machine’s capacity refers to the weight of dry clothes, not soaked and soapy ones.
Worried about getting the weight just right? Relax, there’s no need to be extremely precise.
An easy trick is to visualise your drum divided into four parts. Keep your load below three-quarters of the drum for effective cleaning.
If you want to be more precise, use a regular weighing scale. Stand on it, note your weight, grab the laundry basket, subtract your weight without the laundry, and voila – you have the approximate weight of your clothes.
TIP: An easy way to ensure that your washing machine has enough space to do its job is by putting your palm sideways inside the drum. If your palm can fit with no issues, then you’re ready to start that wash cycle.
What Type Of Clothes Can You Fit In Your Washing Machine?
To load your machine just right, you’ll need a rough idea of how much each item weighs. Here’s an average weight guide:
| Clothing Item | Average Weight (kg) |
|---|---|
| T-shirt | 0.2 kg (200 grams) |
| Trousers | 0.7 to 0.9 kg (700 to 900 grams) |
| Dress | 0.3 to 0.8 kg (300 to 800 grams) |
| Sweatshirt | 0.5 to 0.7 kg (500 to 700 grams) |
| Blouse | 0.2 to 0.3 kg (200 to 300 grams) |
| Shirt | 0.2 to 0.3 kg (200 to 300 grams) |
| Shorts | 0.2 to 0.4 kg (200 to 400 grams) |
Here is an example of how many items you can fit in one wash load, based on the most common washing machine capacities:
| Type Of Garment | 5KG Washing Machine | 7KG Washing Machine | 10KG Washing Machine | 12KG Washing Machine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T-shirt | Around 18 | Around 26 | Around 34 | Around 50 |
| Trousers | Around 3 | Around 6 | Around 9 | Around 13 |
| Dress | Around 8 | Around 10 | Around 13 | Around 18 |
| Sweatshirt | Around 5 | Around 9 | Around 12 | Around 18 |
| Blouse | Around 12 | Around 22 | Around 30 | Around 48 |
| Shirt | Around 12 | Around 22 | Around 30 | Around 48 |
| Shorts | Around 12 | Around 17 | Around 25 | Around 43 |
Is It Really Necessary To Know The Capacity Of Your Washing Machine?
Absolutely! Knowing your machine’s capacity is a game-changer for several reasons:
It Will Save Resources
Using the right-sized machine minimises water and energy waste. Smaller loads in a big machine equal unnecessary utility bills – not something your wallet will appreciate.
It Is Gentler For Your Fabrics
Overloading causes clothes to miss out on proper cleaning and increases wear and tear. Knowing your machine’s capacity ensures your clothes get the care they deserve.
It Will Save Your Time
Matching your laundry load to your machine’s capacity means no more multiple small loads. Time is precious – spend less of it in front of the washing machine!
It Will Extend Your Washing Machine’s Lifespan
Overloading strains components, risking malfunctions. Following the recommended capacity ensures a longer life for your trusted appliance.
It Will Allow You To Have More Efficient Laundry Sessions
Understanding your machine’s capacity removes the guesswork. No more wondering if you’ve crammed too much in – just load, wash, and relax.
Make Your Laundry Days More Convenient!
There you have it – your ultimate guide to washing machine capacity. Armed with this knowledge, you’re ready for efficient and effective laundry days.
If you’re on your way to getting a new washer, choosing the right washing machine capacity is essential. It’s all about compatibility with your lifestyle, keeping your clothes in shape, and your energy bills reasonable. So, when you’re shopping for a new washing machine, remember these tips!
SEE ALSO: How To Tell If Your Tumble Dryer Is Overloaded
Frequently Asked Questions
To determine the ideal load capacity, consider the size of your household. For 1 to 3 members, 5-6 KG is sufficient. For 4 to 5 members, go for 7-9 KG, and for larger families, 10-12 KG is recommended.
A 7KG wash capacity indicates that the washing machine can handle up to 7 kilograms of dry clothes in a single load. However, stick to at least 3.5 to 5.25KGs worth of laundry for an efficient washing experience.
For a family of 4, a washing machine with a capacity of 7-9 KG is generally suitable.
You can tell if your washing machine is overloaded if it’s already exceeding three-quarters of the drum capacity. Make sure to only fill up around half but not more than ¾ its capacity to prevent stress on the machine and ensure effective cleaning.
It’s better to neither underload nor overload. Stick to the recommended capacity to avoid wasting resources (underloading) or causing stress to your machine (overloading).
