When buying a new washing machine, you should consider several significant details. What features does it have? Is it energy efficient? What size washer do I need?
In this post, we’ll be answering the latter question to help you decide what size washing machine you need for your home and family.
We’ve put together a list of four important factors to help you decide. We also created a handy washing machine sizes chart. By the end, you’ll know the best capacity to go for.
Key Takeaways
- Choose the right washing machine size based on family size: small (3.2 cubic feet) for 1-2 people, medium (4.5 cubic feet) for 2-4 people, and large (5+ cubic feet) for 5 or more people.
- Consider factors like laundry frequency, budget, type of laundry load, and energy efficiency when selecting a washing machine.
- Washing machine sizes chart: small washers (3.2 cubic feet) for 1-2 people, medium washers (4.5 cubic feet) for 2-4 people, and large washers (5-6.2 cubic feet) for 5+ people.
- Dryer sizes should also be based on family size: small dryers for 1-2 people, medium dryers for 3-4 people, and large dryers for families of five or more.
- What Size Washer Do I Need?
- Washing Machine Sizes Chart
- Washer Sizes
- How to Calculate Capacity of a Washer
- What Size Dryer Do I Need?
- What Size Washer Do I Need for a King Size Comforter?
- What Size Washing Machine Do I Need to Wash a Queen Size Quilt?
- Sizing Specialists
- FAQs
What Size Washer Do I Need?
Let’s walk through what important factors you should consider to determine the ideal washer size for your family.
1. How Frequently You’ll Be Doing Laundry
This is probably the most important detail to consider to help you find the right size washing machine.
If you live on your own and don’t do laundry very often, then you can get away with a smaller machine.
But if you have a large family and a bottomless pile of laundry, a larger machine can help you get through the loads much quicker.
2. What’s Your Budget?
The larger the machine, the more expensive it will be. That’s simply because they are bigger, there are usually more features, and they are more efficient. If you’re on a budget, a small or medium washer might be right for you at this current moment.
3. Type of Laundry Load
If you live in a warmer place, then you’re most likely going to be washing smaller articles of clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, and swimwear. Therefore, you may be able to get away with a smaller machine.
If you live in a colder area, your clothes will be bulkier. You’ll be washing sweaters, jeans, outdoor wear, and knitted items. A larger appliance will be more suitable.
4. Energy-Efficient
Larger washing machines will use more water and electricity per cycle. If you aren’t going to be filling the machine up every time, then a smaller appliance will be more energy efficient.
However, if you’re going to fill the tub each cycle, it ends up being more energy-efficient per pound of laundry. That’s when we suggest opting for a larger machine.
So the bottom line is, choose a small appliance if you don’t have much laundry to do, if you live alone, if you’re on a budget and live in a warm area. Go for a larger appliance if you have a big family, the funds for the machine, larger items of clothing, and will be filling the washing machine with each load.
Washing Machine Sizes Chart
If you’re wondering, “What size washing machine do I need?” it can help to know the specs.
Below is a handy table to give you a quick idea of the various features of different size washing machines.
This includes the cubic feet capacity, what size family it’s best for, how many towels the washer can accommodate, and the average pounds of laundry per load.
Washer Sizes
| Washer Size | Capacity (cubic feet) | Number of Towels Washer Can Fit | Approximate Family Size | Pounds of Laundry Per Load |
|---|
| Small | 3.2 | Nine | 1-2 people | 12-14 |
| Medium | 4.5 | 11 | 2-4 people | 14-16 |
| Large | 5-6.2 | 17 | 5+ people | 20-25 |
Small Washers
A small washer is generally around 3.2 to 3.5 cubic feet. This smaller capacity is suitable for single people or couples.
You may find these washers are typically top-loading machines. You can also find portable options, which are great for small homes.
Although these machines are more compact, they can still accommodate up to 14 pounds of laundry — or around nine full-size towels — so you can stay on top of your chores.
Medium Washers
Medium washers come in a more standard size with a capacity of 4.5 cubic feet. They can wash 14 to 16 pounds of laundry per load, which is roughly the size of 11 full-size bath towels. This is a safe option for a family of four.
You’ll find medium washers in the top load and front load style, and in a variety of price points. Many different brands make medium washers, including Whirlpool, Samsung, Bosch, and more.
Large Washers
If you have more than five people in your home or are washing larger laundry loads regularly, then we recommend a large washer.
These appliances have a capacity of 5 to 6.2 cubic feet. This is capable of 20-25 pounds of laundry — or roughly 17 full-size bath towels!
While large washers are more expensive, they are practical for folks and families doing larger frequent loads. In fact, if you’re hoping to wash bedding, such as a king-size comforter, and don’t want to take it to a professional cleaner, a large washing machine is going to be helpful.
How to Calculate Capacity of a Washer
When determining what size washing machine do you need, it’s helpful to know the capacity in cubic feet. But what if the washing machine manufacturer doesn’t disclose this information? Well, we have a handy formula for you!
All you need to do is the machine’s radius in feet, the depth in feet, and pi (3.14).
- Measure: Use a measuring tape to record the washing machine’s specs.
- Find the radius: When measuring the radius, you can measure from the center of the tub to the edge. Another method is measuring the diameter from side to side, then dividing by two.
- Multiply the radius: Multiply the radius by the radius. For example, if the radius is 0.75 feet, your calculation will be 0.56.
- Multiply by pi: Multiply the above calculation by pi. For instance, 0.56 times 3.14 equals 1.76.
- Multiply by depth: Multiply the above calculation by the depth. For instance, if the depth is 2 feet, then your cubic feet volume is 3.53.
In summary, the formula is radius x radius x pi x depth. That equals the washer’s capacity in cubic feet.
What Size Dryer Do I Need?
Some appliances are a combined washer and dryer. They are practical but not as effective as buying a dryer separately.
If you’re in the market for a dryer as well, our advice is similar. Opt for a small dryer if there are 1-2 people, and you’re doing small irregular laundry loads.
Opt for a medium dryer for 3-4 people households and regular medium size loads of laundry. And opt for a large dryer if you’re a family of five or more, and do frequent large loads of laundry.
In general, tumble dryers vary from 15 pounds to 22 pounds.
- 15-16 pound dryers: Small families.
- 17-20 pound dryers: Medium families.
- 20-22 pound dryers: Large families.
What Size Washer Do I Need for a King Size Comforter?
It depends on the tog rating of your comforter. If it’s a lighter comforter, then you might be able to wash it in a small washing machine effectively.
For king-size winter comforters, we recommend a washing machine with a capacity of at least 4.5 cubic feet — a medium washer.
However, based on our experience, a large machine will be best for a more effective clean where the water and detergent can effectively mix and agitate the comforter clean.
So you can clean a king-size comforter in all size machines, but a large machine will handle it really well.
What Size Washing Machine Do I Need to Wash a Queen Size Quilt?
It depends on the weight of the quilt. If the quilt weighs 15 pounds, then a medium washer will do. But some queen-size quilts can be much heavier, and therefore, you may need a large washing machine.
Sizing Specialists
You asked what size washing machine do I need, and we answered! Now you know all the important specs for choosing your washer size.
To quickly recap, there are three basic sizes: small, medium, and large.
Choose a small washing machine for 1-2 people or an average of 12-14 pounds of laundry per load.
Medium washers are great for 2-4 people families and 14-16 pounds of laundry.
Large machines are best for families with five or more people and 20-25 pounds of laundry per load.
FAQs
How Do I Choose a Washing Machine?
The best way to choose a washing machine is to measure the space available, decide what capacity you need, and look for the most energy-efficient machine possible for your budget.
Are Top Load or Front Load Washers More Reliable?
Knowing whether a top load or front load washer is more reliable depends on several factors like make, model, and price. Front loaders are more reliable, but top loading machines are easier to repair.
Are Bigger Washing Machines Better?
Bigger washing machines are better for larger loads. However, they may not be the best choice if you live on your own and only have a small amount of laundry.
How Do You Know If Your Washing Machine is Overloaded?
The easiest way to know if your washing machine is overloaded is to use the one hand rule. Push your hand inside the drum while full and if you can move it freely, it is loaded correctly.
What Does 10 Pounds of Laundry Look Like?
10 pounds of laundry looks like 10 pounds of laundry. It looks like a full laundry basket and is the maximum amount most average families produce per wash.
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FAQs
Front Load Washer cleans over three baskets of clothing1 in a single load. A washer with 4.5 cu. ft. or above should also be able to handle king-sized duvets and comforters, so make sure you're getting the capacity you need to avoid trips to the laundromat.
What size washer do I need for a family of 4? ›
The average washing machine has a drum capacity between 4.2 cubic feet and 4.5 cubic feet. This drum size can accommodate the laundry needs of a family of four.
Can you wash a king-size comforter in a 4.5 cu ft washer? ›
Comforters: Instead of lugging your king-size comforter to a laundromat, you can wash it in any washer with a claimed capacity of at least 4.5 cubic feet, according to our tests. It's best washed by itself, for better agitation and rinsing. An extra rinse cycle might also be helpful for these bulky items.
Is a 4.2 cu ft washer big enough? ›
A regular-capacity washer between 3.1 and 4.0 cubic feet will let you load in 12 to 16 pounds of laundry, while a larger-capacity model between 4.2 and 4.5 cubic feet can hold up to 20 pounds or more.
How much laundry will a 4 cubic foot washer hold? ›
Load Capacity by Washer Size
| Machine Type* | Cubic Feet | Pounds of Laundry Per Load |
|---|
| Compact | 1.5 to 3.4 | 4 to 8 |
| Standard | 3.5 to 4.4 | 12 to 16 |
| Large | 4.5 to 5.0 | 16 to 20 |
| Extra-Large | 5.1 to 6.2 | 20 to 25 |
Jul 13, 2022
According to Compact Appliance (opens in new tab), “four cubic feet is enough to wash 12-16 pounds of laundry. A larger capacity unit at 4.5 cubic feet can hold up to 20 pounds of laundry.” A 3.5 cubic foot washing machine will fit a queen-size comforter, but it will struggle to accommodate a king-size.
Is 4.5 cu ft washer big enough for family of 5? ›
Family Size
As a rule of thumb, bigger families (over 3 people in total) will require a 4 to 4.5 cubic feet washer for optimal effectiveness. For reference, 4 cubic feet can wash up to 16 pounds while a 4.5 cubic feet machine can wash 20 pounds of laundry.
How many clothes can a 2.4 cu ft washer hold? ›
Generally speaking, compact washers have a 2.0 to 2.5 cubic foot capacity and can handle 15 to 20lbs of laundry per load.
How much detergent do I need for a 4 load washer? ›
How much detergent should I use? As a general rule of thumb, you should only use about a tablespoon of laundry detergent per regular load size. (The measuring cup that comes with your liquid laundry detergent is about 10 times larger than the actual amount of laundry soap needed.)
Can you wash a queen comforter in a 4.2 cu ft washer? ›
Twin and full size comforters should fit in a standard sized washing machine. Ensure the washer is at least 3.5 cubic feet for a queen, and 3.8 cubic feet for a king.
What Do You Do If Your Comforter Is Too Big For Your Washing Machine? As mentioned before, there are two ways to clean the duvet which does not fit your washer. You can take them to a laundromat and pay for the service. On the other hand, you can wash the bedcover at home by hand with the support of your bathtub.
Is a washer with an agitator better? ›
Agitators in a washing machine do an excellent job cleaning dirty and grimy clothes, but they can also be tough on certain types of clothing, such as delicates and knits. Non-agitator washers are typically more expensive but more efficient and have a larger capacity.
Can a 4.2 washer hold a king size comforter? ›
More specifically to successfully wash a king-sized comforter, you need a washer that has a drum capacity of 5.0 cubic feet or larger. The washer should be a front-loading washer or a top-loading washer without or with a removable center agitator.
What does 4.5 cu ft mean on a washer? ›
Laundry machines are measured in cubic feet. Generally speaking, 4 cubic feet is enough to wash 12-16 pounds of laundry. A larger capacity unit at 4.5 cubic feet can hold up to 20 pounds of laundry.
What is the difference between 4.8 and 5 cu ft washer? ›
The 4.8 is just a tad smaller when it comes to capacity but that is because it is True32 closet depth so it can fit into a standard closet with ease. The 5.0 features 12 wash cycles, featuring ActiveWear, Power Clean cycles, and Sanitize + Allergen.
How long should 4 loads of laundry take? ›
The average load of laundry takes between 30 and 45 minutes. While there are some items that take longer to dry — towels, jeans, etc. — most items are dry in about 40 minutes. Total: 80 minutes per week.
Is 4 loads of laundry a lot? ›
Doing no more than 5 loads of washing per week is optimal for any household to maintain the quality of clothes and machines. It also helps protect the environment. Do not overload the washing machine though. This can result in the clothes not being washed properly and can damage your washing machine.
How many cubic feet is a 40 lb washing machine? ›
Today the Milnor classic model is sold and labeled a 40-LB washer. It comes in at 6.14 cubic feet and equals the size of many competitor's models who label their machines 40-LB washers.
Which is better top or front load washer? ›
Front-loaders always outperform top-loaders in stain-removal tests. A top-loader's twisting wash motion (with or without an agitator) isn't as effective as a front-loader's tumbling wash motion. But if you don't mind pretreating stains, or most of your loads are just moderately dirty, top-loaders clean just fine.
What is considered a large capacity washer? ›
What is considered a large capacity washer? A large capacity washer is generally considered 4.5 Cu. Ft. capacity or more and can sometimes be taller or wider than a standard washer.
How do front load vs. top load washers clean clothes? Front load washers tumble laundry loads to create friction that cleans your clothes. Top load washers use an impeller or agitator to clean your clothes.
What is a normal washer size? ›
Standard washer and dryer sizes are generally 27 inches wide, 39 inches tall and 32 to 34 inches deep for front load units. Whereas, top load washers and dryers are typically 27 inches wide, 42 to 44 inches tall and less deep with depths of 27 to 28 inches.
Is a bigger washing machine better? ›
The bigger the washing machine, the more laundry you can wash at one time. A 10kg washing machine can easily fit up to 50 items, a king-sized duvet, or even a set of curtains! This can cut down the amount of laundry you need to do each week.
How do you know if you overload a washer? ›
By placing your hand into your machine's drum, you can see how much space is left. Perfect is if you can fit nothing else in the drum, just your hand and your wash. If you can't get your hand into the drum, then it's overloaded.
What size washer for king size sheets? ›
Ideally, you need to have a washing machine with a 4.2 cubic ft capacity to clean your large bedding set.
Which is better impeller or agitator? ›
A washing machine with an impeller uses less motion and water than a washer with an agitator. Designed so laundry has more room to move, it drives clothes from the outer rim of the wash basket to the center, using a small amount of water to optimize the friction. This is what helps deliver a gentle, yet thorough clean.
Which is cheaper liquid detergent or pods? ›
Of course, laundry pods aren't superior to regular detergents in every way by far. They are much more expensive than both liquid and powder detergents. Some can cost as much as 50 percent more.
Do you put detergent in first or clothes? ›
If you have a regular top-loading machine, it's best to fill your washer with water first, then add your detergent, then add your clothes. This helps evenly distribute the detergent in the water before it hits your clothes. Remember that the nicer you are to your washer and dryer the longer they'll last.
Is liquid or powder detergent better for top load washing machine? ›
Top Loading + Traditional: There is really no difference in liquid vs powder laundry detergent in top loading washers and traditional washers. You can use either, depending on your personal preference.
Can you wash a queen size comforter in a 3.8 cu ft washer? ›
Use a large capacity washer and dryer. Your comforter needs room to agitate and tumble – it can't get clean otherwise. A large capacity washer is typically one with at least 5.0 cu. ft.
Can I Wash a Comforter in a Washing Machine? A washing machine with enough capacity can effectively wash most comforters deemed machine washable, but not all residential machines are up to the task. Make sure your washing machine provides enough room for your comforter to move with at least 5.0 cu. ft.
Should comforter be bulky or heavy duty on washing machine? ›
Bulky. The bulky cycle is usually the cycle with the heaviest level of dirt removal. It is ideal for heavily soiled items, such as grass-stained or muddy kids' pants. A bulky cycle can also work well for large items like blankets, comforters, or sleeping bags.
What setting do you wash bed sheets on? ›
Unless they're extremely dirty, sheets don't require a heavy wash cycle. For this reason, sheets get clean on the normal, regular or colors cycle. Additionally, polyester blends wash best in warm water while cotton can be washed in hot. Above all, hotter water kills more germs and dust mites that live in bedding.
When should you not use agitator? ›
Delicate items are better washed in a non agitator machine since this will give you less wear and tear on clothes. Mainly you'll be looking at those few things: capacity, what cleans better, and what is more gentle on clothes.
What are the disadvantages of agitator? ›
The cons of a washer with an agitator include:
Items could get stuck on the agitator and tear. More room in the basket for bulky loading/unloading. Because there is an agitator column, these washers may offer less room than impeller washers. This makes washing bulky items like blankets and pillows more difficult.
Why would you not want an agitator in a washing machine? ›
Pros. The lack of an agitator frees up a lot of room in the drum, creating the opportunity to clean larger loads and big comforters. Non-agitator machines use much less water which leads to less waste, cheaper water bills, and “greener” laundry.
What size washing machine is best for a family of 4? ›
What size washer do I need for a family of 4? A medium capacity washer (which has a drum size of around 6-7 kg) should be enough to meet the needs of four people.
Can you wash a king size comforter in a 4.5 cu ft top load washer? ›
Comforters: Instead of lugging your king-size comforter to a laundromat, you can wash it in any washer with a claimed capacity of at least 4.5 cubic feet, according to our tests. It's best washed by itself, for better agitation and rinsing. An extra rinse cycle might also be helpful for these bulky items.
How much laundry will fit in a 4 cubic foot washer? ›
A regular-capacity washer between 3.1 and 4.0 cubic feet will let you load in 12 to 16 pounds of laundry, while a larger-capacity model between 4.2 and 4.5 cubic feet can hold up to 20 pounds or more.
Is 4.4 cu ft washer big? ›
According to Compact Appliance (opens in new tab), “four cubic feet is enough to wash 12-16 pounds of laundry. A larger capacity unit at 4.5 cubic feet can hold up to 20 pounds of laundry.” A 3.5 cubic foot washing machine will fit a queen-size comforter, but it will struggle to accommodate a king-size.
Will you be washing large items? You will likely need a washer with at least 4.6 cu. ft. of capacity to wash items as large as a king-size comforter.
What is a good size washing machine for 2 people? ›
Up to 2.5 cu ft.: A washing machine with a capacity of 2.5 cu. ft. or less is suitable for small households of one to three people and can comfortably fit 4 – 10 lbs. of laundry. This size range is compatible with dryers that fit 3.9 cu.
Is a 5.0 cubic feet washer big enough to king size comforter? ›
More specifically to successfully wash a king-sized comforter, you need a washer that has a drum capacity of 5.0 cubic feet or larger. The washer should be a front-loading washer or a top-loading washer without or with a removable center agitator.
How many pounds can a 5.2 cu ft washer hold? ›
Save Time and Wash Fewer Loads Every Week
Bring on big loads of towels or jeans- this 5.2 cu. ft. washer fits more in every load up to 20 lbs.
How many towels fit in a 3.5 cu ft washer? ›
washer fits a good-sized load of your laundry inside. Bulky bedding, jeans and towels are no problem. There's enough room to clean 14 towels in a single load.
What is the most reliable washer on the market today? ›
Samsung 4.5-Cubic-Foot Front-Load Washing Machine
Samsung was named one of the most reliable brands by Yale Appliances and Puls repair technicians, and its front-load washers ranked highest in customer satisfaction, according to J.D. Power's laundry appliance 2021 satisfaction study.
What is the most common size of washing machine? ›
Size: Traditional washers (and dryers) are 27 to 28 inches wide and 30 to 35 inches deep; height can vary. Plan for 6 inches of space between the machine and the wall and 1 inch between machines.
What size washing machine for 4 adults? ›
What size washer do I need for a family of 4? A medium capacity washer (which has a drum size of around 6-7 kg) should be enough to meet the needs of four people.
Which is better front or top load washer? ›
Are front load or top load washing machines more efficient? Front load washers are generally more efficient, since they're designed to use less water even if they have slightly longer cycle times. Top load washers use more water even if their cycles can be faster than that of a front load washer.
