Do you need an extra large washing machine?

The saying goes that ‘Nothing is certain but death and taxes’, but let’s be honest, laundry could easily be substituted for either of those. Maybe even both. If you have a big family or kids who take part in daily sports training, yours could be one of the increasing numbers of Australian households that could benefit from an extra large capacity washing machine.

In this article, we'll look at the advantages and considerations of opting for a front or top load washer with a bigger-than-average washing capacity.

The majority of washing machines sold in Australia have capacities of between 8-10kg, with a handful of smaller models between 5-7.5kg. While most people would consider a 9kg or 10kg model to be large, anything over this size, i.e. 11kg, 12kg and 14kg washers, can definitely be deemed extra large.

Whether you're dealing with the daily demands of a large family, or looking to cut down the number of washes you do every week, extra large top and front load washers can accommodate oversized laundry loads with ease.

There are a couple of key advantages to having an oversized washer.

Extra large capacity washing machines are tailor-made for large families and households with active kids. The generous drum sizes can accommodate up to twice as much laundry as smaller machines, so the day’s school clothes, muddy footie kits, dirty workwear and towels can all fit into the one wash cycle.

With a wide range of wash programs and spin speeds, and features ranging from easycare and quick wash to anti-allergen steam refresh, extra large washers don’t just have size on their side. These time-saving wash options, in combination with the extra capacity, can make supersized washers especially valuable to households with limited time to do the daily chores.

Washing one larger load in an extra-large washing machine can be more energy and water-efficient than running two smaller loads in a standard-sized washer. This is because a washing machine’s energy and water consumption are not linearly proportional to the load size - which is to say that double the load of dirty clothes doesn’t equate to double the amount of water and electricity used. Larger laundry loads allow the machine to operate at full capacity, optimising water and energy efficiency.

As with regular-sized front and top load washing machines, it’s a good idea to look out for higher E3 Energy Ratings and WELS Water Star ratings if you’re buying an extra large washing machine. Many modern washers have Direct Drive inverter motors, which are known for their durability and quiet operation, as well as for adjusting their speed based on the load, which optimises energy consumption.

Some extra-large capacity washers also have auto-dosing features, ensuring the right amount of detergent is dispensed for each load, contributing to water efficiency as well as fabric care.

Shop extra large washing machines - 11kg, 12kg and 14kg

The convenience of an extra large washing machine can be alluring, but there are a couple of factors that you should think about before you buy one.

While the larger washing capacity is a big advantage, you might not feel the same way about the bigger external dimensions of the machine. A 14kg front loader, for example, may be around 10-15% taller and wider, and 30% deeper than an 8kg model. For 11kg and 12kg models, the difference is less noticeable, with height and width similar to smaller capacity models, but depths also up to 30% greater.

Extra large top loaders of 11kg, 12kg and 14kg capacities, meanwhile, might be around 10% taller, 20% wider and 25% deeper than an 8kg model.

These percentages may equate to just a few centimetres, and while this isn’t big - particularly considering the machines can take up to twice the volume of dirty washing - it can be significant if you currently have a smaller washing machine that sits beneath a benchtop in your laundry.

When shopping for an extra large capacity washer, be sure to take note of the dimensions, as you may find that an extra large washing machine will require you to get the benchtop raised or the laundry slightly remodelled.

Does extra large equal an XL price tag? Not necessarily, no. At Appliances Online you can often pick up a super spacious 14kg capacity front or top loader for under $1,500 - and with free delivery and connection (as long as you have the plumbing in place and your new big washer will fit into its designated space in your laundry room!).

Like most washing machines, the majority of extra large models come with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty, and in many cases a 10-year warranty on the Direct Drive motor.

When it comes to extra-large washer dryer combos, the convenience of having a single unit that can both wash and dry your laundry is undeniable. However, it's essential to note a key consideration – the drying capacity is typically smaller than the wash capacity.

In practical terms, this means that if you opt for a wash and dry combo cycle, the wash load must align with the dryer's smaller capacity. For instance, if you have a washer dryer combo with an 11kg wash capacity and a 7kg drying capacity, the effective load for a combined cycle is limited to the smaller drying capacity.

Shop extra large washer dryer combos

By helping reduce overall washing times, extra-large capacity washers can be a very practical choice for large and active families that generate a lot of dirty laundry every day. If you’re looking to upgrade your laundry in 2024, you might want to stick a supersized model at the top of your wishlist.

Appliances Online stocks extra large 11kg, 12kg and 14kg washing machines from brands including Fisher & Paykel, LG, Samsung, Westinghouse, Euromaid and Haier.

We deliver to 95% of Australia's population with Appliances Online's legendary FREE delivery - and we can usually get your new top or front load washing machine to you by the next day (Mon-Fri) as long as it's in stock. Plus, we now offer paid Same Day Delivery in NSW, QLD, and VIC metro areas if you order before 12pm Mon-Fri.

As part of our commitment to sustainability, we'll also take your old washing machine, dishwasher, fridge or freezer away for recycling, for free. For more tips on choosing the right washing machine, read our Laundry Buying Guide, and if you still have questions, call our friendly team 24/7 on 1300 000 500, or message us via the chat icon at the bottom right of your screen.