Discover the ultimate buying guide for washing machines in Kenya. Learn tips on the best brands, where to shop, features and specs to look out for, and what to avoid for the perfect purchase.
Washing Machine vs Mama Fua
If you’re on the fence about keeping your mama fua or investing in a washing machine, just go for the washer. It’s way more economical in the long haul. Your mama fua might be a great person, but she’s definitely not cheap.
To break it down: running a washing machine for an hour each week averages about 50 units of electricity a year, which costs roughly KSh 1,000 annually (detergent not included). Compare that to paying your mama fua KSh 700 per session, adding up to KSh 33,600 a year.
Sure, she might help out with extras like washing dishes or cleaning up the kitchen, but if laundry is the main concern, a washer is hands down a smart buy.
Front Load or Top Load?
Everyone will tell you to go for a front-load washing machine, and it makes sense. They’re more efficient, use less power and water, they clean better, and they’re gentler on your clothes. On the flip side, top loaders are pretty much the opposite on all those fronts.
But before you jump on the front load bandwagon, there are times when a top loader might be the better fit. Most top loaders have a bigger capacity and come at almost half the price of front loaders. If you don’t pay for water and it’s basically unlimited at your place, there’s really no downside to choosing a top loader.
Top loaders also have some perks over front loaders: they’re mechanically simpler, so they’re more reliable and less likely to break down. And when they do, the fixes are usually easy and cheap. Plus, they don’t need as much maintenance.
With front loaders, you need to keep the door open after use to prevent mold growth and drying out those pesky door gaskets; skip that, and they’ll start peeling. If maintenance isn’t your thing, a top loader is the way to go.
I’d recommend a top loader if you’re working with a budget under KSh 50,000. If your budget is over KSh 80,000, then you can splurge on a good front loader.
Also keep in mind that while a front loader cleans better, it’s not marginally better to make you avoid a top loader, sometimes you can’t tell a difference especially if your top loader is high quality.
Again top loaders last longer average of 15 years while the expensive front loaders last an average of 9 years
And if you’re set on getting a top loader, go for one with an impeller instead of an agitator – they’re much gentler on your clothes.
What Size of Washer Should You Buy?
The general advice is to go for the largest washer you can afford—ideally 12 kg or more—even if you live alone. Trust me, at some point, you’ll need to wash bulky items like duvets or blankets, and a tiny 7 kg washer just won’t cut it.
However, if you’re okay with taking your duvets to the laundromat, then a smaller washer could work. But keep in mind, that smaller washers aren’t very cost-effective. Adding just a bit more cash usually gets you a bigger, more practical machine.
Automatic or Semi-Automatic?
The main perk of a semi-automatic washer is the price. These machines come with two separate sections—one for washing and one for drying. But they’re pretty labor-intensive since you have to move clothes between the tubs yourself.
On the other hand, automatic washers are more high-tech, which means they’re more convenient and make life easier but can be more prone to breaking down.
Washer or Washer + Dryer?
So, you’re wondering whether to go for a separate washer and dryer or a combo unit that does both. The only real benefit of a combo unit is that it saves space.
But honestly, I wouldn’t recommend a combo. First off, they’re pricey. Plus, because they’re doing double duty, they hold smaller loads, don’t wash as well, and take forever to dry.
If you need both a washer and a dryer, go for separate units. A dedicated machine will always outperform a combo.
Recommended Brands
When it comes to recommended brands, go for the mainstream ones—I’ve covered those in another post. But a quick tip: skip Samsung. They still use the pulley system, which snaps way too easily, so it’s better to avoid it. If you want more info, check out my post below where I recommend the top brands you should look at.
Read: The 4 Brands of Washing Machines in Kenya: Worst to Best
Where to Buy Washing Machines
When buying a washing machine, I suggest checking out reputable appliance stores based on what you’re after. Carrefour is great for general brands, plus they offer solid deals, discounts, and good warranty and return policies.
If you’re specifically looking for LG products, Opalnet is your best bet since they’re the official certified reseller for LG in East Africa.
For a wide range of brands like Bosch, Von, Samsung, LG, and Beko, Hotpoint Appliances is a top choice—they have the biggest selection and are highly reliable.
Just pick the place that offers the best deal for you.
