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    The best washing machines for big families in 2026

    Running a busy household? Then you’ll know a good washing machine can make all the difference.

    If you’ve got endless piles of clothes to get through each week, picking one with the right capacity and handy time-saving features will make laundry day run a whole lot easier.

    What makes a washing machine great?

    Large drum capacity

    If you’ve got two or more kids at home, a large drum is an absolute necessity. Go for 9kg or above because it’ll handle bulky bedding, stacks of towels and those never‑ending family loads without needing to run cycle after cycle.

    Energy efficiency

    A washing machine’s energy rating is measured on a scale from A to G, with an A being the a real money saver, since it only costs 21p per cycle on average. The latest models use clever motors and just the right amount of water to get everything clean, helping to keep your bills lower in the long run.

    Some even come with AI‑powered cycles that automatically tweak the settings to give your laundry the best clean, while eco‑friendly modes help you use less power without compromising on results. It’s an easy way to keep your clothes fresh and your running costs down.

    Time-saving features

    When life gets busy, it helps to have a washing machine that keeps up. Look out for time‑saving features like quick wash cycles, which are perfect for last‑minute school uniforms or those “I need this clean right now” emergencies.

    Some machines also come with handy steam or hygiene settings that can freshen up outfits without running a full wash, ideal when your clothes just need a little pick‑me‑up.

    And if you want to make things even easier, auto‑dose technology takes care of the detergent for you, so you don’t have to measure it out yourself every single time.

    Durability and reliability

    A sturdy build, a long‑lasting motor, and a high spin speed make all the difference when it comes to keeping up with everyone’s laundry, especially on particularly hectic days. That’s why you need a machine that can pull its weight day after day, and continue happily humming along for many years.

    Things to think about

    Drum size (9–12kg)

    Perfect for families who get through mountains of laundry

    Spin speed

    Higher speeds, like 1400 rpm models, help clothes dry quicker, which is handy on busy days

    Noise level

    Great to keep in mind if you’ve got an open‑plan space. Look for models around 60dB to stop the background buzz interrupting your evening

    Stain–removal tech

    Brilliant for muddy sports kits and messy kids’ clothes

    Quick–wash options

    Ideal for those “I need this for school!” mornings

    Child locks

    A little extra peace of mind when little hands are nearby

    To sum up

    A great family washing machine should make life that bit easier, with a large drum, dependable performance and clever features that take the hassle out of laundry day. Whether you’re all about saving energy, speeding through loads or dealing with bulky bedding, choosing a spacious drum and up‑to‑date features will make a real difference to your weekly routine.



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