The 10 Best washing machines

Whether you need a washer that's compact or capacious, these high-tech options really are the sultans of spin

{1} AEG

This machine does everything, it seems. An OptiSense washing system works out how big the load is and adjusts water, energy and so on accordingly. The drum is large (9kg capacity) with a big door for easy access. Excellent.

L98699FL ProTex PLUS, £849, currys.co.uk

{2} Samsung

Samsung's washer uses ecobubbles: it injects air at the start of the wash cycle to create a soapy foam. The idea is the soap penetrates deeper, faster even in cold water. This 9kg model includes programmes as short as 15 minutes.

WF906U4SAWQ, £749.99, comet.co.uk

{3} Electrolux

The drum on the Electrolux is bigger than most, with a 10kg capacity. Even better, it has a steam function, which helps rid the clothes of wrinkles, and some clothes can even be worn straight from the machine.

EWF1408WDL, £849, electrolux.co.uk

{4} LG

LG has always been at the cutting edge of innovation with home appliances. This machine not only features a Giles Deacon design, it has a huge (11kg) capacity and 6-motion technology for extra versatility for caring for your clothes.

F1495KD6, £1,199.99, johnlewis.com

{5} Zanussi

The inverter motor on the Zanussi is quiet already but the noise is reduced further thanks to special insulation. There's a neat design, plus logical controls and an 8kg load capacity.

ZWJ14591W, £369, appliancesonline.co.uk

{6} Panasonic

This machine has what's called a Sazanami drum, which promises to be gentler than the average, and a HydroActive+ system sprays five water jets into the clothes, reducing washing times. It has a 10kg capacity.

NA-140VG4, £755.99, petertysonappliances.co.uk

{7} AEG

If you lack the space for a full-sized washing machine, this 6kg model will suit. It's 52.2cm from front to back instead of the usual 60cm or more. Features include an advanced wool wash programme.

L60260FL Slimdepht, £342, johnlewis.com

{8} Bosch

Fancy a change from white? This capable 7kg machine from Bosch is available in a sultry black hue. There are plenty of programmes to choose from and you can then opt for EcoPerfect (energy saving) or SpeedPerfect (faster).

WAE244B1GB, £449, currys.co.uk

{9} Miele

It's not a cheap option but the Miele W5000 uses steam and adjusts drum speed according to fabric, all to reduce ironing by half. There's also a washing assistant – an onscreen guide, not a person what does, sadly.

W5000 Supertronic, £2,799.95, miele.co.uk

{10} John Lewis

This washer has a smaller drum than most here, but still usable at 7kg. There's a special option for jeans, thank heavens, and a quick 20-minute wash for small loads. Basic, but excellent value.

JLWM1204, £349, johnlewis.com