Help me buy a washing machine!

[LongWalkShortPlank]

Around £300, preferable with a takeaway of old and installation (on top of the £300).
I have no idea which brands are notorious for catching fire, or which ones break easier. I had looked at a candy on very but it went out of stock before I could buy it. Also looked at the Zanussi ZWF81441W in John Lewis, but not sure if it's worth the price? Help!

If you can stretch the budget, Miele will be a lot cheaper in the long term IMO.
If you buy through JL you get extended warranty.

Our washing machine repair man will only recommend (and supply) Bosch. We've got the basic model (about £275) I think and still going strong 11 years later.

If you can get to a John Lewis, I would look at their board with all the reduced electricals. You need to go with an open mind but you will get much more for your money. They don't offer an extended guarantee on all the products but they can arrange this for an extra cost. There could be a small mark on the side but once installed it is not noticeable.

If you can't get to a store, I would buy a Bosch or JL own make ( think AEG) currently they have a free installation and disposal with their own make.

Stay away from all the cheap ones such as Hotpoint, Zanussi. By paying an extra £50 now you will be happier with the washing results and the machine is likely to last longer. Buy cheap, buy twice.

There is so much conflicting information! What are the best brands in terms of longevity and not catching firevity?

You may also want to consider Buyers & Sellers. I haven't used them for ages but the freezer I bought from them is still going strong 26 years later. Just had a quick look at their website. They have lots of Bosch machines.

The London Fire Brigade has very good advice about white goods and fire safety on its website.

I will check those out, thanks guys

I've just ordered a new Bosch from John Lewis, after the old one dying after 15years or so.... new one had been £429, but they have an offer of £80 it! Great saving!!

I had a zanussi and wasn’t impressed. I now have Samsung since last year and think it’s great

Get a Which subscription for a month and check out their reviews of white goods, it will save you a ton of money. Different models by the same manufacturer may vary massively in quality.