No idea where to start.....and need to buy a washing machine!

[PetiteMum]

literally clueless

Look for efficiency ratings of A and better. Load sizes vary, a 5kg or 7kg will probably be fine if there aren't many people in the family. If there are, you can get load sizes up to at least 9kg. Look also at maximum spin speed, the higher the better, as long as you can vary the speed for more delicate fabrics.

You can get a trial membership at Which for £1 which will let you see all their testing of appliances and help you pick which one you're after.

OldLadyKnowsNothing has it right though - load sizes, spin speed and good efficiency ratings are the things you want to look at. It also might be worth thinking about whether you need any particular programmes. Our new machine has a 30 minute quick wash which is useful to me for shrinking my jeans when they've gone saggy but aren't grubby, or for things that have been worn once for a short period so aren't dirty but aren't super fresh either.

When you choose which one google it and you'll save a fortune as loads of places sell them

TRy which, or possibly a more pragmatic approach which has generally worked for us- buy the cheapest one from a seller with excellent customer service and decent standard guarentee,

Washing machines dishwasher etc we have had the cheapest from John Lewis over the last 5yrs or so. THese things aren't designed to last for ever, and as busy working parents if a repair is going to be difficult I'm afraid we now don't bother much and replace. As of yet (touch wood) all OK- WM 3yrs old, dishwasher older, dryer 6yrs (and sounding a bit clanky! so wearing out).

JL delivery has been good and efficient too - again it costs me money (or a days holiday) to not be at work if the delivery can't be fitted to my schedule, so and extra £10-20 on the machine price isn't un reasonable (but tumble dryers etc we just stick in the car- WM way to heavy!)

What's your budget?