An unusual review, but may help someone out if they’re wanting buy a new washing machine or washer/dryer.
I like to be sure I’m buying the best appliance, so I was disappointed when I found independent reviews on washing machines are few and far between. So this is my contribution to the washing masses!
With my credit card full and not enough cash in the bank, I was limited to choosing a machine from one the catalogues I’ve got going. So this one came from Great Universal and cost £389. I went for this one as it had the best energy rating as well as other good settings and things. And it came in silver.
The best things about it that the cheaper ones didn’t have, is an anti-crease setting and the economy wash – done in half an hour – which is brilliant for me, as I’m always forgetting to put in the things I need in the main wash.
The other bit of information I couldn’t find, is why do people buy a washing machine and tumble dryer, when you can get the two combined. The general feeling seemed to be that the tumble dryer is better, but no-one knew why. So I’m here to fill you in on the mystery; having previously had one stacked on top of the other. So, I have found out that a tumble dryer certainly dries quicker than a spin dryer. Also, it’s best if you get the washing out straight after drying so that the air can evaporate. When I leave it on overnight, it sometimes comes out a bit damp.
If you do choose this model, please note that the instructions are not clear on how to use the washing machine bit, without using the dryer bit. For a while (it was summer, so I was hanging it out on the line) I thought – this is great, my washing is coming out really hot and almost dry! Unfortunately it did shrink a couple of jumpers though. Then I realised the dryer was coming on straight afterwards because the dryer knob was turned onto a setting. You have to make sure it’s pointing upwards. D’oh! I’d just assumed that the dryer would need a different On button, but no.
So, I hope this has been of help.
ps. At first I was disappointed as my washing was coming out dirty still, but later I realised that it was because I’d changed to Fairy. (it was all they had in the conveniant little shop on my way home). Once I’d gone back to my usual Sainsbury’s Perform + Protect, it was fine, and I’ve had no compaints washing-wise. So the moral is: expensive is not always the best!
