Fewer technological advancements have saved humans as much time as the washing machine. 

Imagine when people had to carry their laundry to a water source, scrub it, wring it, and then hang it up to dry. Today, almost every home has a washing machine. Throw your clothes in, pour the detergent, press a few buttons, and you’re done. 

The washing machine has saved immeasurable hours for people around the world. But while it frees up a huge amount of time, is your washing machine driving up your water bill?

When buying and operating a washing machine in your home, we often look at factors like front load or top load, or how much electricity does it use? How many of us actually ask how much water it uses per cycle? 

With concerns over our environmental footprint, plus rising water bill costs, educating yourself on washing machine water consumption is worthwhile. 

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from how much water does a washing machine use to average usage amounts and tips to picking water-efficient models. 

Plus, a look at how energy ratings relate, and whether it is actually important. 

How much water does a washing machine use?

The amount of water used by a washing machine varies based on its capacity, rating, and cycle settings. 

Here’s a breakdown of the average water usage based on machine types:

Top-loading washing machines typically use more water than their front-loading counterparts. They consume around 150 litres of water per cycle, because the drums in top-loading machines must be filled with water for each cycle, contributing to their higher water usage.

Front-loading washing machines are generally more water-efficient. They use less water per cycle, with an average consumption of approximately 80 litres. Front loaders tumble clothes through a smaller pool of water, making them more environment-friendly and a cost-effective choice.

Modern front-loading washing machines often come equipped with additional efficiency programs. These programs are designed to further reduce water consumption without compromising on cleaning performance. 

These settings may include quick wash cycles, eco-friendly modes, or specific fabric-based programs. So while these factors help reduce water consumption, the accurate answer to the query ‘How much water does a washing machine use?’ can only be answered when considering the type and setting of the washing machine. 

Can you reduce a washing machine’s water usage?

The first thing you can do is to choose A+++ energy rated models. 

Prioritise models with higher energy efficiency ratings, because they are designed to not only save energy but also to use water more efficiently during each wash cycle. 

Look for advanced technologies like sensor-driven cycles and load optimisation features that contribute to resource conservation. An upfront investment in a high-rated model can lead to long-term savings on both energy bills and environmental impact.

But if you’re not in the market for a new machine, here are some steps you can take to minimise the water consumption of your machine. 

Adjust machine settings

Take advantage of the customisable settings on your washing machine to maximise efficiency. For instance, choose lower temperature settings for clothes that don’t require hot water, as heating water accounts for a significant portion of energy consumption. Additionally, consider adjusting the spin speed based on the type of fabric. Lower spin speeds are gentler on clothes and use less energy, while higher speeds can extract more water, reducing drying time. Understanding the functionalities of your machine empowers you to optimise its performance for different laundry needs.

Only wash full loads

Waiting until you have a full load before starting the washing machine not only conserves water and electricity but also minimises wear and tear on the machine. If you find yourself needing clean clothes more frequently, consider using a delayed start feature if available. This allows you to schedule the wash to start when the load is full. By embracing this habit, you contribute to overall energy efficiency and extend the lifespan of your washing machine.

Regular maintenance

Keep your washing machine in top condition through regular maintenance. Clean the lint filter, inspect hoses for leaks, and descale the machine periodically. A well-maintained machine operates more efficiently, ensuring that it continues to perform optimally over time. Regular maintenance not only saves energy but also prevents potential issues that could lead to higher resource consumption or the need for premature replacement.

Consider time-of-use electricity rates

Check if your utility provider offers time-of-use electricity rates. 

The UK has some Time of Use (ToU) electricity tariffs. ToU tariffs are designed to encourage consumers to shift their electricity usage to periods of lower demand, typically offering lower rates during off-peak hours and higher rates during peak times. Consider running your washing machine during off-peak hours when electricity rates may be lower. This not only saves you money but also supports a more efficient use of resources on a larger scale.

What washing machine uses the least water?

Machine design and consumer habits often influence how much water does a washing machine use. When comparing front-load and top-load washing machines, there are a few notable differences in water usage.

Front-load washing machines are generally more water-efficient compared to top-loaders. Because of their horizontal drum design it allows the clothes to tumble in and out of the water, requiring less water to achieve effective cleaning.

Top-load washing machines, especially traditional agitator models, use more water for an equivalent load. While their top down design can be convenient for loading and unloading, they typically use more water per cycle than front-loaders. The agitator design, which rotates on a vertical axis, requires the entire drum to be filled with water, resulting in higher water usage.

Some modern top-loaders come with adaptive fill technology, adjusting the water level based on the size of the load. While this feature improves water efficiency compared to traditional models, it may still use more water than front-loaders.

Do energy ratings reflect water usage?

Washing machine ratings, evaluated through the EU energy label grading system, primarily focus on energy consumption. 

However, in the UK, the integrated design of these appliances often means that heightened energy efficiency not only leads to lower energy usage but also correlates with reduced water consumption during wash cycles, thanks to advanced internal sensors and precision dosing.

When considering washing machines in the UK, opting for A+++ certified models is the most straightforward path to ensure both energy and water efficiency.

Unsure where to start? Browse our full selection of washing machines here, whether your priority is cutting water usage or finding the perfect laundry solution for your household needs and budget.  Let us know how we can help. We’re always here to help narrow options too.