How to buy the best integrated washing machine

Integrated washing machines are designed to be incorporated into your kitchen units, sitting underneath your worktop and typically behind a door. It's ideal if you're wanting to streamline your kitchen design and keep your appliances hidden from view. 

But with different types and sizes of built-in washing machines available, all at different price points, it can be tricky to choose which product is most suited to you and your home.

Find out everything you need to know, from how to install your washing machine to the cost of buying your built-in appliance, so you're not left disappointed with your choice. 

If you already know what you’re looking for, head straight to our integrated washing machine reviews.

Pros and cons of integrated washing machines

Our research shows that the average scores for cleaning quality and rinsing for integrated and freestanding washing machines are on a par. 

Problems arise when it comes to individual models rather than design. Check our individual reviews before buying so you're not left with a dud.

Pros:

• They're built into your kitchen and hidden from view
• They're flush to your units, so your machine won’t protrude into the galley or surrounding space in your kitchen.

Cons:

• There are fewer models to choose from compared with freestanding machines
• Integrated models can be more expensive to buy, install, maintain and replace.

A smaller selection doesn’t mean you can’t get a great washing machine, though. We've tested integrated washing machines from big name brands such as Beko, Bosch and Siemens.

Need a new machine? See our round up of the best washing machine deals available at the moment.

The different types of integrated washing machine

1. Fully integrated/built-in

This is the most common type. An integrated machine sits in your kitchen unit completely concealed by a door (see below). It's perfect if you prefer not to have your appliance on show. 

These washing machines have a flat front with space to attach the hinges of your kitchen cupboard door. The plinth at the bottom of the machine will be recessed so the wooden plinth at the bottom of your kitchen unit can run across it. 

Fully integrated washing machines are designed specifically for use within a kitchen unit. Therefore it’s not wise to leave one of these machines freestanding as it won’t have the correct support or stability.

2. Semi-integrated

A semi-integrated washing machine also sits behind a door in a kitchen unit, but the control panel will be on show (see below) – this is the only difference from a fully integrated model. These machines are a lot less common, but they're great if you like to check how long you have left on your wash cycle.

Some manufacturers have found a way around this, though. Bosch and Siemens have a selection of fully integrated models that shine the remaining wash time on to the floor.

3. Built under

If you want a washing machine that simply sits under a worktop in between your units, then it's not an integrated washing machine. You want a freestanding washing machine. If you're searching online, watch out, because some websites refer to these 'built under' designs as 'built-in' when they're not.

If you’re not sure an integrated machine will work for you, our washing machine buying guide explains the other types available and reveals the best in our tests.

What are the dimensions of an integrated washing machine?

If you’re looking to replace an old integrated washing machine, our advice would be to measure that instead of trying to squeeze into the space it's left. Using a tape measure, check the height and width of the existing machine.

Now measure the depth from front to back. You need to add around 7cm at the back for any pipes and hoses that will sit behind.

Don't worry about the controls and dials sticking out – an integrated machine should have a flat front, plus space to fit the door hinges.

Most front-loading washing machines – integrated and freestanding – follow the standard dimensions of 85cm high and 59.5-60cm wide.

And the good news is that the majority of kitchen cabinets are designed with the standard height and width to be able to accommodate integrated appliances comfortably.

However, it’s the depth that can really catch people out. Integrated machines can vary from 40cm to 65cm deep. Not measuring before buying might mean you're left with a hefty appliance sticking further out than your cupboards.  

You should also note that drum capacity is different to size. Just because you have a large machine in dimensions doesn’t mean it has a large drum capacity. Integrated washing machines can come with anything between 5kg and 10kg drums. 

How much does a new integrated washing machine cost?

Integrated models tend to cost more than their freestanding counterparts. This is partly because it takes more work to design a machine that will work well in an enclosed space.

The best price for an integrated washing machine will depend on what you need. Like most appliances, the more you pay, the more fancy features you get. 

If you’re on a strict budget, then you'll get more bang for your buck (features, programs, spin speeds) by opting for a cheaper freestanding model.

You can still bag a bargain, though, and we have Best Buy integrated models for around £300. 

Price can play a big part in picking the perfect washing machine. If you’re on a budget, our best cheap washing machines will reveal great models that don’t cost a fortune.

How noisy is an integrated washing machine?

Everyone wants a quiet integrated washing machine. Truth is, all washing machines will create a little noise.

Integrated models don’t have side panels because they are supported by kitchen units either side, which means they can be subject to more vibrations. To combat this, most integrated models have slower spin speeds.

The door cover can slightly muffle the noise, but if your integrated model is causing a lot of vibrations, it could be down to faulty installation. 

If there is too much room for movement, the hinges are loose or the surface it's on is uneven, then the machine will create more noise.

Our washing machine reviews include a star rating for noise. Five stars reflect an extremely quiet model, while one is given to the noisiest machines we test. One of the integrated machines we reviewed scored a measly two stars for noise – that would suggest avoiding watching the TV or listening to the radio while you're doing your laundry.

Do you think your washing machine is excessively loud? We explain how to fix a noisy washing machine by following these easy steps.

Is it easy to replace an integrated washing machine?

Replacing an old integrated washing machine with a new one is possible. However, unless you're willing to rework the kitchen units, you'll need to find a model that's exactly the same size. Always try to salvage the door, or you'll need to find an identical replacement. 

If you’ve opted for a semi-integrated machine, it can be even trickier. Finding a model with exactly the same panel display size might be tough, so buying a new unit cover and completely refitting would be the only way around it.

Never try to fit a freestanding model into your units – the front won't be made to support a cupboard door and screwing holes into it may damage the machine.

If you move house regularly, then a freestanding machine is a better option – they're easier to remove, transport and refit.

How to fit a new integrated washing machine

Unfortunately, installing an integrated washing machine is harder than installing a freestanding model – mostly because you have to attach the surrounding cupboards, and remove and replace the kitchen unit plinth. 

If you prefer to steer clear of the toolbox, then you'll need to get a trader in. 

A professional will charge more to install an integrated or built-in appliance because of the extra work involved, but for more complex jobs it can be worthwhile. 

• Argos charges £140 for the disconnection, installation and recycling of integrated machines. It charges £50 to recycle and install a freestanding model.
• Currys charges £100 to install an integrated washing machine installation, £40 to install a smart model or £25 to install a freestanding model.
• John Lewis charges £90 to install an integrated washing machine, £25 for a freestanding, plus £20 to recycle an appliance.
• AO charges £115 to install an integrated washing machine, including disconnecting your old machine, or £25 for a freestanding. 

(Prices checked January 2023)

If you're a keen DIYer, take a look at our guide to installing your washing machine to help you disconnect your old appliance and connect the new one.

Make sure you read the instructions carefully – a warranty won't cover incorrect installation.

Once that’s done, your instruction manual should explain how to fit the cupboard door to the machine and reset the plinth. 

Most brands will have similar installation methods, although some functions will differ from one model to another, such as the new adjustable front feet in some Bosch integrated washing machines.

Use our Trusted Traders search tool below to find a professional installer. All Trusted Traders have been through our rigorous background checks.

Is it easy to maintain my integrated washing machine?

General maintenance, such as cleaning the detergent drawer and the drum, is as simple with an integrated machine as it is with a freestanding.

It's the repairs that can be troublesome. The pump is located at the bottom behind the kitchen unit plinth, making access difficult, especially if the plinth is stuck on. When you need to get to the back of the machine, both the door and the machine itself have to come out. 

It would be wise to buy a spare unit door when you install your machine. That way, if you need to replace it after repairs, or if the hinges become worn, you'll have a door that matches your kitchen to hand.  

Our integrated washing machine tests 

Our washing machine tests are now tougher than ever, so you can be sure that a Best Buy machine will wash your clothes well, while being super simple to use.

We’ve reviewed integrated washing machines from big names brands such as Beko, Bosch, Ikea and Siemens, plus many more.

Starting with the basics, we challenge each machine to clean a range of tough stains, including blood, oil and rust, so we can reveal the models most likely to clean your clothes well.

We also investigate how much it will cost you to run, and whether it makes a racket when it’s on. And because no one likes to be left with completely sodden clothes after a spin, our experts also check how dry garments were after each cycle.

Find out more about how we test washing machines so that we recommend the best models, and warn you about the worst.