How Long Does a Washing Machine Last?

What is the lifespan of washing machines and which brands last the longest? In this article, we will be investigating these questions, as well as providing advice on how you can extend the lifespan of your washing machine.

What do the studies say?

Below, we will go through a number of major studies conducted on washing machine lifespan.

In May 2021, the EU published a “PRoMPT report” (Premature Obsolescence Multi-Stakeholder Product Testing Programme), where consumers’ expectations for the lifespan of various products were examined compared to the actual lifespan. The study investigated washing machines, vacuum cleaners, smartphones, and TVs.

The washing machine study involved 41,732 consumers from Belgium, France, Italy, Portugal, and Spain. It showed that the average lifespan among washing machines is 11.1 years, with Miele models performing the best, with an average lifespan of 15 years and 10 months.

These are the top 5 brands:

• Miele: 15.8 years
• Zoppas: 13 years
• Thomson: 12.3 years
• Siemens: 12.3 years
• Sangiorgio: 12 years

Newer washing machine brands are not included, as sufficient data could not be collected here.

The study also shows that most brands have a longer lifespan than users’ expectations.

You can read the entire report here.

British Magnet.co.uk has investigated the average lifespan of a wide range of home products, including air fryers, coffee makers, etc.

In the study, they found that washing machines have an average lifespan of 10 years.

You can read the study here.

In 2021, the Danish Energy Agency published a report on the lifespan of selected white goods. The survey is based on questionnaires.

The report concludes that the average lifespan of washing machines is 9 years.

You can read the entire report here.

In 2007, the American National Association of Home Builders conducted a study on the lifespan of a wide range of products and materials in the home, including washing machines.

The report states that washing machines have an average lifespan of 10 years.

You can read the report here.

Tips to extend the lifespan of your washing machine

There are several things you can do to extend the lifespan of your washing machine:

• Cleaning and maintenance: Clean the washing machine regularly, both inside and outside. Wipe the seals and door after each wash to prevent mould and bacterial growth. Also, clean the detergent drawer and any filters as needed.
• Avoid overloading: Do not overload the washing machine, as this can strain the machine and cause unnecessary wear on the motor and other parts.
• Let the machine dry: After each wash, leave the door open for a while to let the machine dry out and prevent mould and odour.
• Proper location: Place your washing machine on a level surface and make sure it is not wobbling or out of balance. This can reduce the strain on the machine and prevent unnecessary wear.
• Use of de-scaler: If you live in an area with hard water, limescale deposits can build up in your washing machine over time. Using a de-scaler regularly can help prevent this and extend the lifespan of your machine.