What is a good price to pay for a washing machine?

 Trying to figure out how much you should pay for a washing machine feels like trying to hit a moving target. One model’s $699 bargain is another’s overpriced dud. The truth? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — but there is a sweet spot, and it depends on what kind of buyer you are. Here's the no-fluff breakdown of what a “good price” really looks like for Australians, whether you're a renter, homeowner, or laundromat daydreamer.

What’s the average price of a washing machine in Australia?

Short answer: Expect to pay between $600 and $1,200 for a reliable mid-range model.

Here’s how the landscape roughly looks:

TypePrice Range (AUD)Who it's for
Budget Top Loaders$400 – $700Renters, students, short-term setups
Mid-range Front Loaders$700 – $1,200Families, homeowners, value-conscious buyers
Premium / Smart Models$1,200 – $2,500+Tech lovers, large families, home design buffs

Quick tip: Prices often drop during EOFY sales (June), Black Friday, and Boxing Day.

Is paying more actually worth it?

Sometimes. But not always.

  • Spending more gets you better energy ratings, quieter operation, longer lifespans, and extra features like steam wash or Wi-Fi control.

  • But if you’re a solo renter doing three loads a week, you probably won’t need a $1,700 machine with a smartphone app.

According to Choice Australia, some $700 front loaders outperform $1,500 models in wash quality and water efficiency. It's a classic case of the price-quality heuristic — our brain assumes higher cost equals better value, but that’s not always true.

What features actually matter?

Let’s cut through the tech jargon. These are the features that genuinely make a difference:

  • Energy & Water Ratings: 4+ star ratings will save you long-term.

  • Spin Speed: 1200 rpm or higher means faster drying.

  • Drum Size: 6–8kg for singles/couples, 9kg+ for families.

  • Noise Level: Important if it’s near bedrooms or living spaces.

  • Wash Cycles: Quick wash, delicate, eco – not just a dozen fancy names.

  • Warranty: Minimum 2 years; some brands offer 5–10 years on parts.

Should you go top loader or front loader?

This is the age-old Aussie question.

Front Loaders

  • Use less water and energy

  • Gentler on clothes

  • Fit under benches

But…

  • They’re pricier upfront

  • Slower wash cycles

Top Loaders

  • Cheaper upfront

  • Quicker cycles

  • Easier to load (especially for older users)

But…

  • Use more water and power

  • Tend to be noisier and less gentle on clothes

Verdict: If you're buying for the long-term, front loaders are more efficient. But top loaders win on price and speed — ideal for short-term living or tight budgets.

Are second-hand washing machines worth it?

They can be — with caveats.

Good deals float around on Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree, especially in inner-city suburbs. You’ll see decent brand machines for $100–$300.

But here’s what to watch out for:

  • Age: Anything over 7–8 years may be on its last spin.

  • Condition: Check for rust, mould, weird noises during cycle.

  • Model History: Some brands have notorious lemons. Quick Google searches help.

  • Transport: Budget for a trailer or moving help.

A second-hand washing machine might be enough for renters or uni students, but think twice if you’re doing 10+ loads a week.

What about those ultra-cheap Aldi or Kogan machines?

They’re the fast fashion of the appliance world — low upfront cost, but mixed long-term reliability.

  • Aldi’s Stirling brand offers machines around $379, often well-reviewed initially.

  • Kogan machines go as low as $349 — but customer service and parts availability can be hit-or-miss.

They can be a smart stop-gap, especially for sharehouses, but not your forever washer.

When does it make sense to skip buying altogether?

For some Aussies — especially inner-city dwellers in small apartments — buying a washer isn’t worth the space or effort. In fact, many are outsourcing laundry to local laundromats for ease, especially in Melbourne’s inner north.

And it’s not just a practical choice — it’s also about community, convenience, and cutting down domestic admin. You can get a week’s worth of washing done in under 90 minutes, no machine required. There’s even a quiet kind of rhythm to the hum of dryers, the folding benches, the impromptu chats over detergent brands.

If this lifestyle appeals, places like this offer tips and laundry etiquette worth brushing up on before you ditch your appliance dreams.

FAQ

What is a decent price for a washing machine in 2025?

Anywhere from $600 to $1,200 for a solid model. Avoid machines under $400 unless you’re desperate.

How long should a washing machine last?

7–10 years is standard. Higher-end models may stretch to 12+ years with proper maintenance.

Are laundromats cheaper than buying a machine?

Over the long term, buying usually wins out. But for renters or infrequent users, a local laundromat can be surprisingly cost-effective — especially when you factor in water, electricity, and maintenance savings.

Washing machines aren't a sexy purchase — but they’re foundational. Choose too cheap, and you're stuck in rinse-repeat hell. Overspend, and you might just be paying for stainless steel and touchscreen fluff.

Sometimes, the smarter move isn’t buying the flashiest unit on the showroom floor. It's asking how you actually live — and maybe even considering that a laundromat near me could be the real win.



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