Washing machine buying guide for Kenya
Pick the right machine in five checks: size, type, water, power and after-sales. Start with the size finder.
Size finder
1. Size: match kg to your household
| Household | Capacity | Shop |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 people, bedsitter or 1-bedroom | 6-7.5kg | 6kg and 7kg machines |
| 3-5 people | 8-9kg | 8kg and 9kg machines |
| 5+ people or bedding at home | 10-11kg | 10kg machines |
| Large family, hostel, guesthouse | 12-14kg | 12kg machines |
| Business laundry | 15kg+ | 15kg and above |
2. Type: front load, top load, twin tub or washer dryer
| Type | Choose it when | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Front load | You want low water use and high spin | Needs steady inlet pressure |
| Top load | Tank-fed or borehole water, easy loading | Uses more water per wash |
| Twin tub | Lowest price, water rationing, bucket fill | You move clothes to the spinner |
| Washer dryer | No outdoor drying space | Dry capacity is smaller than wash capacity |
3. Water: check pressure and quality
Automatic machines fill from a tap. If your tank sits low or pressure drops in the evening, choose a top loader or add a booster pump for a front loader. On borehole or hard water, fit a hard water inlet filter. More in our hard water guide.
4. Power: budget the running cost
Inverter and direct drive motors cut electricity use and noise. Washer dryers and tumble dryers use far more power on dry cycles. Use the running cost calculator with your KPLC rate.
5. After-sales: warranty, parts and repair
Ask for the unit warranty and the motor warranty separately, keep your receipt and serial number, and confirm who repairs the machine in your town. See warranty and repair.
Buying questions
What size washing machine do I need?
One to two people: 6kg to 7.5kg. Three to five people: 8kg to 9kg. Five or more, or if you wash bedding at home: 10kg to 12kg. Businesses: 15kg and above.
Front load, top load or twin tub?
Front load for water savings and drier clothes when your water pressure is steady. Top load for tank-fed or borehole homes. Twin tub for the lowest price and full control through water rationing.
Is an inverter motor worth it?
Usually yes for daily washing. Inverter and direct drive motors run quieter, use less electricity and have fewer parts to wear out.