Washing machine size calculator
Work out what drum capacity you actually need. Too small and you'll run extra loads, too big and you're paying for space you won't use.
How many people live in your household?
How often do you do laundry?
What do you wash?
Select all that apply. Regular clothes is already counted in your base size.
Any specific considerations?
Do you prefer to wash doonas at home rather than take them to a laundrette?
Do you often have delayed washing (e.g. a week's worth after being away)?
Why it matters
Why drum size matters more than you think
−Too small
- More loads per week = higher electricity and water bills
- Can't wash bulky items like doonas at home
- Shorter machine lifespan from running more cycles
- Your weekend becomes laundry day
+Too big
- Small loads in a large drum don't clean as well
- More water per cycle even when half full
- Higher upfront cost
- Bigger footprint in your laundry
Things the calculator doesn't cover
Drum size ≠ performance
A well-designed 7kg machine will outperform a poorly-designed 10kg machine. Drum size is the ceiling, not the whole story. Look at drum design, motor type (inverter vs brushed), and spin speed alongside capacity.
Half loads aren't free
Many machines have half-load or eco settings that use less water, but they still use energy to heat the drum and run the motor. Running two half loads always costs more than one full load.
The kg rating is for dry laundry
A 9kg machine can wash up to 9kg of dry clothes. Wet clothes weigh three to four times more. Also: some manufacturers test with standard cotton loads — synthetics and mixed fabrics take up more drum space per kg.
Front loader vs top loader affects capacity
Front loaders use roughly 30–40% less water than top loaders at the same rated capacity. A 7kg front loader and a 7kg top loader both wash 7kg, but the front loader will cost less to run for every load.
Ready to find a washing machine that fits?
Our quiz matches your requirements to specific models from Australian retailers.
Start the washing machine quiz →This calculator provides a general recommendation. Actual needs vary based on fabric types, machine efficiency, load habits, and personal preferences. Use this as a starting point — your specific laundry routine may differ from the typical assumptions used here.