With ever-increasing expenses, sticking to a monthly budget can be challenging. So, when disaster strikes and one of your most used appliances breaks down and needs replacing, it can be pretty stressful.
Or perhaps you’ve just moved to a new apartment that doesn’t have laundry facilities, and you’re adamant about not trekking to the laundromat once per week. Luckily, it is possible to find high-quality washing machines for less than $300.
Unfortunately, many manufacturers claim they have the best budget washing machine but fail to mention their product’s poor quality components and short lifespan. Fortunately, we have compiled a list of the best budget, portable, sleek washing machines that will many a great addition to any household.
Finding a washing machine for less than $300 can be tricky, and it’s still a big chunk of money. So we’ve collated the best budget washing machine options.
They are all small, portable machines that are easy to install. They are adequate to refresh your clothing but will not have the same load capacity or spin speed as a standard, expensive machine.
There may be affiliate links in this article. You can read more about this in my disclosure.
What Should I Look For in a Cheap Washing Machine?
It can be pretty overwhelming when considering buying a new machine. It’s a massive investment, and you don’t want to splurge on something too expensive, nor scrimp too hard and buy something useless.
There are a few factors you need to consider when purchasing a new machine:
Drum Capacity
This is the most critical factor for many people, as it determines how many garments you can wash at once. Depending on your household size, this can be more or less important.
If you’re looking to purchase a washing machine to cater to the needs of a family of 3 or more, you may struggle to find one under $300. Most budget, portable washing machines come with a 3-4kg capacity.
This is adequate for a single person or a couple. However, larger families will need a larger drum with a minimum capacity of 5 or 6kg.
Spin Speed
The faster the spin speed, the cleaner and less damp your clothes will be at the end of a cycle.
The ideal spin speed for a full-size, standard washing machine is around 1400rpm, but the spin speed will be significantly slower in portable machines. Regardless, the faster the spin speed, the better.
Programs
The program options are less important but still a factor for consideration. Washing machines come with various programs, and you will want to ensure the machine you buy comes with programs you will use.
And as such, when comparing machine options, pick one with the functions that best suit your needs.
Energy Efficiency
If you’re looking for a budget washing machine, you’re likely looking to save a few dollars. Try to pick a device with a good energy efficiency rating because it will be the cheapest to run and most environmentally friendly.
Fully or Semi-Automatic
Fully-automatic machines mean you do not need to assist the washing machine; you put the detergent and clothing in, turn it on and leave it alone. In contrast, semi-automatic machines require a little more work.
You may have to pour water in or drain the machine by hand. You may get a slightly better quality, more reliable machine if you’re looking for a budget option, but it will be a little more annoying to use.
Noise levels
Some cheap washing machines are so loud you don’t want to use them- which defeats the point of having one. The more vibration the washer has, the louder it will be.
So if you have a small apartment, you may want to consider the noise level to maintain a peaceful home.
Installation
Washing machines that cost less than $300 should not be difficult to install. Many freestanding machines require simply plugging them into a power source, and that is it.
Tub Design
The tub, or drum, is where the washing takes place. It will see the most wear and tear out of all the machine parts, so its durability is essential.
Stainless steel is the most durable tub material and will last the longest. Plastic is the second best option as it’s pretty rigid, and porcelain is the last and worst option.
Best Washing Machines for Under $300
We’ve collated a list of some of the best options out there for budget washing machines. When compiling the list, we’ve considered durability, compactness, portability, capacity, and versatility.
So keep reading to find the machine that best suits you.
COMFEE’ Portable Washing Machine, 0.9 Cu. Ft
The Comfee is a fully-automatic appliance that offers several different programs.
The machine allows you to quickly customize the washing program, with load size, wash time, spin time and rinse options. The appliance is compact and portable and can fit in small apartments.
Pros:
- Compact design.
- Quiet when washing.
- Program options.
- Portability.
- Easy to install and operate.
Cons:
- The tiny washing drum
- The slow spin speed at 815rpm.
- Short electrical chord.
Giantex Full-Automatic Washing Machine Portable Compact 1.34 Cu.Ft
The Giantex washing machine is another portable machine that we rate highly. The lightweight machine provides several functions: a child lock, spin time, run time, and program delay.
In addition, the machine has a slightly larger load capacity and even comes on wheels, so it’s super portable. Giantex also comes with time and water level controls, allowing you to control and avoid wastage.
This is great for the environment and your energy bills.
Pros:
- Large load capacity, at 4.3kg.
- Easy operation.
- The number of programs.
- Water and power saving features.
- Control panel.
Cons:
- The inlet pipe doesn’t work with a standard hose.
BLACK + DECKER Small Portable Washing Machine, 0.9 Cu
The Black and Decker portable washing machine comes with five cycles, heavy, gentle, regular, rapid, and soak. It also comes with water level choice to save you a few cents per wash and temperature settings.
In addition, the little machine provides a delay start button and a quiet close lid. The machine is on the list for its price, size, high level of function, and impressive reviews.
On amazon, the washing machine is 4.4 out of 5 stars, with 4400 reviews, and is a number 1 best seller.
Pros:
- Price, at $257.
- Drum size.
- The number of program options.
- Quick install.
- Auto unbalance detection.
Cons:
- Occasional issues with leaking.
Panda Portable Washing Machine, 10lbs Capacity
The Panda portable washing machine is super easy to move around, with two built-in casters. The compact shape has a surprisingly large capacity, at 4.4kg, the largest on this list.
The stainless steel exterior is durable and doesn’t chip or rust. The inlet and outlet hoses are high quality and don’t wear away quickly.
Pros:
- 4.5kg load capacity.
- The number of washing programs.
- Stainless steel.
- The number of water levels.
- Simple installation.
- Quiet.
Cons:
- As with all these machines, the load size is still relatively small.
VIVOHOME Electric Portable 2 In 1 Twin Tub Mini Laundry Washer
This handy little machine has dual functionality, washing and drying your clothes simultaneously. Its operation is straightforward, saving you power, water, and time.
The VIVOHOME machine is durable and lightweight, even coming with environmentally-friendly components. The machine receives good reviews and is an excellent addition to any small space.
Pros:
- Spin speed, at 13000rpm
- Compact design.
- Quiet.
Cons:
- Short drainage tube.
- Minimal operation instructions.
To Summarize
You can get a decent washing machine for less than $300; you just have to do your research. This guide should help you choose a suitable machine for you, without breaking the bank.
When it comes to choosing a machine, read reviews, and consider load capacity, spin time, drum material, and the number of programs. There are plenty of options out there, and definitely, one to suit you.
Farah Zeb is a mother of five, including two children with special needs. She shares practical parenting tips and resources to help other families navigate daily challenges and create supportive, nurturing environments.
