When choosing a washer, you want to consider what type of washing machine you want. For example, there are integrated and freestanding washing machines. But what is the difference between an integrated washing machine and a normal one?

If you are buying a new washing machine, you want it to blend in the space where you plan to keep it. When your washing machine is different from the rest of your room, it will stick out, which you want to avoid. 

So, continue reading if you want to find out the difference between an integrated washing machine and a normal one.

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What Is the Difference Between an Integrated Washing Machine and a Normal One?

The main difference between an integrated washing machine and a normal (freestanding) one is that an integrated washer is built into the surrounding decor. 

Typically integrated washing machines are put in the kitchen with a cupboard door in front of them, which gives them more stability. 

Integrated vs. Free-Standing Washing Machine

Among the most useful home appliances created are washing machines. With them, the manual task of hand washing clothes is no more.

Today, there are various types of washing machines that fit anyone’s preferences – top-loading and front-loading washers.

Moreover, there are also integrated and freestanding washing machines. In a fitted kitchen, an integrated washing machine is concealed behind one of the cabinet doors, making it impossible to see it when the door is closed. 

Integrated washing machines differ significantly from traditional freestanding machines in important ways since they are specifically made to fit inside an enclosed space.

While integrated and freestanding washing machines perform the same tasks, they differ significantly in some important ways that make it unsafe to use an integrated washing machine as a freestanding one and vice versa.

Read more: What Is The Best Washing Machine For A Large Family?

Integrated washing machines

  • Easily integrate into your fitted kitchen.
  • More silent than freestanding machines.
  • Significantly smaller than standalone machines in terms of size.
  • Have a reduced load capacity from time to time or provide slower spin speeds.
  • Due to the complexity of their design, the additional fittings needed, and the smaller manufacturing volumes, it may be more expensive.
  • Installing something more complicated will cost more money.

Free-standing washing machines 

  • They are easier to install.
  • On average, they are cheaper than integrated washers.
  • Have a larger wash load capacity.
  • It is easier to remove it and relocate it.
  • There is more choice in freestanding washing machines than integrated ones.

How Do Integrated Washing Machines Work?

The front of integrated washing machines, sometimes referred to as “built-in washing machines“, typically have a cabinet door attached to the machine to resemble a kitchen cabinet.

Integrated washing machines are thinner and shorter than freestanding machines because they take up less room. Additionally, it implies that their load capacity is frequently lower than normal washing machines.

Integrated washing machines are supported and stabilized by the cabinet to which they are mounted. Thus, they must always be installed appropriately before use.

Additionally, they typically spin at lesser speeds than freestanding machines because excessive spin speeds could cause problems for cabinet doors and other nearby units or appliances due to vibrations.

How Do Freestanding Washing Machines Work?

A freestanding washing may be utilized without anything surrounding it, which is why it is called “freestanding”, aside from the services it needs, such as water, garbage, and power.

These washing machines are more stable because the bottom is not lowered to accommodate a plinth in front. 

More prevalent and portable, freestanding washing machines can be put wherever you want as long as they can be hooked to a conventional power outlet and connected to a drain.

The selection of freestanding washing machines is much wider.

Also read: What Is A Washing Machine With An Agitator?

Conclusion

What is the difference between an integrated washing machine and a normal one? The answer is that integrated washers are built into the existing furnishings. Typically they are put in the kitchen with a cabinet door in front of the machine. 

In contrast, normal ones, known as freestanding washing machines, you can put anywhere and do not require much in terms of installation. 

Also, freestanding washers are cheaper and with a greater washing capacity. Still, the choice of a washing machine depends on your preferences.