Bush 1249CRL Washing Machine - White - £229.99 at Argos also available in Black

Like most washing machines this is a front loading machine the capacity is 7kg which is an average sized machine. There is also a half load option (3.5 kg).

The machines Energy efficiency class is A+. The machine itself looks like any other machine, that will sit under most kitchen counters. It basic white plastic, which may not appeal to many, but the rest of my appliances are white, so it does match well in my kitchen.

It has a choice of 15 Programmes including:

15 minute 30° C cotton wash programme
15 minute quick wash
Woollens cycle
Hand wash cycle and a
Separate spin cycle.

I have found especially with the shorter programmes that the machine will tend to leave the clothes a little bit on the wet side so they will often benefit from an extra spin. However this doesn't take long, and it really is beneficial especially in the winter months when drying clothes can be difficult.

The machine is a cold fill machine, and it although it is obviously noisy this has never bothered me, it is in the next room, and I can't really hear it if I have the television on. it isn't loud enough to keep me awake at might.

The machine does have a delay start - but I have never used this function, however I do find the digital display to be very useful as it does give a good indication of how long a cycle has left to go. My timer display is however slightly wrong, and 10 minutes left to go, may well take 13 or 14. (I've never specifically timed it just came to light the other day while I cooked).