When shopping for a washing machine, spin speed is one of the first specifications people notice. You’ll often see machines labelled as 1200rpm, 1400rpm or even higher... but what does that actually mean, and do you really need the fastest spin speed available?
Here’s are some of the most common questions we get asked at Redmond Electric:
What does spin speed mean on a washing machine?
Spin speed refers to how fast the washing machine drum spins during the final spin cycle. It’s measured in revolutions per minute, or rpm.
A higher spin speed removes more water from clothes before the cycle finishes. For example, a 1400rpm washing machine spins faster than a 1200rpm model, meaning clothes come out drier at the end of the wash.
Why does spin speed matter?
Spin speed mainly affects how wet your clothes are when the wash cycle ends.
A higher spin speed:
- Removes more water from laundry
- Reduces drying time
- Can be helpful if you use a tumble dryer or air-dry indoors
A lower spin speed:
- Leaves clothes slightly wetter
- Is gentler on delicate fabrics
- Can reduce creasing on some items
The key is choosing a balance between performance and fabric care.
Is 1400rpm better than 1200rpm?
For many households, 1400rpm is a popular and practical choice.
A 1400rpm washing machine is particularly useful if:
- You wash heavier items like towels or bedding
- You want clothes to dry faster
- You regularly use a tumble dryer
A 1200rpm washing machine may be enough if:
- You mostly wash lighter loads
- You air-dry clothes outdoors when possible
- You want a slightly gentler spin for everyday washing
The difference between 1200rpm and 1400rpm is noticeable, but not dramatic for all users. For most homes, both options perform well.
Do higher spin speeds damage clothes?
This is a common concern.
Higher spin speeds can increase wear on delicate fabrics if they’re used all the time. However, modern washing machines allow you to adjust the spin speed for different programmes.
Most people use higher spin speeds for towels, bedding and everyday items, and lower spin speeds for delicates. Used correctly, higher spin speeds shouldn’t damage clothes.
What about energy efficiency?
Spin speed doesn’t significantly increase electricity usage during the wash cycle itself. The extra energy used during a faster spin is minimal.
However, spin speed can affect your overall household energy use if you rely on a tumble dryer. Clothes that come out drier from a 1400rpm spin will need less time in the dryer, which can help reduce electricity consumption.
If you air-dry clothes outdoors, the difference may matter less. If you regularly dry indoors or use a tumble dryer, a higher spin speed can make drying faster and more efficient.
Spin speed and noise levels
Higher spin speeds can be noisier, especially during the final spin.
If you live in an apartment, have an open-plan home or run the washing machine at night, it’s worth checking the noise level (measured in decibels) as well as the spin speed.
Many modern washing machines are designed to stay relatively quiet even at higher spin speeds.
So, do you really need 1400rpm?
For most households, 1400rpm offers a good balance of performance, drying efficiency and everyday practicality.
You may not need it if:
- You mainly wash delicate items
- You air-dry clothes outdoors regularly
- You prioritise gentle washing over faster drying
But if you want shorter drying times and more flexibility, 1400rpm is a solid and popular choice.
Final thoughts
Spin speed is an important factor when choosing a washing machine, but it doesn’t need to be confusing.
Think about:
- How you dry your clothes
- What types of items you wash most often
- Whether noise levels matter in your home
Choosing the right spin speed will help your washing machine work better for your lifestyle.
At Redmond Electric, we stock washing machines with a range of spin speeds, helping you choose a model that suits your home, habits and everyday needs.