Litres Don’t Lie

Why washing machine size is really about time

When comparing washing machines, most people look at the kg rating. On its own, that number doesn’t tell you how the machine will behave day to day.

Two machines can both claim to wash the same kg load, but the real difference is often how long it takes to get that washing clean.

See the examples of manuals of washing machines sold in NZ.

Same kg, different reality

Many machines can technically wash a stated load, but not quickly.

Short or “quick” wash cycles are usually limited to much smaller loads. As the drum fills closer to the advertised kg figure, wash times often increase a lot.

In simple terms:

  • Smaller drums take longer to wash the same amount

  • Bigger drums can wash more, faster — if the machine is built for it

 

Why drum size matters

The kg number doesn’t always reflect how big the drum actually is.

Two washers with the same kg rating can have very different internal volumes. A larger drum gives clothes room to move properly through the water, which helps dirt come out faster and more evenly.

A bigger drum, paired with a strong motor, means:

  • Better washing with full or mixed loads

  • Shorter wash times

  • Less strain on the machine

Below are two examples of instruction manuals from other brands washing machines marketed as 12 kg in New Zealand.

In order to achieve a “quick” wash of approx 30 minutes,  these quick wash cycles are limited to 4 kg or as little as 1 kg of “lightly soiled” laundry.

Instruction manual for “Brand A”:

Instruction manual for “Brand B”:

Why litres tell you more

Drum or tub volume, measured in litres, shows the actual physical space inside the machine.

That’s why commercial washing machines are described by litres. In laundromats, hotels, and commercial laundries, capacity is based on usable drum space, not marketing numbers.

A simple commercial guide is:
about 10 litres of drum volume for every 1 kg of washing

A note on wash times and machine life

When a washer struggles with heavy loads, some people shorten cycles or override settings to save time. That can put extra strain on the motor and drive system, especially over years of use.

Speed Queen machines are built with commercial grade motors and generous drum sizes, so they’re designed to handle full loads without needing shortcuts. That reduces stress on the machine and supports long-term reliability.

How to compare washers properly

Don’t rely on kg alone. Look at:

  • Drum or tub volume in litres

  • Wash times at larger loads

  • Motor strength

  • How the machine handles towels, bedding, and mixed washing

Bottom line

Kg numbers can be useful, but litres give a better indication of capacity.

More drum space, a commercial motor, and sensible wash design mean:

  • More washing per load

  • Less waiting

  • Less stress on the machine

Litres don’t lie.

The Commercial Standard: The 10 to 1 Rule

In commercial laundry, where performance and consistency matter, capacity is determined with a simple and trusted formula.

One kilogram of laundry requires roughly ten litres of usable drum volume.

This method is:

  • transparent

  • consistent worldwide

  • based on real washing performance

  • tied directly to drum geometry

  • designed for mixed loads rather than staged test loads

Examples:

  • A 96 litre drum equals about 9.6 kg of true capacity

  • A 118 litre drum equals about 11.8 kg of true capacity

There is no trickery or manipulation. It is the same rule used in laundromats, hotels, and commercial laundry operations everywhere.

How to Compare Machines Accurately

If you want a realistic view of capacity, do not rely on kg ratings alone.

Look for the following instead:

1. Drum or tub volume in litres

This is the most honest and consistent measurement. Unfortunately, many maufacturers don’t disclose this information.

2. The power of the motor

A more powerful motor allows the drum to turn heavier loads without burning out. Speed Queen washers use a powerful 0.9 HP motor.

3. Metal, not plastic components

Metal components won’t get worn out or break as easily when dealing with larger loads.