Home / Cost to run / Laundry and drying
How much does it cost to run a washing machine?
A washing machine costs about 21p per cycle.
Work out your cost
The energy label or manual gives kWh per cycle, or kWh per 100 cycles (divide by 100).
Low, typical and high running costs
Using 4 cycles a week.
| Rating | Unit cost | Per week | Per year | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low | 0.2 kWh a cycle | 5p / cycle | 21p | £10.98 |
| Typical | 0.8 kWh a cycle | 21p / cycle | 84p | £43.92 |
| High | 1.3 kWh a cycle | 34p / cycle | £1.37 | £71.36 |
How it compares
| Appliance | Typical use | Per day | Per month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dehumidifier (desiccant) | 6 hours a day | £1.03 | £31.22 |
| Tumble dryer (condenser or vented) | 3 cycles a week | 51p | £15.44 |
| Heated clothes airer | 8 hours a day | 46p | £14.09 |
| Dehumidifier (compressor) | 6 hours a day | 32p | £9.61 |
| Heat pump tumble dryer | 3 cycles a week | 24p | £7.41 |
| Washing machine (40°C) | 4 cycles a week | 12p | £3.66 |
| Iron | 15 minutes a day | 8p | £2.40 |
How we work it out
Cost per cycle = kWh per cycle × price per kWh. 0.8 kWh × 26.32p = 21p.
The typical figure on this page is our estimate from typical models on sale, as we couldn't find an independent published figure. Other figures come from the sources below. Your own appliance may differ, so check its rating plate or energy label for the most accurate figure.
Sources
- Ofgem: changes to the energy price cap, 1 October to 31 December 2026
- National Energy Action: Electricity leaflet (June 2025)
Questions
How much electricity does a washing machine use per cycle?
Usually 0.2 to 1.3 kWh, depending on the model, load and programme.
How much does a washing machine cost per week?
At 4 cycles a week it costs about 84p.
Where does the electricity price come from?
We use the Ofgem price cap average for Great Britain, paying by Direct Debit: 26.32p per kWh for 1 Oct 2026 to 31 Dec 2026. Electricity rate includes 0% VAT, which applies from 1 October 2026 to 31 March 2027. Storage heater and EV pages use an off-peak rate instead. Your own tariff may be higher or lower, so check your bill and enter your rate in the calculator.