
The Ultimate Washing Machine Capacity Guide
Whether your washer is leaky, has a smell you can’t get rid of, or is plain old outdated, it’s time for a new one. When shopping for a washing machine, you have a ton of decisions to make. Which brand do you choose? What washer features are must-haves? And — maybe most importantly — what capacity do you need?
If you haven’t bought a washer before, or if your living situation has changed since your last purchase, you might not know what size to get. This guide covers everything you need to know about washing machine capacity to help you find the right match for your family and laundry needs.
How Is Washing Machine Capacity Measured?
A washing machine’s capacity represents the space inside the drum, which determines how much laundry it can hold. Unfortunately, capacity isn’t measured in X number of t-shirts or Y sets of sheets.
In the U.S., washing machine capacity is measured in cubic feet. Washing machine capacities usually fall within three size categories:
- Small Capacity: Under 3.5 cubic feet, usually best for smaller households or tight spaces
- Medium Capacity: 3.5 to 4.4 cubic feet, ideal for small to medium families
- Large Capacity: 4.5+ cubic feet, great for large households or bulky comforters
Does Washer Style Affect Capacity?
Along with washer capacity, one of the biggest choices you have to make is whether to get a front-load or top-load washing machine. The two decisions go hand in hand. If you need more room for your laundry, consider looking at front-load washers, as these tend to have higher capacities. Top-load washers usually have smaller capacities, making them a good choice for someone who doesn’t need a bigger washer or lacks space.
What Capacity Washing Machine Do I Need?
When staring at a laundry basket, it can be hard to know how to choose a washing machine capacity. After all, how do you translate that pile of jeans into cubic square feet? The size of your household, the frequency of laundry, whether you regularly wash bulky items, and your available space can help you determine which capacity machine to get.
Household Size
What is a good capacity for a washing machine? The number of people in your home is one of the biggest factors influencing this answer.
- Single People or Couples: A small-capacity washer is well-suited for one to two people who do laundry a few times a week.
- Small Family (3–4 People): A standard or medium-capacity washing machine could be the best fit for small families doing weekly loads of mixed laundry.
- Large Family (5+ People): A large-capacity washing machine is better suited for families managing multiple large loads of laundry regularly.
Don’t forget to keep future plans in mind! If you plan to grow your family, consider investing in a larger machine now instead of having to replace yours just a few years down the road.
Laundry Frequency
How often you do laundry and your average load size can determine what capacity washer you might need.
- Small, Frequent Washes: If you wash your laundry in multiple light loads throughout the week, a small-capacity washer should meet your needs.
- Batch Laundry Loads: If you wash a few bigger loads a week, you’ll want to invest in a medium- or large-capacity washer.
Bulky Items
The type of laundry you usually do will also help you decide what size washer to get. Bulky items like comforters take up far more space than your everyday clothes.
For instance, small- and medium-capacity washers tend to be perfect for handling loads of regular clothing, while medium- and large-capacity options may be better suited for bulkier loads of jeans and overalls.
Space Considerations
Even if you have a larger household or tend to wash bigger loads, your washing machine options might be limited by your physical space. Measure your laundry area to determine how large your washing machine can be. Most standard models are around 27 inches wide but vary in depth and height.
- Compact Models: Perfect for small spaces or apartments
- Standard and Large Models: Offer larger capacities but need more room
Find the Perfect Washer Size for Your Laundry Needs at Rent-A-Center
Ready to upgrade your laundry game? Explore Rent-A-Center’s range of washing machines designed to fit every home and lifestyle. We carry the brands you know and trust, including Whirlpool and Maytag, with rent-to-own options that help you get the appliance you need when you need it.
Plus, our RAC Exchange* benefit takes the stress out of shopping for a new washing machine. You have the flexibility to exchange your item for a different one within the first six months of your rental. So, if that new washer ends up being too big or too small, you can easily swap it for a better fit.
Shop washing machines online or at your nearest Rent-A-Center today and find your perfect match!
*“RAC Exchange” program valid for agreements entered at select locations, is available to new and existing customers and applies to inventory obtainable by store location. Cash price of the item selected for exchange may not exceed approval amount, which is subject to validation and adjustment prior to exchange and may vary from original approval amount. Exchange requires execution of rental agreement for item selected for exchange, which must be completed within six (6) months following the first active rental date of item being returned for exchange. Agreement for item being returned for exchange must be in good standing (with all rental payments current) at the time of exchange and product must be in good condition. Rent paid for prior agreement will be applied to reduce the total cost to own for the replacement agreement but rent paid may not be applied in full to Same As Cash amount for replacement agreement. Any applicable Same As Cash period will apply to new agreement based on product selection and agreement term. The amount of rent paid from prior agreement eligible for application to Same As Cash amount for replacement agreement may vary from 40% to 66%, depending on your state of residence. Exchanges under program may not be combined with other discounts, offers or promotions. Participating locations only. Eligible items only. All items subject to availability and approval. See Store Manager for complete details.