Everyday Money
Cost Per Wash Calculator
Combine machine power, cycle time, electricity rate and detergent into a per-wash cost.
What does a wash cost?
A washing-machine cycle costs more than detergent alone: energy is roughly kilowatts × hours, then electricity rate turns that into cash, and detergent plus any water or softener you dose sit on top. Enter rated watts, the minutes of the programme you actually run (eco cycles are long but sip power), your unit electricity price, and consumables; the tool reports cost per wash plus weekly and yearly totals from washes-per-week. Intensive or hot cycles change the picture quickly, so use realistic figures from the rating plate and your tariff. Compare laundry appliances with the cost per dryer cycle and cost per dishwasher calculators.
Worked example
2,100 W for 140 minutes ≈ 4.9 kWh. At £0.28/kWh energy ≈ £1.37; plus £0.18 detergent and £0.05 water ≈ £1.60 per wash. Four washes/week ≈ £6.41 (~£333/year).
Limits and assumptions
Assumes roughly steady power for the whole cycle. Heat-pump washers, cold-fill behaviour and standing charges are not modelled. Not a full utility bill.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I find machine wattage?
On the rating plate or manual — use rated input power in watts for the programme class you care about.
Should I enter eco-cycle minutes?
Yes, if that is the cycle you normally run. Longer eco times with lower average power are often cheaper than short intensive heats.
What goes in water / other?
Softener, water volumetric charges, or a rough share of water heating if your model needs it — anything beyond detergent and electricity.
Is hand-washing always cheaper?
Often not once you heat several basins of water. Model kettle or boiler energy separately for a fair comparison.