Smeg WMFABAZ1 Washing Machine Review
The Smeg WMFABAZ1 is a 7kg washing machine disguised as a retro 1950s fridge. It is a distinctive design choice, but it is too tall for under-worktop fitting, requires 10cm side clearance, and conceals the controls when the door is closed. At around £800, comparable money buys a more capable washing machine from a brand with a stronger reliability record.
The Smeg WMFABAZ1 is a genuinely unusual appliance: a 7kg washing machine disguised as a 1950s-style retro fridge. From the outside, nothing gives it away. It is an undeniably creative design – but whether it is worth the money is a different question.
What Is the Appeal?
The concept is clear: a washing machine that looks like a stylish retro fridge when not in use. The fridge-door exterior conceals the drum and control panel entirely, making it something that can sit in a kitchen without looking like a washing machine at all. It is available in white, black, blue, cream, and pink.
Novelty appliances often disappoint – if something is genuinely good it rarely needs a gimmick. But there is a market for this kind of design, and the appeal is easy to understand for those with the space and the budget. At around £800 at launch, it is firmly in premium territory.
Practical Considerations
The fridge door design comes with a few real-world consequences worth thinking through before buying:
Good points
The machine is completely hidden when not in use. There is a shallow storage compartment inside the fridge door – similar to a fridge door shelf – which can hold small items. The exterior door may also provide some additional noise dampening.
Drawbacks
The fridge door covers the control display when closed, so the machine cannot be easily monitored while running. It is also too tall to fit under a standard worktop. A minimum of 10cm clearance is needed to the left to allow the fridge door to open, so it must be free-standing. Despite the extra door, some user reviews describe the spin as noisy.
Verdict
The design concept is entertaining and the styling is distinctive. However, at the price point of the WMFABAZ1, a premium washing machine from a brand known for performance and longevity – such as Miele – can be found for less. If washing performance is the priority, the budget is better spent elsewhere.
If the aesthetic is the priority and the limitations above are acceptable, it is a fun and genuinely unusual appliance. Just make sure the washing machine underneath is capable enough to justify the price before buying.
1 Comment
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Hi there.
Is this for sale ?