Using a Japanese washing machine can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the appliances. With various types and popular brands, it’s important to know how to operate them. In this guide, we’ll cover the different types of Japanese washing machines and how to use them effectively. Whether you’re new to Japan or just need a quick guide, this article will help you navigate your washing machine with ease.
Table of Contents
If you’d like to learn more about useful guides for your daily life in Japan, please check the link below.
Chapter 1: Main Washing Machine Types in Japan
Japanese washing machines are mainly divided into two types: 縦型（たてがた / top-loading） and ドラム式（どらむしき / front-loading drum）. The cleaning power is basically the same, but how they wash, how much water they use, and other features are different.
| Feature | 縦型 (Top-Loading) | ドラム式 (Drum-Type) |
|---|---|---|
|
Opening Style |
Top |
Front |
|
Washing Method |
Agitating with impeller |
Pounding & kneading combo |
|
Water Usage |
More |
Less |
|
Oily Stains |
Standard |
Strong against oily stains |
|
Price |
Usually cheaper |
Usually more expensive |
|
Common Usage |
Widely used in homes |
Popular in modern households |
Chapter 2: Popular Washing Machine Brands in Japan
Japanese Brands
Panasonic（パナソニック）: Reliable, eco-friendly, and AI features.
Hitachi（日立）: Strong cleaning power and quiet operation.
Toshiba（東芝）: Compact models for small spaces.
Sharp（シャープ）: Plasma Cluster for odor control.
AQUA（アクア）: Affordable and basic models.
Chinese Brands
Haier（ハイアール）: Budget-friendly, compact models.
Hisense（ハイセンス）: Simple, affordable options.
Korean Brands
LG（エルジー）: Stylish, steam wash, and AI sensors.
Samsung（サムスン）: High-tech, less common in Japan.
These brands are available at major stores like Bic Camera, Yodobashi, and online platforms like Amazon Japan.
Chapter 3: Understanding the Basic Menu
Japanese washing machines have a simple yet detailed control panel. Here’s an explanation of the main buttons and settings you’ll encounter:
Basic Buttons
電源 (でんげん / Power): Turns the machine on or off.
入 (いり / On): Starts the washing cycle.
切 (きり / Off): Stops or cancels the current cycle.
Common Settings
洗剤 (せんざい / Detergent): Add detergent here.
柔軟剤 (じゅうなんざい / Fabric Softener): For softening clothes, add here.
自動投入 (じどうとうにゅう / Automatic Detergent Dispenser): Automatically adds detergent based on load size.
つけおき (Soak): Soaks clothes before washing to loosen dirt.
水量 (すいりょう / Water Level): Adjusts the water amount for the wash.
洗い (あらい / Wash): The main washing cycle.
すすぎ (Rinse): Rinses clothes after washing.
脱水 (だっすい / Spin): Spins clothes to remove excess water.
乾燥 (かんそう / Dry): Dries clothes (if the machine has a dryer function).
コース (Course): Select the washing course, such as Quick, Normal, or Heavy.
手洗い (てあらい / Hand Wash): A gentler wash cycle for delicate clothes.
毛布 (もうふ / Blanket): Special cycle for washing blankets.
槽洗浄 (そうせんじょう / Drum Cleaning): Cleans the drum to remove detergent buildup.
予約 (よやく / Timer): Set a timer to start the washing cycle at a later time.
Chapter4: How to Use Japanese Washing Machine
While many washing machines have additional features depending on the model, the basic process is as follows:
Open the water faucet
Turn on the water supply to the washing machine.Load your clothes
Place your clothes into the washing machine.Close the door and turn on the power
Close the washing machine door and press the [Power] button (電源) to turn it on.Select the cycle
Press the [Wash/Dry] button (洗乾) and choose the wash cycle (コース) you want.Start the process
Press the [Start] button (スタート) to begin the wash.For manual detergent addition, follow the recommended amount displayed
If you’re adding detergent manually, follow the suggested amount shown on the display.Remove the clothes
Once the washing cycle is complete, take your clothes out of the machine.
Using a Japanese washing machine is simple once you understand the basic buttons and settings. With a variety of models available, there are plenty of options to suit your needs, whether you prefer a top-loading or front-loading machine.
If you want to know more about Japanese detergents and which ones are most effective, please check out our article below.
For a guide to understanding laundry symbols in Japan, please read this article as well.
