Onida makes both budget-friendly semi-automatic washing machines and fully automatic top-load and front-load models. Using one well comes down to choosing the right wash programme, water level and spin for your laundry. This guide explains how to use an Onida washing machine, with separate tips for semi-automatic and fully automatic models.
First-Time Setup
Place the machine on a level, firm floor close to a tap and drain. On fully automatic front-loaders, remove the transit bolts at the back before the first wash. Connect the inlet hose, position the drain hose, and use an earthed socket. Running one empty cycle first clears any factory residue from the drum.
Using a Semi-Automatic Onida
Semi-automatic machines have two tubs — one for washing and one for spin-drying:
- Fill the wash tub with water and add detergent.
- Load clothes, set the wash timer (usually 5–15 minutes depending on soil), and let it agitate.
- Drain the dirty water using the drain selector, then refill for rinsing.
- Transfer the clothes to the spin tub, close the spin lid, and set the spin timer to remove water.
Using a Fully Automatic Onida
Fully automatic models handle the whole cycle once you select a programme:
- Cotton / Normal — everyday clothes and bedsheets.
- Quick Wash — lightly soiled items in a hurry.
- Heavy / Strong — for heavily soiled loads.
- Delicate / Gentle — for fragile fabrics.
- Spin Only — to re-spin a wet load.
Water Level and Spin
On top-loaders, match the water level to the load size — low for a few items, high for a full drum — to save water and wash efficiently. Use a higher spin for cottons and a gentler spin for delicates.
Loading and Detergent Tips
- Do not overload — clothes need room to move for a proper clean.
- Use detergent suited to your machine type; fully automatics often need low-foam detergent.
- Close the lid or door securely before starting.
Unsure what capacity suits your household? Our washing machine capacity guide by family size can help.
Getting the Best Wash
Wipe the tub dry and leave the lid open between washes. Clean the filter regularly. If the machine stops with a code, see our list of Onida washing machine error codes and fixes, and if it freezes, here is how to reset an Onida washing machine.
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