SOFT VS HARD MOUNT WASHING MACHINES

Published : Wednesday, July 23, 2025

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Soft vs Hard Mount Washing Machines: Which is Right for Your Laundry Business?

 

When choosing industrial laundry equipment, one of the most significant decisions you will make is whether to invest in soft mount or hard mount machines. Understanding their differences can help you make the correct and best choice for your business. Let’s dive into the key distinctions, benefits, and considerations, to help you decide which is right for your operation.

 

What Are Soft and Hard Mount Machines?

 

Soft mount machines are designed with built-in suspension systems that absorb the vibration produced by the 450G force during the final spin. These machines are free standing, can be placed on any floor of the building and do not need to be chemically anchored to the floor, making installation easier and more versatile. Due to their higher G force, they extract more moisture from the items during the final spin which results in less drying time and energy savings. 450G will result in 50% residual moisture after the final spin.

 

Hard mount machines, must be securely bolted to a concrete plinth/floor. They do not have an internal suspension system, which means the machine's vibrations are absorbed directly by the floor. These machines need to be on the ground floor of the building and the floor slab or plinth needs to be 300mm thick reinforced concrete. Hard Mount Washers have a 200G extraction during the final spin which results in 60% residual moisture after the final spin.

 

Key Comparisons

 

1. Installation Requirements

• Soft Mount Machines: Can be installed on upper floors or areas with standard flooring due to their suspension system. They require minimal site preparation and are easier to relocate if needed.
• Hard Mount Machines: Require a reinforced concrete plinth/floor for stability, making them suitable only for ground-floor installations.

2. Cost

• Soft Mount Machines: They have a higher upfront cost due to their infrastructure. However, they generate energy savings and yield faster production times. The difference in capital cost is recouped easily and they work out to be a more affordable option when the energy savings are taken into consideration.
• Hard Mount Machines: More affordable initially but will incur higher installation costs because of the need for reinforced flooring.

 

3. Flexibility

• Soft Mount Machines: Highly versatile and can be moved or reinstalled with minimal effort, making them ideal for businesses expecting growth or changes in layout.
• Hard Mount Machines: Fixed installations make them less portable but highly stable and reliable once set up.

  

Choosing between soft and hard mount machines is a critical decision that depends on your business’s specific needs, location, and budget. Both options offer exceptional performance when used in the right context. Consider the pros and cons, so that you can select the correct equipment that maximises efficiency, reduces costs, and supports your laundry business’s growth.