While a standard washing machine can top out at almost 80 dB, a super quiet model is much kinder to the ears, with a maximum of 75 dB during the spin, and 52 dB during the wash cycle. If you like putting a load on before you go to bed, these machines can be a godsend – you’ll sleep like a baby!

If you’re in the market for a new dishwasher, take note of the noise rating. Ideally, you’ll want a noise level of between 40 and 50 dB which will be virtually silent – you can even get dishwashers with a level as low as 38 dB! Anything about 60 dB could make kitchen conversations a little tricky.

Modern, ‘American style’ refrigerators have a bit of a bad reputation for noise, so consider whether all those extra features are really necessary. Built-in ice makers, for example, might seem like a good idea in the height of summer, but they’re some of the noisest aspects of the entire appliance!

Tumble dryers are naturally quite noisy – but that doesn’t mean your ears have to suffer. It’s well worth checking out appliances that have the ‘Quiet Mark’ seal of approval. Quiet Mark is the UK Noise Abatement Society’s recognition of appliances that meet strict noise level criteria in Britain.

Super quiet kitchen extractor fans can help to reduce the risk of mold and mildew in the kitchen, while also keeping the sound to a minimum. They work by being mounted to silent elastic blocks which absorb sound vibrations to reduce noise. They work excellently in steamy bathrooms, too.