A drum-type washing machine

A drum-type washing machine having a drum for receiving laundry, comprises speed detection means for detecting the revolution speed of either the drum or a motor (3) arranged to drive the drum. First calculation means are provided to calculate a first angular acceleration after the speed detection means detects predetermined revolution speeds while the motor is accelerated, and second calculation means are provided to calculate a second angular acceleration after the speed detection means detects predetemined revolution speeds while the motor is decelerating in a de-energised free-running state. Load determination means determine the load on the drum according to the first and second angular accelerations, and hence the amount of laundry within the drum can be determined.