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The 9 Best Washing Machines of 2024, Tested & Reviewed

There's a model for everything and everyone

A washing machine we recommend on a green background

The Spruce / Amelia Manley

If you're looking to buy a washing machine, you'll be met with tons of options. It's no longer as simple as considering a front-loading machine versus a top-loading machine—though, the overall design of your appliance is still a key thing to consider. Nowadays, there are washers with specialized settings for every item in your closet, particularly quiet spin cycles, and adjustable designs that'll make them more long-lasting, reliable, and efficient for your individual household. If you need an appliance that works in tandem with smart home devices, you can also consider splurging on a smart washer—and a matching dryer that teams up with the washer to select the exact setting you need for your shirts, blouses, and favorite pairs of jeans.

With so many options, you can be sure your laundry needs are met, but how do you sift through what is available to find the best washing machine for you? To start, consider your average load size, your frequently washed garments, and your lifestyle. A larger family may need a washing machine with a generously-sized, stainless steel drum. An apartment or condo dweller may need a stackable option that understands the value of floor space, while their friend may want a basic, no-nonsense washer that's easy to use and features tried-and-true cycles like normal and delicate.

Over the years, we have researched dozens of washing machines—from traditional to high-efficiency models—to determine the best options and help you in your decision-making process. We have also recently been testing a few models in our own homes and in The Lab, to see how some of the latest designs stand up against regular use. All of the picks in this roundup are evaluated on attributes like efficiency, size, value, and features, to make finding your perfect laundry companion a breeze.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall, Front-Loading

LG Electronics WM4000HWA Front Load Washer

LG WM4000HWA Ultra Large Capacity Smart Front Load Washer

Lowe's

Our Ratings
  • Cleaning
    5/5
  • Design
    5/5
  • Noise Level
    5/5
  • Efficiency
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Speed wash setting

  • Stackable design

  • Stainless steel drum

  • Can pair it with the LG ThinQ app

What We Don't Like
  • May be noisy during high spin cycles

  • Digital controls are hard to read in low-light conditions

Front-load washing machines are popular for their cleaning ability, generous capacity, and user-friendly design features. The LG WM4000HWA checks all of these boxes, and we declare it “a total game-changer" after testing it at home. We were impressed with the cycle options and cleaning efficiency of this model. Notably, the washer can accommodate laundry loads up to 20 pounds (which is about a dozen large bath towels), thanks to the 4.5-cubic-foot stainless steel drum. But, it maintains a trim profile that works well in smaller laundry areas. It is also stackable when paired with its matching dryer, so you have the option to install it in a vertical configuration.

During testing, the cycle options, including a 15-minute speed wash and Allergiene setting, were true standout features. The center dial makes it easy to select a pre-configured cycle, plus the digital control panel allows you to modify aspects of the wash process, including water temperature, spin speed, and more. The digital display buttons aren’t lit, which made it challenging for us to use the buttons in low-light conditions. However, this is a smart front-load washer, meaning you can pair it with the LG ThinQ app on your smartphone.

With the app, you can check in on cycle status, receive notifications, and even start the washer remotely. A big caveat to remotely starting a cycle is the fact that the washing machine must be turned on for this feature to work. Still, it can be handy to monitor your machine using the app, especially if you have a laundry area in the basement or if you frequently forget to retrieve freshly-washed clothes from the washer. Ultimately, this pick tops our list because it's feature-packed, intuitive, and reliable. LG is one of the best brands for washers, and this particular front-loading model offers efficiency and quality at a reasonable price.

Capacity: 4.5 cubic feet | Washer Mechanism: Not applicable | Cycles: 12 | Drum Material: Stainless steel | Smart Capabilities: Yes | Energy Star Certified: Yes

Best Overall, Top-Loading

Whirlpool Smart Top Load Washer with 2 in 1 Removable Agitator

Whirlpool WTW8127LW 5.2-5.3-cu ft Smart Top Load Washer with 2-in-1 Removable Agitator

Home Depot

What We Like
  • Removable center agitator

  • Automatic detergent dispenser

  • Built-in faucet for pre-treating stains

What We Don't Like
  • Limited retailer availability

The Whirlpool 5.3-cubic-foot top load washer is our recommendation for a top-loading washer, thanks to its innovative design. Typically, when purchasing this style, you have to decide between a central agitator or an impeller plate. A central agitator cleans exceptionally but takes up space, while an impeller plate offers more space in the wash basket for large or bulky loads, and can be more gentle on fabrics. This model gives you the best of both worlds, with a 2-in-1 design that allows you to decide on a load-by-load basis which mechanism you prefer.

Aside from its unique washing mechanism, this Whirlpool top load washer is popular for its built-in faucet. This is helpful for pre-treating laundry stains, and you can also use the provided scrub brush to gently agitate any soiled spots. The options for treating your clothes aren't skimpy, either. This machine has 11 preset cycles, and with the options available, there are 36 unique combinations to clean everything from school uniforms to any delicates in your laundry basket. The wash basket is constructed of smooth, rust-proof stainless steel for years of worry-free use.

Unfortunately, this 2-in-1 top load washer is one-of-a-kind, so finding this appliance in stock may be the most difficult part of this purchase. If you do buy and install it, know that, like our Best Overall, Front-Loading pick, it has smart capabilities for a more streamlined laundry routine.

Capacity: 5.3 cubic feet | Washing Mechanism: Agitator or impeller | Cycles: 36 | Drum Material: Stainless steel | Smart Capabilities: Yes | Energy Star Certified: Yes

Best Basic

GE GTW465ASNWW Top Load Washer

GE GTW465ASNWW 4.5 cu. ft. High-Efficiency White Top Load Washer with Agitator

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Cleaning
    4.5/5
  • Design
    5/5
  • Noise Level
    4/5
  • Efficiency
    5/5
  • Value
    4/5
What We Like
  • Stainless steel drum

  • Electromechanical knobs

  • Deep fill and soak options

What We Don't Like
  • Auto-sensing technology is noisy

  • Not Energy Star certified

The GE GTW465ASNWW is an affordable, easy-to-use washing machine. This high-efficiency, top-load washer has a dual-action centra; agitator, which is a welcome sight for appliance shoppers who are fans of this tried-and-true method of removing dirt and grime from clothes. Choosing from the 14 wash cycles—along with rinse and water temperature options—couldn’t be more straightforward, either. The washing machine makes use of electromechanical knobs for cycle selections, rather than opting for a digital display.

Despite being a basic washing machine (at an affordable price), this GE washer isn’t a total step back in time. It offers straightforward operation while also providing convenient features, like a status indicator bar and auto-sensing technology to optimize water fill levels. For heavily soiled loads, you can opt for deep fill or auto-soak. First-time users of a high-efficiency washer are sometimes surprised by the loud sounds associated with the auto-sensing technology, but it’s a minor adjustment for most people.

Capacity: 4.5 cubic feet | Washing Mechanism: Agitator | Cycles: 14 | Drum Material: Stainless steel | Smart Capabilities: No | Energy Star Certified: No

Best Stackable

Maytag Front Load Washing Machine

Walmart Maytag MHW5630HW 4.5 cu. ft. Front Load Washing Machine

Walmart

What We Like
  • Compatible with pedestal model

  • 12-hour fresh spin cycle

  • Steam cycle

What We Don't Like
  • Stacking kit sold separately

  • Must bend down to load machine

Stackable washing machines can be a major upgrade if you're challenged for space in a laundry closet or cozy apartment. This particular model from Maytag is especially innovative thanks to its compact, counter-depth size and cycles that keep clothes tumbling for as long as 12 hours. If you choose not to stack a dryer on top of this unit, you can also purchase a pedestal to make loading and unloading this machine slightly more comfortable. The stacking kit is also sold separately if you were to buy this washing machine's matching dryer. But, we should note that stacking kits are often sold separately—no matter the brand—and bending over to unload clothes is also a common drawback of stacked washing machines.

Aside from its physical convenience, this washing machine is loaded with 10 different cycles to make your laundry care truly hassle-free. For starters, the 12-hour fresh spin protects your clothes against wrinkles in case you can't immediately move them to the dryer. The extra power button on this machine gives additional stain-fighting help to any wash cycle, by transforming it into a dual-temperature wash. Stains that are best treated with cold water and others with warm water all get eliminated in the course of one cycle. We also love that this machine has a steam cycle for clothes that are best treated with steam cleaning. On top of all that, this washing machine's 4.5 cubic-foot capacity offers enough space for a small family (and the same capacity as our Best Overall, Front-Loading pick.)

You'll also save money over time because this machine is Energy Star certified, meaning it meets rigorous energy-efficiency testing requirements. Plus, this washing machine even cleans itself with the AFFRESH cycle. Simply add an AFFRESH washer tablet to thoroughly clean the machine after every 30 washes. This will also ensure that any smells or buildup, commonly found in front-loading machines, stay under control. All in all, you'll find that this washing machine can tackle any stain and laundry need.

Capacity: 4.5 cubic feet | Washing Mechanism: Not applicable | Cycles: 10 | Drum Material: Stainless steel | Smart Capabilities: No | Energy Star Certified: Yes

Best High-Capacity

LG SIGNATURE Smart Front Load Washer

The Home Depot LG WM9500HKA

The Home Depot

What We Like
  • Compatible with a SideKick model

  • Larger door than average

  • Advanced wash technology

What We Don't Like
  • Has a very wide build

  • Expensive

If your laundry day loads are supersized, choose a washing machine that is big enough for the job. Front-load washers can offer extra space since they don't have an agitator, plus it’s easier to retrieve everything from the drum, rather than reaching down into the wash basket. The LG Signature WM95000HKA is the top choice for a high-capacity washer since it offers 5.8 cubic feet of drum space and a door that is 15 percent wider than the standard model. This means you have more room to load and unload large or bulky loads.

Large families or anyone with substantial laundry needs (think, king-sized sheets and bedding) will appreciate the increased capacity of this large washing machine. Plus, the washer has LG’s 6Motion technology to ensure every clean is a thorough one. The technology offers a variety of cleaning motions to ensure that stains and soil are eliminated from everything from activewear to delicates. To maximize the washer's efficiency, you can also take advantage of TurboWash technology, which uses high-pressure spray nozzles to reduce wash time by up to 30 minutes.

To have such a high-capacity washer, you’ll need the space to fit the machine in your laundry area—along with a dryer that has enough capacity to keep up. Space requirements, paired with the fact that this washer is not stackable, are the biggest drawback of the LG WM95000HKA. It also has a steep price tag, but if you want and need a capable, supersized washing machine, this model is worth the investment.

Capacity: 5.8 cubic feet | Washing Mechanism: Not applicable | Cycles: 14 | Drum Material: Stainless steel | Smart Capabilities: Yes | Energy Star Certified: Yes

Best for Stain Removal

Electrolux High-Efficiency Front Load Washer

Electrolux ELFW7637AT Front Load Perfect Steam Washer

The Home Depot

Our Ratings
  • Cleaning
    4.8/5
  • Design
    4.2/5
  • Noise Level
    3/5
  • Efficiency
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Compatible with several detergents

  • Innovative, efficient cycles

  • Easy-to-use controls 

What We Don't Like
  • Finish scratches easily 

  • Difficult to reverse door

While there are now many washing machines on the market that have built-in faucets for pre-treating stains—like our Best Overall, Top-Loading pick—or other features to effectively wash even your most soiled items, we were blown away by the Electrolux ELFW7637AT 4.5-cubic-foot Smartboost Front Load Washer in testing. For three months we put this machine through its paces in the real world by washing soiled cloth diapers and spit-up-covered swaddles. It not only successfully removed stains and odors from them, but we also did not notice any major odor accumulating in the washing machine, which is often typical in front-load models. 

This washing machine offered great energy savings and was efficient with its water usage, too, which was very helpful for our never-ending pile of newborn laundry. We found the 15-minute fast wash and heavy-duty cycles were some of the most effective cycles on this washer, but other cycles specifically designed for white clothing items and steam-compatible items make it a well-rounded option. Plus, SmartBoost technology helps pre-mix whatever your preferred detergent type is (powdered, pods, or liquid) with the water, before rinsing your fabric for a powerful stain-removing process. We also loved that this machine was straightforward to operate, and it has memory settings. You don’t have to always reset your wash temperatures and preferred cycle. 

Despite all the appeal of this machine, there are a few minor drawbacks that we want to note. For starters, we tested the titanium finish, which easily scratches. If you typically like to store your laundry basket or drying rack on top of your machine, you may want to rethink your storage, if you purchase one of the darker finishes of this model. Additionally, we had a hard time reversing the door. The screws seemed to be too short. We had to make a trip to a hardware store for longer screws. If you opt for professional installation, we recommend asking them to switch the door to save yourself the trouble and frustration.

However, we think these quirks can easily be learned from and we still recommend this washing machine as a powerful stain-fighting model that’s also simple to use.

Capacity: 4.5 cubic feet | Washing Mechanism: Not applicable | Cycles: 11 | Drum Material: Stainless steel | Smart Capabilities: No | Energy Star Certified: Yes

Electrolux ELFW7637AT 4.5 cu. ft. High-Efficiency Stackable Front Load Washer with SmartBoost displayed on a wooden floor

The Spruce / Laura Miller

Best High-Efficiency

Samsung Smart High-Efficiency Front Load Washer

Lowe's Samsung WF50A8800AV 5 cu. ft. Smart High-Efficiency Front Load Washer with Smart Dial and OptiWash

Lowe's

Our Ratings
  • Cleaning
    4.5/5
  • Design
    4.3/5
  • Noise Level
    5/5
  • Efficiency
    4.5/5
  • Value
    4/5
What We Like
  • Quiet operation

  • Remote cycle monitoring 

  • Self-clean feature

What We Don't Like
  • Black finish scratches easily 

It’s hard to know where to start when it comes to evaluating this cycle-packed, efficient, and smart washing machine. While some might consider 25 wash cycles too many to choose from, we appreciated the flexibility and bespoke options available during our testing period. We even started separating our loads now thanks to this washing machine. Plus, it’s easy to monitor the status of a cycle and the corresponding smartphone app will even offer recommendations based on the type of fabric you need to wash. 

The OptiWash setting also automatically senses the soil level of a load and will add more time or detergent to completely clean your clothes. Aside from how hassle-free the Samsung WF50A8800AV is, we were also very impressed with its quiet operation. It never produced a disruptive noise, even during the final spin cycle. It is also easy to run the self-cleaning cycle, which helped to eliminate a musty smell that became present after a few months of use. Musty odors are typical of front-load washing machines, and you can (and should) do a lot of maintenance yourself to help prevent them from developing, including leaving the door open so the washer can air out in between cycles. However, an effective self-cleaning feature can additionally help and ensure the washer stays in top condition. 

Now, the reason this washing machine earned a spot in our roundup is its energy efficiency. In addition to the plethora of cycle settings and smart features, this machine also has a CEE Tier III rating, which is the highest energy efficiency rating awarded by the Consortium for Energy Efficiency. While we didn’t have enough time in our testing period to effectively evaluate how much money this machine saved us, we did note that our bill had gone down slightly over the first few months of us—but other factors could also have been responsible for that as well. All in all, we were very pleased with this washing machine’s performance and think it’s a worthy splurge if you’re looking to not only optimize your energy consumption but also your laundry routine.  

Capacity: 5 cubic feet | Washing Mechanism: Not applicable | Cycles: 25 | Drum Material: Stainless steel | Smart Capabilities: Yes | Energy Star Certified: Yes

Best Portable

GE Capacity Portable Washer

Amazon GE GNW128PSMWW 2.8 cu. ft. 8-Cycle Top-Loading Portable Washer

Amazon

What We Like
  • More cycles than average

  • LED display

  • Unicoupler for sinks included

  • Four caster wheels

What We Don't Like
  • May splash water during deep fill cycle

  • Expensive

While some portable washing machines only feature the most basic of cycles, the GE GNW128PSMWW is loaded with eight different cycle options and you can also choose from four temperatures. Whether you are washing towels, denim, or delicates, this compact machine is up for the task. Plus, we love that it has an impressive 2.8-cubic-foot capacity that also rivals other portable units. The major downside of this feature-packed washer is its price tag, which is equivalent to and even higher than other full-sized models we have listed in this roundup.

However, if you have a small apartment or you're looking to save space in a tight laundry room, this portable unit could be worth the splurge. It comes with the unicoupler to easily attach the water line to a sink, so you won't have to worry about a complex setup process. It's also set on caster wheels so you can move it around when it's not in use.

The LED display makes it easy to select your load size, wash temperature, and specific cycle. There's also a deep fill option if you need to wash something especially bulky, like a bed comforter. The washer may splash water during the deep fill cycle though, especially if you don't have a large enough sink to help it drain before spinning. You may want to keep extra towels nearby just to ensure your flooring doesn't become soaked.

While this side effect is certainly inconvenient, we think it can be managed with precaution. Plus, this washer's overall power, stainless steel drum, LED display, and convenience make it a highly competitive portable model.

Capacity: 2.8 cubic feet | Washing Mechanism: Impeller | Cycles: 8 | Drum Material: Stainless steel | Smart Capabilities: No | Energy Star Certified: No

Best Smart

LG Electronics Ultra Large Front Load Washing Machine

Lowe's LG Electronics WM6500HWA 5 cu. ft. Ultra Large Front Load Smart Washing Machine

Lowe's

What We Like
  • Built-in sensors for fabric type and soil level

  • Syncs with dryer

  • Energy Star and CEE Tier II certified

What We Don't Like
  • No reversible door

While this model is similar in features and design to our Best Overall, Front-Loading pick, the LG Electronics WM4000HWA, LG Electronic's 6500 series washers and dryers are even more efficient when it comes to energy consumption, cycle times, and load optimization. The LG Electronics WM6500HWA 5-cubic-foot Front Control Washer features the brand's beloved settings like TurboWash and TurboSteam. Plus, it has new AI technology that selects the ideal wash motions and temperatures, and can communicate cycles to its matching dryer—making it our Best Smart pick.

With 5 cubic feet of capacity, this washer's stainless steel drum can easily hold king-sized bedding and lots of towels to help with the overnight guest cleanup or weekly laundry list. This washing machine is also compatible with a variety of smart home hubs like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The LG Electronics SmartThinQ app allows you to remotely monitor cycle times and statuses on your smartphone. You can also stay up to date on the machine's maintenance needs with live alerts to avoid extra expenses. Similar to our Best Stackable pick, this model is also equipped with a cycle (named the FreshCare cycle) that periodically tumbles clean clothes if you can't immediately place them into the dryer.

The Allergiene steam cycle is also certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) to remove up to 95 percent of allergens like dust, pet dander, and pollen. Other thoughtful features like a control lock, add garment button, and end-of-cycle chime equip this machine to keep up with a busy schedule and family. We do wish the door was reversible. Be wary if you have a wall directly to the left of this machine—you may find it more difficult to quickly remove items.

Lest we forget, this machine is also Energy Star certified and also CEE Tier II certified, making it one of the more efficient machines on the market.

Capacity: 5 cubic feet | Washing Mechanism: Not applicable | Cycles: 14 | Drum Material: Stainless steel | Smart Capabilities: Yes | Energy Star Certified: Yes

Final Verdict

If you're looking for a front load washing machine that is easy on clothes, but tough on dirt and stains, we recommend our Best Overall, Front-Loading pick the LG WM4000HWA 4.5 cu. ft. High-efficiency Front Load Washer. It has a track record for reliable performance, plus plenty of capacity for your weekly laundry. Looking for a top-loading model? Check out our Best Overall, Top-Loading pick, the Whirlpool WTW8127HW 5.3 cu. ft. High-efficiency Top Load Washer. A first for washing machines, this model gives you the option of using a conventional central agitator or an impeller plate, with up to 5.3 cubic feet of room inside the deep wash basket.

Other Options We Tested

Samsung WA51A5505AV 5.1-cubic-foot Smart Top Load Washer with ActiveWave Agitator: While we have this washing machine with its matching dryer in The Lab, we cannot recommend this model in our list due to Samsung's December 2022 washer recall. The recall states that Samsung washers that are part of the WA49B, WA50B, WA51A, WA52A, WA54A, and WA55A series can be a fire hazard. These machines feature the super speed wash setting. While you can complete a software update to remediate the issue (We completed it in The Lab and haven't had any issues with the washer.), we believe there are more reliable picks on the market.

Samsung WF53BB8900AD Bespoke 5.3 cu. ft. Ultra-Capacity Smart Front Load Washer: This front load washing machine was one of the quietest we've tested so far, but it let us down on accurately reflecting the cycle times. On a normal cycle that was displayed as 26 minutes, the washing machine actually took 70 minutes. Despite its bespoke settings and potential, we think you could again find a more reliable and more affordable option on the market. 

Close-up of the LG Front Load Washer displayed next to the LG Front Load Dryer with the door open

The Spruce / Deanna McCormack

How We Tested the Washing Machines

Due to the space and time required to test appliances, we get creative and selective when testing washing machines. We've tested a total of five washer and dryer sets so far. Some of these models were tested in our own homes over the course of three months and some of the models we've been using regularly in The Lab alongside our bedding tests.

No matter the type or brand of washing machine, we consider their effectiveness at cleaning by monitoring how well they lift stains. We also look at the overall design of the washing machine and note any smart features, extra cycles, or standout aesthetics. Noise level is another major factor in our ratings, as we want to be sure the models we recommend would be suitable for large and small living spaces. While efficiency is a tricky category to measure, we do review our electricity bills (for those models tested in our own homes) to see if they drop in cost (noting other factors that may be contributing, too) and we also look at the efficiency ratings associated with each model.

Lastly, we consider the overall value of each washing machine by revisiting our ratings for each of those attributes and considering how long we think the machine will last, whether we would change anything about its performance, or whether we'd purchase it ourselves. These insights, along with those from our rigorous research process, define our list for the best washing machines.

What to Look for in a Washing Machine

Type

The best type of washing machine for your household is determined by the layout of your laundry room or space, your lifestyle, and your preferences. If your home doesn't have a dedicated laundry room, you should consider a stackable, all-in-one, or portable model that will save floor space or even potentially fit in a closet. While many of the machines in our roundup are stackable, our Best Stackable pick, the Maytag MHW5630HW 4.5-cubic-foot Stackable Front Load Washing Machine, is one of the most compact options available. We also love that it can be made into a side-by-side unit with matching pedestals if desired. If you have a large family or are frequently washing bulky items like a comforter, a high-capacity washer is the best option for you.

From there, you'll want to pick between a front-loading or top-loading design.

  • A front-loading washer can require more maintenance to avoid mold and mildew. It can be easier to unload and load, though, and the rolling drum is usually more gentle on fabrics since it doesn't feature an agitator.
  • A top-loading washer doesn't typically have a stackable design. It can provide a more thorough clean thanks to its central agitator or impeller plate, though, and the lifespan of a top-loader can be longer than that of a front-loader.

Finally, you'll want to consider if your machine is a high-efficiency model or not. A high-efficiency (HE) washer is typically thoughtful with its water and energy usage, helping you to save money on your energy bills. However, it does require a compatible HE laundry detergent.

Drum Size

The interior size of your washer's drum is measured in cubic feet and can range from as little as 2.5 cubic feet to nearly 6.0 cubic feet. Ultimately, the more space you have, the more laundry you can tackle at once, and the more flexibility you have to wash items like towels, comforters, or backpacks. Those who live in a small space or only have to do laundry once a week can likely consider a washer with between 2.5 and 4.5 cubic feet of space, including our Best Portable option that falls right in the middle of that range, the GE GNW128PSMWW. Larger households should opt for a high-capacity washer with between 5.0 and 6.0 cubic feet of space. Keep in mind: a top-loading washer is typically more spacious than a front-loading one. Though, our Best High-Capacity pick is a front-loader: the LG Signature WM95000HKA.

Cycle Options

Although most washers will have primary cycles like whites, delicates, and permanent press, it's essential to consider what other settings your household could benefit from. Other cycle options include towels, heavy-duty, speed wash, activewear, allergen, and sanitize. Some front-loading washers can also have a self-clean option, which makes maintaining the freshness of the drum much easier. How much you want to spend on a new washing machine will determine how many cycle options you have. High-end machines typically have more settings, and also allow you to customize your own.

"Newer models may have many cycles to choose from, but understanding the purpose and content of each washing load will help drive your decisions and help you avoid cycles that are not necessary or will shorten the life of your clothes," adds Marilee Nelson, co-founder of Branch Basics, certified building biologist, and environmental consultant. So before you opt for the machine with the most cycles, consider which ones you'll use on a regular basis to ensure your money is well spent.

LG Front Load Washer

The Spruce / Deanna McCormack

Standout Features

Bulk Dispenser

A bulk dispenser is commonly found in high-capacity washers and allows you to fill a dispenser once with detergent and fabric softener. It will automatically dispense it for 20 to 40 loads. This feature is most helpful for households who run at least four or five loads per week. When the cycle begins, the washer will use load-sensing technology to read your load and then tap into the bulk dispenser and dispense the correct amount of detergent based on your load's size. Our Best for Stain Removal pick, the Electrolux ELFW7637AT Smartboost 4.5 cu. ft. High-Efficiency Stackable Steam Cycle Front Load Washer, has a bulk dispenser. Plus, its Smartboost technology allows the detergent to be mixed with water before rinsing your clothes for a more effective stain removal process.  

Advanced Wrinkle Care

Wrinkle care technology tumbles clothes in a washer periodically after a cycle is complete. It uses a bit of steam and the tumbling motion to prevent wrinkles from developing while you’re away at work, handling other chores, or waiting for a load in the dryer to finish. This feature is usually seen in smart or high-end washers, and is made for a multi-tasking household.

Allergen Cycle

Dust, pollen, and dander can easily latch onto clothes, no matter what fabric type they may be. And although water inactivates pollen, an allergen cycle is made to specifically target these triggers and gently release them from every fabric type using steam. This new setting is typically found in higher-end models and is ideal if you live in an area with a high pollen count or have someone in your home who suffers from allergies to asthma.

Two of our top recommendations (our Best Overall, Front-Loading and Best Smart, respectively), the LG Electronics WM4000HWA 4.5-cubic-foot Large Capacity Smart Front Load Washing Machine and the LG Electronics WM6500HWA 5-cubic-foot Ultra Large Front Load Washer, have an Allergiene cycle which is certified by the AAFA to remove up to 95 percent of common allergens, like dust and pet dander.

FAQ
  • Which type of washing machine is better: front load or top load?

    There are several factors to consider when deciding whether a front-load or top-load washing machine is better for you. Front-loading washers use less water and are more energy efficient than top-loading washers. Because front-loading washers open at the front, these machines are also stackable, and can be more accessible for shorter people. Front-loaders are also more gentle on fabrics and remove more water during each cycle so that your laundry will take less time to dry. The downsides? These machines generally take up more space front to back and require additional clearance for the door to swing open. They also are more pricey upfront and tend to cost more to maintain. You often need to keep the door open in between cycles to help prevent mold and mildew from building up.

    In comparison, top-load washers are easier to maintain and can have a longer lifespan. Top-load washers allow users to open the machine mid-cycle, and will offer a thorough clean with the help of a central agitator or impeller plate. The design is not stackable, but doesn't require you to consider which way the door will open. A downside to top load washing machines is that they may not be as gentle on your fabrics.

    Ultimately, there is no true answer to which style is better. Each has pros and cons, and it comes down to personal preference.

  • How much should I expect to spend on a washing machine?

    While there are many washing machine models available on the market at a variety of prices, you can generally expect to spend around $1,000 for a newer model. Top-load washers cost between $500 and $1,300, depending on size and type (standard or high-efficiency). For a front-load washer, prices start at around $800 and go up to $3,000, depending on size and features.

    "If splurging on a large appliance significantly eats into your emergency savings—or even worse, you don’t have enough saved to cover the purchase and need to take on credit card debt—then consider buying a more affordable appliance or saving up until you can make the purchase with more financial breathing room," advises Brittney Castro, a certified financial planner for Mint.

  • How long do washing machines last?

    If you care for your washing machine properly, it should last for at least 10 years. You can maintain it by using the right detergent, since some washers aren't compatible with detergent pods or require an HE detergent, and cleaning the drum periodically. In addition, don't overload your washer with clothes and towels, and make sure your machine is balanced at all times.

Close-up of the LG Front Load Washer displayed on tile floor with the dispenser drawer pulled out

The Spruce / Deanna McCormack

Why Trust The Spruce?

Having tested and researched dozens of laundry machines, we looked at reliability, functionality, and value when recommending the best washing machines on the market. We considered each washer's capacity, cycle options, and type of agitator, in addition to dispensers, drum material, efficiency, and advanced technology. For insight, we spoke with Brittney Castro, certified financial planner for Mint, and Marilee Nelson, a certified building biologist, environmental consultant, and the co-founder of Branch Basics.

Erica Puisis is a product researcher and writer with years of experience testing and writing about small and large appliances. She has hands-on experience with both top-loading and front-loading washers. She prefers using her LG front-load washer for its gentle but effective agitation. For this article, she researched the latest models available and compared the most important attributes, like capacity, washing mechanism, cycle options, and smart features. She also took into account verified customer reviews and at-home product testing insights.

Emma Phelps, an associate editor for The Spruce, updated this roundup to include more insights from our latest rounds of at-home and lab testing. Phelps also reviewed the latest models available on the market and compared their features to our current picks in the roundup.

The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Energy Star. What Makes a Produce ENERGY STAR Certified?

  2. Janeway, Kimberly. Mold in Your Washing Machine: The Mystery and The Menace. Consumer Reports.

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