Best Washing Machines
Top 10 Rated Washing Machines 2024
As we selected the top 10 washing machines, we looked for a number of important performance features, such as:
1. Variety of washing cycles for different types of fabric
2. Automatic dispensers that release the best amount of detergents
3. Adjustable or automatic water levels
4. Load sensing technology that optimizes energy and water use
6. A delay start option that lets you pick the most convenient time to run a cycle
7. Thorough cleaning that leaves clothes smelling fresh
8. Quiet and vibration-free operation
Front load washing machines are lauded for their energy-saving measures and superior performance. However, there are now several top load washing machines that possess many of the special features of front load machines without the extra cost or the need to regularly wipe down the door.
Color: White, Graphite Steel |
Available in white or sleek graphite steel, this LG front load washing machine earned top ratings for its energy efficiency. With effective hot steam cleaning, bacteria are… read more
Colors: White, Black, Red, Silver |
A high performing top load washing machine, this Maytag model sports a stylish design with its tempered glass lid and visually pleasing spread of controls. For a mid-range washing machine at $849.60, it also has a lot of convenient features… read more
Colors: White, Stainless Platinum |
With a tempered glass lid, you can watch the foam cleaning action of this Samsung top load washing machine, which runs for around $900. The extra-large capacity stainless steel drum holds bulky loads and the diamond drum design is gentle… read more
$699 |
An energy-efficient top-load washing machine with a sleek design, the Samsung WA45H7000AW has a capacious 4.5 cubic foot tub…read more
Color: White |
A stylish top load washing machine with a dial and LED display on its panel, this LG model plays a cheerful chime to let you know when your cycle is complete. The stainless steel tub is durable … read more
Colors: White, Metallic Silver |
A clear tempered glass lid atop this Whirlpool washing machine lets you watch the cleaning action in progress. With a generous size tub, you can easily fit bulky loads or towels. The machine’s … read more
$449.99 |
For a budget-conscious family, the Whirlpool WTW4900BW is a great value at $449.99. With a 3.8 cu. ft. stainless steel drum, this washing machine…read more
Color: White |
For a dependable, efficient top load washing machine, Maytag doesn’t disappoint with this model. Its automatic load sensing means the correct water and temperature are used, saving you energy costs. The controls located… read more
Washing Machines Buying Guide
Washing Machine Manufacturers: Buying By Brand
As you research online and visit the appliance section in stores in the hunt for a new washer, you have probably noticed the variety of brands touting the best, most
reliable models. If you’re wondering which brands offer washers of consistent quality, durability, efficiency, and affordability, or even if you already have a brand you
swear by, it’s worthwhile to know each major company’s strengths and faults.
Whirlpool
Whirlpool has one of the most recognizable, iconic names because it’s been around so long
and it consistently offers quality appliances at an affordable price. Many public Laundromats rely on them because they’re built to withstand a lot of use. Most models carry an Energy Star rating, which means they are more efficient, and drum capacity is becoming consistently larger. Whirlpool is following other competitors’ technological advances, introducing steam and allergy-removing cycles to some of its higher end products. Whirlpool typically gets average to favorable ratings; with a wide selection covering all price ranges, it’s a durable, trusted brand.
GE
GE has fought hard to be known as a “green” company, earning Energy Star ratings for most
of its models. It offers many convenient features, like the automatic detergent dispenser, which stores and releases many months’ worth of detergent in the correct amount. Its machines typically have large capacities and smart cycles that determine the correct temperature and amount of water to use. GE has experimented with different colors than just plain neutrals, so if you like bright or unusual colors for your appliances, GE may have just what you want. This brand is generally reliable, but as with any company has the occasional low performer.
Samsung
Samsung is newer at washing machines than some of its competitors, but it’s quickly established itself as an innovative company offering advanced technology. Samsung’s known for leading the way in vibration reduction technology and using silver to kill bacteria in sanitizing washes. Its less expensive models are reliably efficient and effective washers, and its higher end machines have a plethora of special features that make doing laundry simple and convenient. This brand consistently receives top ratings. If there are any common complaints about Samsung, it’s that it takes longer to have skilled service workers come to handle repairs.
LG
LG models are consistent high performers and run in the $800 to $1700 range. Its top loaders and front loaders have generous drum capacities and feature many innovative technologies, like the wash/rinse optimizer and an allergen-removing cycle. LG’s claim to fame is that it introduced and perfected the steam cleaning cycle. Like Samsung, LG receives steady top ratings, which is why it has some of the most expensive models on the market. Be aware also that its wash cycles take longer to complete.
Kenmore
Sears’ Kenmore brand has been a top contender since its introduction in 1927. It offers trusted models from bare-bones top loaders at $320 to advanced front loaders at $1600. Consumer reviews consistently praise Kenmore’s top performance, efficiency, and reduced noise levels. Its models are typically sleek and attractive, and even lower end washers have large capacities. Because Kenmore can be found only at Sears, it saves you some shopping time. However, it also means you’re less likely to find heavily discounted models as they don’t have to compete with other retailers. Overall, Kenmore is a well-regarded brand with years of trustworthy performance.
Maytag
Maytag is owned by Whirlpool and has come to be known as a durable brand with reasonable
prices, ranging from $400 to $1700. Maytag produces washers for the commercial sector, so lots of the durability factors also apply to consumer models. For large families and people with pets or allergies, Maytag’s large capacities and allergen-removing cycle are big pluses. Additionally, they’re highly efficient, with some models running at just 140 kWh/year. The main downside with this company is its models are quite expensive, with only the top-tier washers offering the best features like steam. Over time, some of its less expensive washers will integrate more advanced technologies.
Frigidaire
Frigidaire has been in the appliance industry for almost 100 years and offers quality washers at competitive prices. Its front loaders barely exceed $1000, which is refreshingly low compared to other brands. Frigidaire washers are sleek and available in a wide range of colors. While they are more basic and don’t offer all the latest bells and whistles, they are rated highly for cleaning and holding up over the years. While Frigidaire models don’t have as much capacity as some other brands, they’re known for being very efficient and reliable.
There are several other washing machine brands available on the market. Some, like Bosch and Electrolux, have been popular in Europe for years and are just now gaining recognition in the United States. Whichever brand you decide to go with, be sure to read reviews for individual models to be aware of its strengths and potential problems.
Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany |
Featured Washing Machine Articles
Protecting Washing Machines in Transit: The New LITKIT
For decades past, transporting washing machines required a complicated process of securing the drums to prevent them from being damaged in delivery. Any time a washer is transported, whether by a service company or a moving company, it runs the risk of having the load destabilized or the seal torn. These companies had to keep in stock multiple bolt kits… [more]
Washing Machines; The New Designer Appliance? How important is Appearance?
With so many new high-tech washer models, as sleek and stylish in appearance as they are functional, gone are the days of stowing them away in far-off rooms. Move over, plain industrial white washers, and make room for stainless steel, granite… [more]
How to Save Energy with your Washing Machine
Washing machines have long been a huge contributor to families’ high energy bills. According to the Department of Energy (DOE), the average American family washes 400 loads of laundry a year. Those gallons of water and kWh of energy add up quickly… [more]
New Steam Cleaning Washing Machines Enter Market
In recent years, the big appliance brands (Whirlpool, Kenmore, LG, Samsung, and Maytag) have rolled out washing machines with a new feature: steam cleaning. With all the benefits steam offers for cleaning clothes, it’s surprisingly they didn’t introduce this technology sooner…[more]
Preventing Mold and Mildew in Your Front Load Washer
Front load washers are increasingly favored for their energy efficiency and conservation, but there is one potential issue with them that most people are unaware of: the risk of mold and mildew. Because the machines use less water, some have trouble draining away all the … [more]
Putting Your Washer on a Pedestal
Front loaders have become a popular choice in recent years, but people quickly realized they need an easier way to load and unload the washers. Bending or kneeling down to pull out damp, heavy … [more]
What You Should Know About Washer Warranties
Most manufacturers of washing machines offer a one- year warranty, covering all parts and labor for the machine. After the first year, the warranty typically covers specific parts. When you’re buying a new washer, however, you’ll probably hear a sales pitch for … [more]
More Top 10 Lists
Top 10 High Efficiency Washing Machines
More than ever before, people are looking for ways to conserve energy and water with their washing machines. Not only is it better for the environment, it’s also better for you each month when you pay the bills. Today all the major appliance brands are offering high efficiency (HE) washers, both front loaders and top loaders. The following … [more]
Top 10 Budget Washing Machines
Looking for a washing machine on a tight budget doesn’t mean you have sacrifice quality or efficiency. Generally top loaders are less expensive than front loaders, but there are models in both styles that offer high efficiency and good performance for a reasonable price. Here’s an overview of ten of the … [more]
Best Front Load Washing Machine
Front load washers have their advantages over top loading washers. What on Earth could they be might you ask? One of the first things to note is the extra work space that that top of the washer offers. Instead of having to keep the top clear, a front load model lets you iron or fold clothes on the top. There is also the matter of efficiency… [more]
Best Top Load Washing Machine
Price is one of the best benefits of a top load washer. These units come at a much lower price point than their front loading counterparts. If you are in the market for your first washer and are shopping on a budget, a top loader is the way to go. They don’t perform as well in the efficiency category, but they sure do clean clothes just as well… [more]
Top 10 Dryers
As we looked at a variety of dryers to select our top 10 models, we looked for specific features that improve and enhance the drying performance, such as: 1. Moisture sensors that are gentle on fabrics and save energy costs, 2. Large capacity tubs, 3. Useful drying … [more]
Top 10 Gas Dryers
Choosing a gas or electric dryer can be pretty confusing. Each one has their pros and cons, so take the time to weight them and see which would work best for your household. If there is a gas hookup in the laundry room, going that route may be a good choice. It is usually cheaper to run a gas dryer than it is to run an electric one…. [more]
Top 10 Electric Dryers
Choosing between an electric dryer and a gas dryer can be a pretty daunting decision. But don’t forget that it doesn’t have to be. If price is your first factor when weighing the two, you are in luck. You can get a solid electric dryer for a fraction… [more]
More Washing Machines
Filed Under: Appliances • Top 10 Lists