By Brittany Rowland

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 best washers you can find for $700 or less. See the budget washing machine comparison and ratings below with a link to the full review of each.

Budget Washing Machine Buying Guide

How to Select the Right Washer

There are at least five main factors you should consider when picking out your next washing machine: the washer’s durability, performance, efficiency, and affordability, and your washing needs. If you know what to look for in a washing machine, you can avoid some of the common mistakes buyers make and find a product that satisfies your laundry needs for years to come.

Durability

Nothing’s more frustrating than buying a machine that works fine for the first year or so, and then starts to fall apart conveniently after the warranty expires. Know before you buy a particular brand if there is a service company in your area that can fix your washer should it someday have problems. Read up on the model, including customer reviews, to be aware of any red flags. Sometimes it’s better to go with a trusted model that’s been on the market a few years than to risk purchasing a brand new, expensive washer with lots of fancy features that are prone to breaking.

Performance

How well does a washer actually clean laundry? Again, read reviews before making your final choice. Customer reviews are usually good about lavishing praise where it’s due and forthcoming about any flaws. Do you need a washer that can handle big, bulky loads, gentle on delicates and tough on highly soiled garments? Look for performance features that match your specific laundry needs.

Efficiency

Everyone is concerned about energy efficiency today. Not only are efficient washers better for the environment, they help you save on your electric bill. Compare the EnergyGuide stickers on different models to see which is most efficient: the lower the EnergyGuide rating, the more efficient the machine. Also look for Energy Star label, which indicates a washer meets or exceeds the government energy standards. Both top load and front load washers have highly efficient models that help conserve water and energy.

Affordability

How much you should pay for a washer depends on the level of quality you expect from the machine. The least expensive models, with only the most basic features, typically run from $250 to $350. Modestly priced machines that can handle the laundry needs of most families can cost up to $700. The priciest, most sophisticated models with advanced features and high efficiency usually exceed $1000. Decide how much you can budget for a washer and figure out which washing features you will actually need and use. Be aware that the cheapest models are generally the least efficient and roughest on your clothes, and avoid washers with only one water level, as these waste the most water.

Know what you need

Your laundry habits and family size determine what kind of washing machine you should buy. A person living alone who only does a few loads a week has very different washer requirements than a family with several messy children and pets. Don’t pay extra for frills and features you won’t use. Look instead for a reliable, high performing model that conserves water and energy at a reasonable price.

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 Budget 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]

How important is Green Tech in Washing Machines and Dryers; Whirpool Asks, Surveys

The public is more attuned to energy saving measures than ever before, as a late 2008 survey conducted by Whirlpool shows. Surveying over 2000 people of all ages and demographics, Whirlpool made a number of surprising discoveries…[more]

New DOE Standards for Calculating Drum Capacity

As of April 30, 2011, all manufacturers of washing machines must report drum capacity using testing procedures established by the Department of Energy (DOE). These standardized means of calculating washer volume…[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 Washing Machines

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 … [more]

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]

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]

By Brittany Rowland

This budget model from Samsung just barely squeezes into the category, but it’s for good reason. This one offers all the convenience and extra features of a high end top load washer at less than $700. First things first, this is a high efficiency model with an Energy Star rating. This way you know it cleans laundry quickly and efficiently, saving you money each month and each load. The 800RPM maximum spin speed on the spin cycle is a little slow, so there may be some more time in the dryer compared to other models. This budget model sports 9 different wash cycles to cover just about anything you can throw at it. The sense cycle uses the load size to automatically give each load a thorough cleaning. Sporting a modern, attractive style, it’s as pretty as it is functional.

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

Prices

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 for each different washer model, each kit expensive and time-consuming to install.

Now Litco International, based in Vienna, Ohio, has released the LITKIT universal-fit washer kit, which fits and secures washer drums for every major manufacturer. Service companies can now use one kit to guarantee load stabilization and protect drums and seals from damage when moving the heavy machines. The LITKIT works for top load and front load washers. With this new kit saving moving professionals time and money in transporting washers, customers can expect better service and protection when it comes to their washing machine delivery.

Information about LITKIT’s distribution service is available at http://www.litco.com/litkit-distributors.htm.

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

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]

Related 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]

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]

The public is more attuned to energy saving measures than ever before, as a late 2008 survey conducted by Whirlpool shows. Surveying over 2000 people of all ages and demographics, Whirlpool made a number of surprising discoveries:

• 84% of respondents named energy, not time or water, as the most important factor in home appliance efficiency.
• 72% said they look for the Energy Star label on an appliance before making a purchase.
• Consumers want high efficiency appliances but were unaware that HE washers are available in both top loading and front loading styles.
• Respondents age 18 to 44 named an HE washer as their ideal laundry room choice, while consumers age 45 and up wanted ergonomically-friendly appliances. Hence why manufacturers are increasingly offering machines with pedestals and larger dials and buttons.
• More respondents who are married or previously married (61% and 64%, respectively) understand the benefits of eco-friendly appliances than younger, never-been-married consumers (51%).

The results may be surprising, but they’re encouraging, too. People today are generally more eco-conscious and willing to pay more for HE appliances. Now it’s up to manufacturers like Whirlpool to fully educate consumers about energy-saving methods so they can make the best informed choices.

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

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]

Related 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]

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]

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 water, dirt, and detergent residue. Left unattended, the problem can grow into a mildewy, odorous mess.

There are ways to avoid mold growth and a mildew smell, thankfully. Consumer Reports and front load washer owners shared their tips:

• Transfer laundry loads from the washer to the dryer as soon as possible. Letting them sit in the washer too long adds to that moist, mildew odor.
• Clean the door gasket and the glass window after washes and leave the door open to air-
  dry.
• Clean the slide-out detergent tray of any leftover liquids to prevent mold growth.
• Periodically run hot water washes and add some vinegar or an Affresh Washer Cleaner tablet to eliminate odors and break down soap buildup.
• Follow your product manual’s instructions for running the cleaning cycle.

Note that not all front load washing machines develop these problems. According to Consumer Report’s Annual Product Reliability Survey, only 8% of front-load machine problems were caused by mold or mildew. In a few years manufacturers may have found a way to fix this issue altogether. However, it’s always easier to prevent a problem than try to fix it after it’s occurred. Follow these tips, and your front loader should enjoy a long, clean life.

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

More Washing Machine Articles

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]

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]

Related Top 10 Lists

Top 10 Washing Machines

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 … [more]

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]

By Brittany Rowland

This Maytag top loading washer provides a deep cleaning with energy and water savings. Its load sensors and extra spin option leaves your clothes dry, scent free, and fresh smelling at the end of the cycle. A chime sounds when it’s finished, which is good because the machine runs quietly. A highly efficient top loader, it requires HE detergent, which you can store in the automatic dispenser to be released in the correct amount over a long period. With several convenient features and a wide selection of washing options, this is a better than average model for a reasonable price, only $630 at some online retailers.

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

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By Brittany Rowland

LG introduced another handsome top loader with 5.2 cu. ft. drum capacity, the greatest capacity I’ve come across. With that much space you’ll greatly cut down on the number of loads you have to do. A sanitizing cycle powered by an internal water heater eliminates common bacteria. For convenience, automatic dispensers release detergent and softeners to maximize the cleaning performance. This model can handle almost any load, and its cleaning performance is topnotch. With an Energy Star rating, you can also rest assured that it’s saving you on your utility bills. You can find this model for as low as $600 online, an amazing value.

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

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By Brittany Rowland

This budget front loader offers a wide variety of cycle options for a less expensive price (roughly $650). It’s quite efficient, using at least 50% less water and 30% less energy than ordinary washers. Convenient features include a quick wash, which can clean lightly soiled clothes in less than 20 minutes, and a hand wash setting that can handle delicate items with care. With its king-size capacity you can easily fit large comforters and other bulky items in the drum. There are no steam or sanitizing cycles, but you still receive quality performance and convenient features for a great value.

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

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By Brittany Rowland

This Samsung model offers all the special features you’d expect from a high end front load washer at a great budget price. With an Energy Star rating, it cleans laundry quickly and efficiently, saving you money each month. The washer senses load size and automatically adjusts to give each load a thorough cleaning. As with any front loader, you have to bend down unless you get a pedestal and clean the gasket regularly to prevent mold growth. Sporting a modern, attractive style, it’s as pretty as it is functional. It can be found as low as $500, an incredible bargain for a quality front loader.

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

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By Brittany Rowland

For $650, this top loader from GE cleans laundry very well and is highly water efficient. You can adjust the water level for each load so no water is wasted. Because it lacks a central agitator, clothes won’t get tangled or beat up in the washer. Also, as a top loader, it holds larger loads than most front loaders in this price range. The design is simple and clean with attractive titanium accents on the console. The rotary dials and LED screen make programming cycles easy and straightforward. Vibrations are at a minimum—no rocking or shaking. Most customers give this model satisfactory ratings all around.

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

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By Brittany Rowland

Kenmore put out a high quality front loader for a decent price. Ranked highly by reviewers, this model washes clothes smartly and is gentle on every type of fabric. The design is simple but attractive: a white finish with the seal and drum a contrasting black. Have any issues with this machine and you can press a button on the appliance and instantly connect with Kenmore’s tech team. The washer even sends its data to tech support over the phone, so you can avoid service visits. You can find it for $550 or lower at most Sears stores. With its convenient features and efficiency, that’s a great value for a front loader.

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

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By Brittany Rowland

Another quality front loading washer for only $600, this Amana’s performance is comparable to some washers on the higher end of the price scale. Although it lacks all the snazzy features of its more expensive front loading counterparts, this model is still an efficient machine that performs above average. It has its share of convenient factors, such as the delay start option, an extra rinse, and a quick wash cycle. Overall, this Amana model is a practical choice for budget conscious consumers.

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

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By Brittany Rowland

If you have a large household with a never-ending stream of laundry, you’ll greatly appreciate the LG WT1701CW, which has a 5.0 cubic foot capacity tub. With that much space, you’ll find yourself cutting down on the number of loads—and saving water and energy at the same time. This LG model boasts a gently closing glass lid and 12 wash cycles that handle everything from bedding to wool. The only complaints we had were that the tub is so deep, it can be hard to lean over to reach the bottom, and the cycle times take a long time. But we were more than satisfied with its washing performance—clothes came out fresh and stain-free. Best of all, this model is available for as low as $768.99.

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

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By Brittany Rowland

Haier’s Encore model offers very good cleaning and excellent capacity for a retail price of $500. Because it lacks a central agitator, your clothes will face less wear and tear over the years. Instead, the Haier machine relies on a pulsator wash system that’s gentle on fabrics and still an effective cleaning. Vibration is at a minimum, so you won’t experience the shaking and dancing of some other models. With so much space for large loads and high efficiency, this Haier top loader is a satisfactory purchase and a good bargain.

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

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By Brittany Rowland

This Whirlpool top loader offers a deep cleaning and can be found for less than $500 online. It’s Energy Star rated, so it uses less water and energy. Note also that it requires HE detergent to run properly. With 3.4 cu. ft. capacity, it has adequate room for average size loads. The spin cycle, at a 700 RPM speed, leaves laundry dry, and it’s quieter than other models in this price range. For the decent performance it provides, this Whirlpool model has an unbeatable price.

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

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