By Brittany Rowland

Maytag put out a high quality top loader at the excellent price of $499. That makes this a very affordable budget washing machine. 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 and and an easy to use console at the top. There are 8 different wash cycles on the machine to take care of most clothes washing situations. A big downside is the spin speed compared to some other washers. The 700 max RPM leaves clothes feeling damp. That is expected, but it doesn’t go as far as some of the 1200 RPM washers. With its convenient features and efficiency, that’s a great value for a top 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

Frigidaire offers another quality front loading high efficiency washer at a more than reasonable price. It can be found between $699 and $799. It features 5 different wash cycles that include bulky, normal, casual, delicates, and rinse and spin. Not the widest selection, but the basics are covered. The advanced vibration control technology keeps unbalanced loads from rocking and shaking the machine, so you can install it on a second floor or near bedrooms. The maximum RPM speed for the spin cycle is 1100, so clothes come out ready for a short dry cycle. This Frigidaire model also looks nice, with a simple, clean design and large viewing window on the door. For a low price, you’ll get a dependable washer with satisfactory performance.

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 high efficiency front-load washer from Samsung provides an excellent washing performance. It even has steam and sanitizing options. That’s pretty impressive for a washer at less than $1,000. Aesthetically it’s a handsome, glossy model with a rotary and LCD display console for easy programming. Its washes are powerful but gentle, preserving your clothes’ bright colors. The 1100 RPM spin cycle goes the extra mile to save on electricity by leaving clothes almost dry. A little bit of detergent goes a long way, and you’ll save on water, too. With the customizable settings, this washer can handle everything from delicates to bright garments to heavily soiled clothes. In the end, this one is less expensive than other high-end front loaders but still performers like the best of them.

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 model’s unique ColdWash technology is able to get warm water performance out of cold water. It is a special mode to save just a little bit more energy for the same performance. It’s also an exceptionally quiet washer considering the price it goes for. The 1100 RPM spin speed further reduces energy cost by getting clothes nearly dry before the dry cycle. The TrueBalance anti-vibration system is the technology behind the quiet performance. The detergent tray is concealed inside the washer; it glides out easily, feels sturdy, and clicks into place. At between $600 and $700, this LG model is a worthy purchase that will improve your laundry experience and save time, energy, and water without breaking the bank.

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

Don’t let the simple look of this HE washer fool you. The WFW70HEBW has a solid design and easy to use console for choosing the many options it offers. The maximum spin speed is 1200 RPMs for the spin cycle. Clothes come out of the washer with a lot of the water spun right out of them, making this one high performance machine. In turn, clothes will be spending a lot less time in the dryer. 7 Different wash cycles are plenty to choose from, and include options like delicate, delay, extra rinse, and quick. A lot of the other washers on the list offer more variety, but this one covers the basics. A price of less than $1,000 should make this an attractive deal as well.

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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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 and can put a dent in your wallet if you’re not careful. Luckily, today more models are available that are energy efficient, saving you money and protecting the environment at the same time. Consider these factors when selecting your next washing machine:

Front Load Models

Front load washers use considerably less water than traditional top load washers. Because the drums are horizontal, they cut water use by 40%, and the fast spinning motion tosses the clothes around enough to get most of the water out, meaning less time in the dryer. Typically front loaders have a greater capacity and can hold more clothes per cycle, cutting down the amount of loads. These models are pricier when you buy them, but over time you save more in energy costs.

Load-Sensing Models

Many newer washing machine models have automatic sensors that determine the size of the load and add the appropriate amount of water. With this feature and other smart technologies, getting the most economical use out of your washer has never been simpler.

EnergyGuide Label

The DOE puts out this invaluable comparison guide on all washer models. The EnergyGuide label lets you know exactly how much energy your machine uses, how that compares to other models, and how much energy it spends in a year.

Energy Star

A joint effort by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the DOE, Energy Star recognizes the most energy efficient and eco-friendly products on the market. An Energy Star washing machine, either top load or front load, uses up to 50% less energy than other machines.

Also remember that 90% of energy costs comes from using hot water, so use hot cycles only for the dirtiest clothes.

Reading an EnergyGuide label
Photo source: abt.com

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 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 armfuls of clothes is not easy on the back. That’s why many manufacturers are offering pedestals as an extra accessory for these new style washers and dryers.

Pedestals raise the washer 8 to 15 inches and include a drawer for additional storage. They typically run between $150 and $200, depending on the brand and the special features. (Need a self-closing drawer? Probably not.) Customers seem to appreciate the convenience factor of
having extra space for laundry detergent and dryer sheets and having the washer and dryer at an easier-to-reach height. Some industrious folks have actually skipped the extra cost and designed their own DIY pedestals.

The pedestals are a feature you could live without. However, you would probably be happier springing for them, especially if you are making the transition from top loader to front loader. More people are working these appliances into their household décor, not hiding them away in a closet or laundry room. Not only do pedestals look nice, they’re a practical feature that will make laundry time much easier on your back.

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]

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]

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]

10 Tips for Improving the Efficiency and Performance of Your Dryer

1. Look for an energy-efficient model. A dryer’s efficiency is measured in terms of the energy factor, or the pounds of clothes dried per kilowatt-hour of electricity. The higher the energy factor, the more efficient the dryer. Even if an energy-efficient model costs … [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]

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]

By Brittany Rowland

For a less expensive model ($700), this GE washer provides a very satisfactory washing and is highly energy and water efficient. The rotary dial makes the washing options easy to program, and an LED screen shows what cycle’s in progress and gives a countdown. The curved handle bar is easier to open, even though it’s for left-handed people. This GE model has a clean, pleasant design and offers top performance and capacity 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

By Brittany Rowland

This Maytag model keeps your clothes, bedding, and towels fresh and germ free with a steam sanitizing cycle. Even tough stains are no match for the Oxi Treat cycle. Hate the stale, soggy smell of wet clothes left too long in the washer? Even if you’re away for long periods of time and can’t move the laundry to the dryer right away, the 10 Hour Fresh Hold option keeps your clothes fresh by tumbling them every 13 minutes after the cycle has ended. At $1300, this Maytag performs well and has a sleek, shiny design. The large clear viewing window lets you watch the machine at work, because it’s so quiet you might forget it’s running.

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

Whirlpool added another striking washer to its lineup with this white-with-chrome-accents model. With its generously large capacity, it can hold whatever you feel needs a good steam washing: rugs, bedding, clothes, and bulky coats. A special advantage it has over other front loaders is the add-a-garment feature, so you can throw in that last-minute pair of socks even after the cycle has started. Auto sensors detect the size of your load to determine the exact amount of water to use and the right temperature—all without overheating, shrinking, or fading your clothes.

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

By Brittany Rowland

At just $634.11, this Frigidaire front loader is an excellent value for the high performance it provides. Its controls are easy to program, and with 3.5 cu. ft. capacity it holds a fair amount of laundry while cutting down on water and energy use. Whites will stay bright and colors won’t fade with the 14 different washing cycles, and it’s quiet and vibration free even during the spin cycle. This Frigidaire is an attractive, reliable model, offering top quality performance for 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

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By Brittany Rowland

This highly efficient front loader from Samsung gives an excellent cleaning with steam and sanitizing options. Aesthetically it’s a handsome, glossy model with a rotary and LCD display console for easy programming. Its washes are powerful but gentle, preserving your clothes’ bright colors. A little bit of detergent goes a long way, and you’ll save on water, too. With the customizable settings, this washer can handle everything from delicates to bright garments to heavily soiled clothes. And at $969, it’s less expensive than other high-end front loaders and still a top performer. .

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

Frigidaire offers another quality front loader for a reasonable price, just $676. Its quick washes mean you can have fresh laundry in just under an hour. With its sturdy construction and anti-vibration technology, even unbalanced loads won’t rock and shake the machine, so you can install it on a second floor or near bedrooms. This Frigidaire model also looks nice, with a simple, clean design and large viewing window on the door. For a low price, you’ll get a dependable washer with satisfactory performance. .

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 model’s unique WaveForce technology uses rapid spinning and a strong jet spray system to thoroughly wash clothes while preserving their quality. Its cold water option gives the same powerful cleaning as a hot wash without the additional energy use. And hold the lid open and let it go—there’s no slam! The clear glass door closes with a gentle thud. The console has a brightly-lit LED screen for easy reading and displays the estimated time remaining and processing status (load sensing, wash, rinse, and spin). The detergent tray is concealed inside the washer; it glides out easily, feels sturdy, and clicks into place. At $1099.00, this LG model is a worthy purchase that will improve your laundry experience and save time, energy, and water. .

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 With a cold wash setting and steam cleaning, this LG model penetrates deep into fabrics to remove wrinkles and eliminate odors. It saves energy, too. A bright LCD display shows all the cleaning options, including an Allergiene cycle, which removes 95% of common allergens from clothes. The design is sleek and streamlined, with the console at an easy-to-reach chest level. The door handle, curiously, is for lefties—fine if you have the dryer next to it for an easy transfer. With such a large capacity, you can wash more clothes in fewer loads. At $1499.00, this washer is an investment, but perfect for families with allergies or pets. .

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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