By Brittany Rowland

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 can handle large loads, including a comforter, with ease. The washing machine senses the size of the load in its tub and adjusts the water accordingly, saving you in water and energy costs. While this Whirlpool runs on the noisy side, its vibrations are not strong enough to shake your house. And more importantly, it handles tough stains and produces clean, fresh-smelling 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

Prices

By Brittany Rowland

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 and holds a fair amount of laundry. The washing machine’s technology involves a combination of six washing motions that get the most cleaning action for all your clothes. While there’s a bit of noise when it first starts running, it settles into a quiet, smooth rhythm. For around $600 depending on the online retailer, it’s a highly efficient performer with satisfying cleaning results.

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

Back to Top Washing Machines

By Brittany Rowland

This top load washer from LG is available in sleek graphite steel. The WT6001HV is a high efficiency ultra-large capacity washer, so you’ll never be worried about those giant loads of laundry. It uses SmartThinQ technology which allows you to monitor your washer remotely and even download new wash cycles. The Automatic Grid feature even tells the washer to run when electricity is the most inexpensive. It is all controled with a 7-inch touchscreen display instead of mechanical controls. This makes us a little weary since you never know what might happen to the electrical controls. The WT6001HV uses Wave Force technology to get just a little more washing power. This features uses powerful water jets and rapid drum movements to go the extra mile for clean clothes. Even cold washes clean well, thanks to the unique combination of washing motions that ensures every clothing article is reached. The extra-large stainless steel tub holds larger loads, meaning you’ll have fewer loads to run overall. For $1,497, this LG model has an attractive modern design and superb cleaning 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

Prices

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, and a myriad of bright colors. More frequently, families are displaying them proudly as part of the home décor. It’s not too surprising: today you can find models in designer colors to match the wallpaper and unbelievably quiet in operation.

Also, with the expanded drum capacities and extra accessories—from pedestal drawers to tuck away all that laundry gear to a worksurface for folding and treating clothes—laundry has become a faster, easier chore than ever before. Why not integrate it into the living areas of the house?

In this digital age, even household appliances are getting smarter. Look for even more advanced technology in the future. Perhaps your washer will one day communicate with the utility company to work out the best energy rates. You can be sure manufacturers are already developing the technology. Once they come up with a washer-dryer that also folds the laundry for you, I’m sold.

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]

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]

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. With a steam cleaning washer, you can cut out those trips to the drycleaner and, even better, not compromise water and energy conservation.

Steam is a powerful sanitizing method. The hot vapor rehydrates clothes and kills bacteria that produce musty odors. Thus, it’s tough on stains and smells, but as gentle as it is penetrating. Additionally, it takes out wrinkles.

Many of these steam washers have humidity sensors that detect moisture in clothes, so you don’t pull out damp or overheated laundry. The best feeling of all: pulling out fresh, nice smelling clothes, clean and wrinkle-free.

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]

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 an
extended warranty. The question becomes: do you really need the extended warranty or is it not worth the extra cost?

These days, most big appliances are pretty reliable. Surprisingly, according to a Consumer Reports survey, it’s usually within the first year of use that a washer needs any maintenance or repairs, and that’s when it’s already covered by the one-year warranty. A washer that lasts the first year with no problems will probably hold up well the next four or five years.

Many consumers view purchasing a new high-end washer as a great investment. After all, they’re spending a lot of money—easily over $1000—for a machine they expect to function for a long time. They may see paying extra for the extended warranty as a necessary form of insurance. What customers don’t realize, though, is that manufacturers and retailers carefully calculate the odds of a major appliance breaking down and the cost of repairs when determining the price of that extended warranty, and in most cases, they’re the ones coming out ahead on the deal.

Deciding whether to get the extended warranty is a gamble. Your washer could be a lemon. It could have minor repairs that are cheaper to pay for as they come. Your machine may have no issues at all. It may be wiser to spend that extra money you’d plunk down for a warranty for a better performing washer. Some people still prefer that extra peace of mind knowing their appliances are covered. Before you decide anything, just be sure that you understand all the terms of agreement so there are no nasty surprises down the road.

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]

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]

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

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 on fabrics with no agitator. Stylish in appearance, the console is slightly busy with a mix of button menus and a dial, but it doesn’t take long to figure out all the controls. Automatic dispensers and a delay start option make doing laundry more convenient for you. All together, it’s a quiet, high-performing model with advanced cleaning options.

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

By Brittany Rowland

Featuring an extra-large stainless steel tub, this GE top load washing machine holds even the bulkiest loads. Its range of cycles include wool, sanitizing, quick wash, and a customizable My Wash setting that saves your most frequent or favorite cleaning options. With an internal water heater that allows for sanitizing, your clothes will come out smelling fresh and germ-free. The automatic detergent dispenser is another handy feature, releasing the soap at the best times to get it to soak through the load thoroughly. For $825.44, this GE model is an efficient and effective performer.

Prices

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

A top load washing machine with the washing capabilities of a front loader, this Fisher & Paykel model has adequate capacity for the average size load and a low profile agitator that gets rid of dirt and soil in your clothes. Its clean white design is offset only by a thin control panel across the top with clearly labeled touchpad buttons. Convenient features include three spin speeds, a clear LED display, and an automatic lint disposal system. For $689, this washing machine allows you to choose between traditional and high efficiency wash modes, and the automatic load sensors save you water and energy costs.

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

By Brittany Rowland

An affordable top load washing machine with very satisfactory cleaning performance, the Speed Queen doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of a high-end washer but still gets the job done with quick wash cycles. Being able to adjust the water level is an important feature, saving you water costs when you need to wash a smaller load. The build and construction are solid and durable, and the control panel features three simple dials. Overall, for $649, this Speed Queen washing machine fulfills its cleaning functions 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

Prices

By Brittany Rowland

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, such as delay start, automatic dispensers, sanitizing, and a recall last cycle option. We liked having the ability to adjust the soil level of the load to get the most effective cleaning and, as always, it’s useful to be able to throw in a last-minute item of clothing.

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

By Brittany Rowland

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 at the rear are basic and no-fuss. While the machine gets clothes clean of dirt with the flexible agitator, the spin speed maxes at 700 rpm, meaning the clothes may not be fully wrung dry at the cycle’s end. Still, for just $426.60, it’s a relatively quiet, efficient 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

Prices

By Brittany Rowland

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 eliminated and clothes are left smelling fresh and clean. Even cold washes clean well, thanks to the unique combination of washing motions that ensures every clothing article is reached. The extra-large stainless steel tub holds larger loads, meaning you’ll have fewer loads to run overall. For $1,197, this LG model has an attractive modern design and superb cleaning 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

Prices

The Home Depot

By Brittany Rowland

Working very quietly, this Miele front load washing machine has a generous tub capacity and simplified controls that take all the guesswork out for you. The assorted wash cycles automatically adjust the appropriate water level, temperature, and soak and spin speeds for whatever type of load you put in. The design is simple and attractive: A clear round window sits in front while the control panel angles up toward you for easy access. For $1,749, this Miele model cleans clothes efficiently and quietly.

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