Doing the laundry is one of the least popular household chores but washing machine manufacturers are constantly introducing new technology to make it easier and with better results. If it has been a while since you’ve had to shop for a new washing machine, you might be surprised at the variety of styles and options available at your local appliance store. This washing machine buying guide is going to help you figure out what options you want, what you need and what it is going to cost you.
The Basics
Let’s start with the washing machine basics. All home washing machines work on the same principle—load clothing in, add detergent and the machine adds water. The clothes are then agitated for a period of time, the dirty water removed and fresh water added to rinse. Then the rinse water is extracted.
To accomplish this, a washing machine needs access to hot and cold water, drainage to the sewer system or septic system, and electricity. The accompanying dryer will also need access to electricity (high voltage if an electric heating element) and access to the natural gas line (if a gas heater unit). The dryer will also need a vent to allow the hot, moist exhaust to escape. With this in mind, most homes have a specific area or room that has been equipped with the necessary utilities.
Before you go to the store, you need to take measurements of the space you have for a washing machine. A standard-capacity, the top load washing machine is usually about 27” wide and anywhere from 23” to 33” deep. Other styles of washers (i.e. high-capacity, front load, and high-efficiency) could be different. Not taking this into consideration can cause you unnecessary frustration.
Capacity
The next thing that most people consider when purchasing a washing machine is capacity. This is in very simple terms, how many items the machine can handle at one time. Larger capacity machines can help you save money on utilities by lowering the number of loads you have to do to finish your laundry, but standard capacity machines are typically less expensive to purchase.
Larger capacity machines can have a larger footprint than standard capacity machines, so it is important to make sure your space can accommodate the larger dimensions.
Compact washers and stackable washers, anywhere from 1.5-2.5 cubic feet-capacity, can generally wash six thick, bath-size towels at a time. This is a reasonable size for an apartment—especially if you live alone or only have two people in your family, but can be impractical if your laundry needs are more complex.
A standard washer, 2.5 to 4 cubic feet capacity, will typically handle ten to twelve thick, bath-size towels at a time. For a family of four, this is a decent size. But, if you have an active family or small children and you find yourself doing laundry frequently, you may want to consider a high capacity unit. Anything over 4 cubic feet of capacity is considered high capacity and there are some home units that go as high as 6.3 cubic feet capacity. Anything bigger than that is usually a commercial washer.
While it might be very tempting to purchase a high capacity unit, do keep in mind that your dryer has to be able to handle the same capacity. Obviously, if you are purchasing both a washer and a dryer, it pays to buy matching sets because the capacities are matched. But, if you are only buying a washer, upgrading your capacity can be problematic if your dryer cannot handle the load. Breaking up washer loads so that the dryer can efficiently do its job will double your work and add to your utility cost.
Top-load versus Front-load
There are two options for where you put the clothes into the washing machine, and consequently two basic modes of operation.
The old, reliable style of the washing machine is the top-load, while the front load format has become quite popular in recent years. Let’s look at both and understand what makes them different.
Top-load
The tried and true top-load washing machine has a tub and an agitator in the center of the tub. The top opens to load and unload and the controls sit on top, behind the door to the tub. Generally, these machines have good reliability. They do a good job of cleaning everyday stains but are typically noisy when operating.
Top-load machines are the least expensive models available. If you choose a standard efficiency model, you’ll find the controls are typically quite basic. You’ll be able to control the wash temperature, speed, and length of the cycle. In the most basic unit, you will be responsible for selecting the load size, to help manage the use of water.
Top-load machines are usually harder on your clothes. The deep tub and agitator style of cleaning can pull and twist clothing as they swim through the tub and generally lead to clothing lasting a shorter amount of time than clothes washed in a front-loading unit. Top-loaders use more water than similar capacity front loaders and do not extract as much water during the spin cycle. That means that your dryer will have to work harder to get the job done.
There are high-efficiency, top-load machines available and they do use less water. There are also many machines now available with special features and unique options. But, as with anything—the more features and options, the higher the price.
Finally, top-loads can be problematic for short people. The bottom of the tub is generally about 5” off the ground. If the machine sits 30” high, you’re going to have to be able to reach down 25” over the lip of the machine to reach items at the bottom of the machine.
Related: Best Top-load Washers
Front-load
Front-loaders have gotten very popular for a number of reasons. First and foremost, they are very efficient. They use substantially less water to wash the same amount of clothes. They actually do a better job of cleaning the clothes than a top-load washer yet does less damage to the clothing.
A front-load washer opens in the front of the machine and has the controls above the opening on the front of the machine, as well. There is a ventilated drum (sometimes with fins or paddles) and no agitator. Instead of filling the tub with water, so the clothing can move around, like the top-load models, the drum only fills a fraction of the drum—typically less than half-way. The drum tumbles the clothing through the water and detergent, then spins at a very high speed to extract the water. The rinse cycle is similarly low-water and highly efficient.
Front-load machines are typically 50% or more expensive than a similarly sized top-load washer. The height on front-loaders can be a little bit taller, sometimes as much as 10”-12” over a top-load washer.
Front-load washers are where the manufacturers are focusing the majority of their attention. This is not necessarily a bad thing, their efficiency is superior, their wash capabilities are superior and they can be gentler on your clothes. But they are more complex and that can mean more expensive to repair. Also, because the door has to lock when in operation so that the water cannot accidentally escape if the unit does experience a problem, you may end up with a mess to clean up.
Front-loader models typically have a door that opens to the side. Be sure you choose a model that opens to the side opposite the dryer or has a door that can be switched to the opposite side by the store’s installation team. A door that opens on the same side as your dryer creates an obstacle when transferring wet clothes from the washer to the dryer. When purchasing a matching set, know which side the vent for the dryer and the water and drain are located so you can order the proper alignment for your home. Many manufacturers offer “reversible” doors to make it easy to properly align your machines.
Stackable Units
If you are limited in your space, you might want to consider a stackable washing machine. Typically, stackable units are limited in their capacity. It may be difficult to find capacities of 4 cubic feet or greater. There are two types of stackables available and the costs differences can be great.
The traditional stacking pair is a top-load washer on the bottom and the dryer attached above. In this configuration, you must buy the pair as an integrated unit because the dryer is only mounted in the back of the unit. This allows for obstruction-free access to the top-load washer. Because the pairs are sold as integrated units, the capacities are complementary, as are the amenities.
Many front-load washing machines are stackable with dryers from the same manufacturer. It is not advisable to “mix and match” brands for the purpose of stacking, as the load-bearing points may not align.
While stackable units can save space, you’ll want to also make sure they meet your physical capabilities. The washer is always the bottom unit, so you will have to lift wet clothes to move them to the dryer. Just something to consider before you buy.
High-efficiency Models
Everyone is thinking about the environment and how we can make a positive impact. Purchasing a high-efficiency washing machine can be a great way to benefit your pocket while protecting the earth. High-efficiency washers can use as much as 80% less water and save you 65% on your energy bill. They are typically larger capacity, so they can clean more clothes in fewer loads. High-efficiency washers operate more quietly than traditional models. They are self-balancing and can prevent the thumping and vibration of unevenly distributed loads.
High-efficiency (H-e) washers are available in both top-load and front-load models. They do utilize intricate sensors and computers that constantly monitor the operation of the washer. H-e washers can usually self-sensor water levels and load types. It is important to note that H-e washers require detergent specially designed to work in these machines.
The low-levels of water used means that regular detergent may not completely rinse out in high-efficiency machines. If not fully rinsed out, residual detergent can actually cause clothes to look dirty or damage the clothes. That means that using the wrong detergent can mean having to run additional rinse cycles to get clothes fully cleaned.
There is typically little difference in the cost of H-e compatible detergent and regular detergent, so don’t let the requirement scare you off. Your favorite brands are probably available at your local store in high-efficiency varieties.
Compact Washers
Finally, let us consider the compact washing machines. For some, this can be the only option. When limited to a compact unit, it is important to make sure you find the one with the most capacity possible. Go for capacity over amenities in the compact machines.
The smaller the load capability, the more loads of laundry you will end up doing. If you have to give up a few bells and whistles on a compact washer to get even cubic foot more capacity, you can fit two or three more items in each load.
Brands
Today’s appliance stores offer the widest selection of brands ever available. There are the traditional, domestic brands, now joined by a world of others. Do your homework before purchasing. There are a great number of sources online that provide reviews, including your favorite appliance store. Be sure to check into the reliability and operation of any brand you are considering.
You may have to pay more for well-established, familiar brands, but there are usually better warranties with these units. Also, some larger chains offer house brands. These are typically manufactured by well-respected companies and simply carry the store’s nameplate. A quick look into the information online can clear up any brand confusion you may have.
Purchasing a washer can seem a daunting task. With so many options, styles and brands, it can be difficult to even know where to start. Paying attention to the physical space you have to work with will dictate where your options begin. Knowing what your lifestyle requires can help you choose a washing machine that will best fit your needs.
Conclusion
And while washing machines have always been about the convenience of doing your laundry at home, manufacturers have gone away from traditional, white enamel finishes to a rainbow array of bold colors and design elements to help make their machines more stylish.
Now, more than ever before, a washing machine can be a beautiful, functional addition to any home.