Washing Machines: Reviews

The best-rated front loader in the reviews we found is the LG SteamWasher WM3875HWCA, which receives very good to excellent marks in professional tests for cleaning performance, efficiency and gentleness on clothing. This… expand4.2-cubic-foot, Energy Star-rated washer has 14 wash programs, including special settings that use steam for deep cleaning, freshening and allergen removal. Its fast maximum spin speed of 1,400 rpm removes water from clothes effectively. This LG front loader comes in white or gray (as the WM3875HVCA), and it can be stacked with a matching dryer. Owners say they appreciate this washer's cleaning performance, large capacity and quiet operation, and few see any downsides other than its high price tag. LG backs its washer with a one-year warranty that extends to 10 years for the motor. collapse

The Energy Star-rated GE WCVH6800JWW performs better than most front loaders in its price class. This 3.5-cubic-foot washer has 26 wash cycles and five temperature settings, including a sanitize setting. It can stack… expandwith a gas or electric dryer, and it's available in white, red (as the WCVH6800JMV) or silver (as the WCVH6800JMS). Both professional reviewers and owners say this GE washer is highly efficient, with quiet operation and very good washing performance. However, we saw several complaints about mold buildup and odor, which are common problems with front-loading washers. Some users also note that the washer may become unbalanced when heavily loaded, causing it to rock and shake. collapse

Despite the lower overall cleaning scores of top-loading machines, some people still find them easier to use. Among top-loading washers, the LG WT5101HW gets good ratings in expert reviews and from owners. The… expand4.5-cubic-foot washer (one of the largest-capacity washers we found in reviews) doesn't use an agitator; rather it uses a moving disc to push clothes through the water. This Energy-Star washer includes both a sanitary cycle that uses extra-hot water to kill bacteria and a special ColdWash cycle to boost the cleaning performance of cold water. Owners love this washer's large capacity, quiet operation and wide selection of settings. However, we did see some complaints that the washer is rough on clothes, and a few users do not think the hot-water cycle (as opposed to the sanitary cycle) gets hot enough to clean effectively. This washer comes in white or graphite steel (as the LG WT5101HV). collapse