LG SteamWasher WM3875HWCA

The steam-equipped, 4.2-cubic-foot LG SteamWasher WM3875HWCA gets excellent results in both professional tests and user reviews. This front-loading washing machine is more expensive than those without a steam feature, but in general, reviews say that steam does help to power out tough stains better than standard wash cycles. The LG SteamWasher's steam feature can be used in three ways: for deep cleaning, as a quick touch up to remove odor and wrinkles or as part of a special Allergiene cycle that claims to remove 95 percent of common allergens like pet dander. Users praise the SteamWasher's cleaning performance, large capacity and quiet operation, though they are divided over the usefulness of the steam feature. We did not see any complaints about mildew (a common woe of front-loader owners) for this machine, though some users note that preventing it requires some extra maintenance (wiping down the washer's door gasket and leaving the door open). If the SteamWasher's four-figure price tag is too high for your budget, the more basic GE WCVH6800JWW (*Est. $700) offers good performance and efficiency at a lower cost.

The LG SteamWasher WM3875HWCA is included in the thorough tests of front-loading and top-loading washers conducted by ConsumerReports.org. Each machine is rated on its washing performance, water and energy use, noise, vibration and gentleness to fabric. We also found more than 130 reviews for this washer at BestBuy.com, HomeDepot.com and AJMadison.com.