LG WM2455HW

April 2009. Compared to many LG front-loading washing machines, the LG WM2455HW is a relatively basic model that doesn't include steam washing or an allergen-reduction cycle, but it does cost about $400. The LG washer has an extra-large 4.2-cubic-foot capacity, a stylish look, and a sanitize cycle; it's also more efficient than most. We didn't find any professional reviews for this washer, but most owners say it cleans well, is very quiet and does a good job removing water from clothes. As with most front-loading washers, we saw a variety of complaints about reliability and a few owners say the LG WM2455HW washer fails to get very dirty items (like cloth diapers) clean. We also read reports of mold growth and odor in this washing machine, which seem to be particularly common problems in LG front-loading washers. If you want a more feature-rich front-loading washing machine, consider the Samsung WF448AAW (*est. $1,400), a model for which we read very few complaints.

Although the LG WM2455HW isn't included in professional tests, we found more than 150 owner reviews for this front-loading washer at Sears.com, BestBuy.com and Epinions.com. LG washing machines are also the highest-ranked in the 2008 J.D. Power and Associates customer satisfaction survey.