Best Washing Machine Buying Guide
New innovations of the best washing machines make them so much more than a one-size-fits-all laundry solution. With a variety of sizes, designs, and specialized features, a washing machine is an investment in your home and lifestyle.
In this guide, we help you figure out which washing machine is best for your needs and what factors you may need to take into consideration before making a purchase.
Types of Washing Machines
One of the biggest factors to consider when choosing a washing machine is the design of your laundry area and how the washing machine will be positioned. To optimize this space, consider which of the following 3 washing machine types will be most suitable.
Top-loader
A top-loader washing machine is solid around the sides with a door on the top. Laundry is loaded from the top of the washer into a round drum. Some have a central pillar that moves the water and clothes. Other machines use a rotating plate at the bottom. The latter is preferable since it results in less wear and tear on clothing. The benefit of a top-loader is that you can add items to the machine during the wash cycle. Opening the top door during a wash cycle will pause the function. Once the door is closed, the machine will resume washing.
Since the machine door is on the top, this type of unit will not be suitable to store under a counter. The design is not stackable, so you will need to make sure it is easily accessible from above.
Front-loader
A front-loader washing machine has a door in the front of the machine, opening into a round drum. These machines generally use less water and electricity than top-loaders. The door of the machine needs to stay locked during the entire wash cycle. This means you cannot open the machine once you have started washing until the entire wash and spin process is complete.
Most front-loaders are stackable which makes them a good option if you have limited space, need to store the machine under a counter, or in a closet.
Combination Washing Machines
Combination washer-dryer machines are ideal for those with limited space who require a tumble dryer as well as a washing machine. These machines are a great solution when there is no outdoor area to hang clothing, or the climate is not conducive to outdoor hang-drying of wet items.
The downside of these washing machines is that they take a long time to dry clothes. Since the wash and dry functions take place in the same drum their complex systems make them somewhat less durable than separate stand-alone washers and dryers.
How to Choose the Best Washing Machine for You
Once you have considered the type of machine that is most suitable for the available space in your home, you also need to consider the exterior size of the unit, the connections, and the outlets required.
Washing Machine Size
If the washing machine is going to be stored under a counter or in a closet, make sure the dimensions of the machine are suitable for the available space. It is best to measure the machine and compare it to the area measurements before making the purchase.
Always check that the machines are listed as stackable if this is a feature you require.
Power Connections and Water Outlets
Regardless of the type of washing machine you buy, you will require a power connection, a cold-water connection, and a drain. Make sure that the area where your machine will be placed has adequate access to all 3 of these components.
What Features to Look for in a Washing Machine
When looking into the finer details of the best washing machine that will suit your needs consider the type of items you generally wash, the quantity, and any required special features for allergies or noise control.
Capacity
Washing machine capacity can vary greatly from 2.5 up to 6 cubic feet. If you have a large family, or regularly wash bulky items like blankets, a high-capacity washer with a bigger drum-size is best. Top-loader drums usually allow for a larger load than front-loaders. You should, however, check this on the specific model. Keep in mind that this will affect the space required in your laundry area.
Cycle options
High-end machines have more cycle options to customize the type of wash to laundry items. All machines generally include cycles for whites, wool, and speed washing. Additional cycles may include heavy-duty, allergen, sanitizing, and self-clean for machine maintenance.
Bulk dispensers
Bulk dispensers are mostly found in high-capacity washers. They allow you to fill the detergent dispenser once for 20 to 40 loads. When the washing cycle starts, the machine will read your load and dispense the correct amount of detergent according to the load size.
Advanced wrinkle care
Wrinkle care technology tumbles clothes in a washer. It uses steam and a tumbling motion to prevent wrinkles. With this feature, you would need to be comfortable with your machine remaining on for a few hours or while you are away.
Vibration reduction
Vibration reduction keeps the washing machine from shaking excessively and creating noise during the spin cycles.
Allergen cycle
Allergen cycles are designed to target pollen and dust triggers and gently release them from fabrics using steam. This is ideal if you live in a high pollen count area or suffer from asthma.
Wi-Fi connection and App control
Washing machines that are linked with Wi-Fi enable you to track the cycle progress and control it from your mobile device. Some appliances can diagnose problems and alert the manufacturer's service center.
Washing Machine FAQ
Q: When should you replace a washing machine?
A: Washing machines have a general lifespan of around 10 years. Most manufacturers, however, only offer a one-year warranty. If your washing machine breaks and the repair cost is over 50% of the cost of a new machine, opt for a new model. Breakdowns that are not always worth the cost of fixing include failure to spin, a cracked drum, or leakages not caused by replaceable pipes.
Q: Should you purchase an extended warranty on a washing machine?
A: The cost of an extended warranty is most likely an expense you did not budget for when considering your purchase. On average, washing machine repairs throughout their recommended lifespan will not be more than the extended warranty expense. If you are concerned about unforeseen expenses, including the appliances under your household insurance may be a better option.
Q: Are newer, high-end washer models worth the extra cost?
A: This will depend on your needs. For a single person or couple with small loads of regular laundry items, it might not be worth the extra expense to get a fancy machine. Having said that, advantages to investing in a high-end model can include reduced energy and water use which makes it less expensive to operate. It will also be more environmentally friendly. Higher-end models have a plethora of specialized features which you will probably only use if you are washing specialized delicate fabrics or have certain health or capacity requirements.