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10 Easy Pieces: Front-Loading Washing Machines

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10 Easy Pieces: Front-Loading Washing Machines

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10 Easy Pieces: Front-Loading Washing Machines

by Published: September 20, 2023

When it comes to washing machines, are we biased? Yes. In our opinion, front-loading washers are it.

In the years since we last reported on front-loading washers, manufacturers have tackled the one big issue that plagued the machines: mold and mildew from standing water. They took the issue head on and created anti-bacterial surfaces, improved water drainage, and developed automatic door-propping devices. With that issue fixed and entry-level pricing at more affordable levels, what is there not to like about front-loading washing machines? They offer superior cleaning with far less water than the best top-loaders. They accommodate larger loads and achieve better moisture extraction in the spin cycle, which means shorter (and less costly) drying times. And they can either be put side-by-side or stacked with a dryer to save space.

(OK, we admit it, there is one downside: having to stoop down to access the machine. An accessory worth considering is a laundry pedestal with a drawer that raises your washer off of the floor to eliminate stooping and provide storage space for detergents or other laundry tools.)

We’ve researched the current market offerings of primarily full-sized (typically 27 inches wide) washers and used reviews, personal experience, and consults with appliance repair and sales experts to narrow our picks. All the offerings are Energy Star certified, have stainless steel drums, glass doors, and can be installed side-by-side or stacked for flexibility. Here are our 10 picks.

N.B.: Have a front-loading washer you love? Share your experience in the comments below.

lg front loading machines have the best repair record on the market. the lg fro 17
Above: LG front-loading machines have the best repair record on the market. The LG Front Load Smart Washer (WM6700HBA) offers a 5.0-cubic-foot capacity stainless steel drum, 25 wash cycles, and a steam option. We like LG’s door plunger feature that secures the door in a slightly open position when not in use to allow the interior to dry and stay mold and mildew free. The machine is $1,195 at AJ Madison.
the entry level lg front load washer (wm3400cw) has a slightly smaller drum (4. 18
Above: The entry-level LG Front Load Washer (WM3400CW) has a slightly smaller drum (4.5 cubic feet) and eight wash cycles; $745 at AJ Madison.
what do you get with the top of the line lg washer? the lg turbowash series \29 19
Above: What do you get with the top-of-the-line LG washer? The LG Turbowash Series 29-Inch Smart Front Load Washer (WM8900HBA) has a 5.2-cubic-foot capacity drum (to get that capacity, the washer measures 29 inches, 2 inches wider than the standard washer size). It offers 12 wash programs, a TubroWash feature, a fabric sensor sensing the volume and weight of each unique laundry load, steam options, and the ability to control your washer from your smart phone. The washer is $1,195 at AJ Madison.
the samsung bespoke \27 inch front load smart washer (wf46bb6700ad) has 4.6 cub 20
Above: The Samsung Bespoke 27 Inch Front Load Smart Washer (WF46BB6700AD) has 4.6 cubit feet capacity, 24 wash cycles, steam capability, and antimicrobial technology; $1,165 at Appliances Connection.
manufactured in ohio by whirlpool, the maytag \27 inch front load smart washer  21
Above: Manufactured in Ohio by Whirlpool, the Maytag 27 Inch Front Load Smart Washer (MHW8630HW) has a 4.5-cubic-foot capacity, cold or hot water stain removal capability, a steam option, and wrinkle control features; $749 at Maytag. Looking to buy “local”? See our round-up of 13 American-Made Appliances, from Countertop Mixers to Ranges to Refrigerators.
julie&#8\2\17;s choice for her brooklyn heights remodel, the bosch 300 seri 22
Above: Julie’s choice for her Brooklyn Heights remodel, the Bosch 300 Series 24 Inch Front Load Washer (WAT28400UC) is 3 inches smaller than the average washer size with 15 wash cycles and a smaller drum (only a 2.2 cubic foot capacity) but can wash up to 16 towels at once; $1,149 at Amazon.
another compact model, the miele \24 inch front load washer (wxr860wcs) has \25 23
Above: Another compact model, the Miele 24 Inch Front Load Washer (WXR860WCS) has 25 wash cycles, a smaller 2.6 cubic foot drum, and steam options; $2,449 at AJ Madison.
the american made whirlpool front load smart washer (wfw96\20hc) has a large 5. 24
Above: The American-made Whirlpool Front Load Smart Washer (WFW9620HC) has a large 5.0 cubic foot drum capacity, automatic detergent dispenser up to 40 loads, smart appliance features, and 35 wash cycles at Whirlpool.
the ge ultrafresh vent system front load washer (gfw550ssnww) includes a 4.8 cu 25
Above: The GE UltraFresh Vent System Front Load Washer (GFW550SSNWW) includes a 4.8 cubic foot drum, built-in wifi, antimicrobal technology, and 10 wash cycles; $888 at Lowes.
the electrolux smartboost front load washer (elfw7637aw) has an ultra efficient 26
Above: The Electrolux SmartBoost Front Load Washer (ELFW7637AW) has an ultra-efficient stain-removing feature, and optic whitening cycle, and an allergen-removal cycle; $998 at Lowes.

For more washing machine and laundry room tips, see our posts:

N.B.: This post was originally published on September 11, 2013. We have updated it with new and additional product selections and current pricing.

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Frequently asked questions

Front-loading washing machines are known for their energy efficiency, water savings, and gentle cleaning. They use less water and detergent compared to top-loading machines, and their tumbling action is ideal for cleaning delicate fabrics.

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