10 Best Washing Machines, According to Our Testing
Whether you're moving into a new home or your washer is starting to show its last signs of life, a top-performing washing machine is an investment that you won’t regret. Not only have the latest generations of washing machines become more efficient, effective, and easy to use, but some are even smarter, taking the guesswork out of how much detergent to use or which wash cycle is best for your load.
To evaluate the best washing machines, our product analysts and cleaning experts at ApplianceRescue assessed everything from cleaning performance to the machine’s gentleness, water and energy usage, specialty cycles, and much more. These are the best washing machines you can buy right now, according to our extensive testing data.
1. Best Overall Front Loader
GE Profile UltraFresh Vent System Plus
Pros
- Has a venting option to prevent musty smells
- Automatically adds the correct amount of detergent
- Door gasket, drawer, hose, and other parts are treated to prevent mold growth
Cons
- Full vent cycle is very long
This machine is designed to eliminate the musty smell of a front-loading washer. It includes a venting option that automatically dries the door seal and the inside of the machine when laundry is done. Additionally, the washer features SmartDispense bulk detergent dispensing, steam cycles, and WiFi connectivity.
2. Best Overall Top Loader
Maytag Smart Capable 5.2-cu ft Agitator Top-Load Washer
Pros
- Energy-saving
- PowerWash cycle for extra dirty loads
Cons
- Some reviewers say it can be hard to reach the bottom
This model combines a center agitator with a large capacity, making it ideal for families. With its deep fill option and PowerWash cycle, it tackles extremely soiled clothes like muddy sports gear, while the RapidWash feature is perfect for when you need clean clothes quickly.
3. Best Value
GE Profile High Efficiency Top-Load Washer
Pros
- Sanitize cycle
- Option to add more water for loads needing a deeper clean
- Dedicated dispenser for detergent packs
Cons
- No steam cycle
This model from GE offers great performance at a reasonable price. It includes a cycle that kills bacteria with an Oxi additive, and it has all the key cycles we look for, such as those for workout wear and bulky items.
4. Best for Pet Owners
Maytag 4.7 cu. ft. Pet Pro Top-Load Washer
Pros
- Safely removes pet hair from textiles
- Can accommodate very large loads
Cons
- Pet Pro cycle is a bit slow
This washer features a Pet Pro cycle, which effectively removes pet hair from fabrics without causing clogs. It is gentle on clothes and works well with big loads, making it perfect for pet owners.
5. Most Innovative
GE Profile 4.8 cu. ft. UltraFast Combo Washer & Dryer
Pros
- Intuitive control panel
- Performed well in cleaning and tangling tests
- Helpful app
Cons
- Expensive
This washer-dryer combo is designed to wash and dry in one machine, completing a load in about two hours. It includes features such as an easy-to-use app, Microban technology, and a sizable load capacity.
6. Longest Warranty
Speed Queen TR7 Heavy Duty Top Load Washer
Pros
- Compact profile
- Comes with a seven-year warranty
- Easily handles standard to large loads
Cons
- Smaller capacity than some others at 3.2 cu. ft
This washer has a compact design perfect for tight spaces and comes with a seven-year warranty, offering long-term peace of mind. It includes eight special cycles and a delay start feature.
7. Best for Large Families
LG Signature 5.8 cu. ft. High Efficiency Steam Cycle Smart Front-Load Washer
Pros
- Can be used with a pedestal washer for even greater capacity
- 14 wash programs
Cons
- Pedestal must be purchased separately
This washer can be paired with a top-load pedestal washer to provide a massive 6.8 cubic feet of capacity. With 14 wash programs and multiple additional features like WiFi connectivity, it’s ideal for large families.
8. Best Smart Washing Machine
Samsung Bespoke 5.3 cu. ft. Ultra-Capacity Smart Front Load Washer
Pros
- Automatically detects soil level and adjusts the wash
- Easy-to-use app
- Can control the dryer from the washer when stacked
Cons
- Select colors currently out of stock
This washer features OptiWash, which automatically adjusts the cycle based on soil levels, and can be controlled via an easy-to-use app. It is also quiet and antimicrobial.
9. Best Stackable Washer and Dryer
LG WashTower Laundry Center
Pros
- Controls for both washer and dryer are in the center for easy access
- Built-in sensors customize cycles
- Can control laundry remotely with the app
- Speedy yet gentle cycles
Cons
- Pricey
- Cannot replace the washer or dryer independently
The LG WashTower is an innovative stackable washer-dryer unit with easy-to-reach controls and AI-powered sensors that customize each cycle.
10. Best Compact
Miele 24 Inch Smart Front Load Washer
Pros
- Saves space
- Automatically dispenses the correct amount of detergent
- Offers many specialty care cycles
Cons
- Cannot handle overly large loads
This compact washer is perfect for small spaces, offering features like automatic detergent dispensing and multiple specialty care cycles.
How We Test Washing Machines
At ApplianceRescue, we've been testing washing machines for over 100 years. We test based on industry standards developed by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), including measuring cleaning performance, gentleness, energy efficiency, and cycle options.
What to Look for When Shopping for a Washing Machine
Here are some important aspects to consider:
- Capacity: For larger families or bulkier items, choose a machine with a higher capacity.
- Smart Features: Some machines include apps for remote control, cycle scheduling, and more.
- Detergent Dispensing: Bulk detergent dispensers and detergent pack dispensers can be convenient.
- Cycles: Choose machines with cycles that suit your laundry needs, including sanitizing and steam cycles.