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The best washers make laundry day less daunting. Yet, how would you know which one to get with the various types of washing machines?
First, the machine must wash laundry effectively, producing clean clothes and easy stain removal. In addition, it should be energy-efficient, saving as much water as possible since it helps the environment and reduces monthly utility bills. Plus, you must consider the design and the overall ease of use.
With these factors in mind, you need a washer that best suits your needs. Other homeowners will consider the extra features that new washing machines have nowadays, such as Wi-Fi connectivity. This spec allows you to control and monitor your washer from your smartphone. Moreover, washers have a sanitization setting, which is also essential.
So to prevent you from feeling overwhelmed, here’s a roundup of the best washers that give you an optimal cleaning experience.
The Best Washers to Fit Every Budget
1. Samsung 4.5 Cu. Ft. High-Efficiency Stackable Front-Load Washer
The Samsung WF45T6000AW will be the best overall choice if you prefer a front-load washer. This machine has stacks of numerous features. First, it’s the standard size with a 4.5 cubic-foot drum. It also comes with ten washing cycles and five temperature settings. So whether you like washing your clothes on cold and gentle or hot and powerful, you have plenty of options.
Another feature you might love is the self-clean cycle — ensuring the machine is sanitary. Front-load models easily build up bacteria and mildew around the rubber seal. This feature is essential, but you can also open the door so it dries after each cycle.
One thing consumers love about this machine is the vibration reduction technology. It’s quiet enough so the sound of operation won’t bother you while you’re in the other room. One thing to bear in mind is the appliance will have a learning curve during use. You may want to refer to the user manual to learn how each cycle works.
2. Electrolux 4.5 Cu.Ft. Stackable Front Load Washer with Steam and LuxCare Plus Wash System
The Electrolux ELFW7537AT washer is a popular choice among consumers with an average 4.7-star rating. This appliance stands out overall because of how functional and versatile it can be. Reviewers find it worth the price as it comes with numerous features. One of the aspects includes the space it has to easily fit larger items, such as lavish rugs and duvet covers. You might find large loads are more difficult to work if you have a top load.
Another feature many love is its Adaptive Dispenser, which accepts wash pods for every cycle. Additionally, the Perfect Steam is great for sanitizing clothes and lifting stains without prewashing treatment. For tougher stains, the Solid Soil level will provide a deep clean to remove messes left on clothing.
The machine itself is energy-star certified, so it helps you save on energy and water — and it’s eco-friendly. Plus, the wash cycles are peaceful and have an LED display for washing in a dark room.
One thing reviewers complain about is the long wash cycle. The cycles are complete after 90 minutes. However, it has a quick wash cycle that completes within 15 minutes. This washer’s price might be hefty, but the benefits entirely outweigh the cost.
3. 5.2 Cu. Ft. Large Capacity Smart Top Load Washer with Super-Speed Wash
After reviewing the features of this appliance, there is little to complain about the Samsung WA52A5500AC/US. This model is a top-load washer loaded with lots of features. So, what’s not to love? The washer comes with various settings, including twelve wash cycles, five temperature settings, five spin speeds and five rinse options.
Moreover, you can use the SmartThings app to download even more cycle settings if the ones you currently use aren’t enough. While using the app, you can control and monitor your washer. So, if you’re out, you can stop the cycle or continue whenever convenient.
In addition to the smart controls, you also get a large capacity. The drum is 5.2-cubic-feet which easily suits a large family. Although, you’ll have to pay mind to how far you have to reach to grab clothes at the bottom.
4. Amana 3.5-cu ft Agitator Top-Load Washer
If you’re penny-pinching to decorate your home and need a new washer like yesterday, the Amana NTW4516FW will not disappoint. Although it’s on the smaller side, a 3.5-cubic-foot tub, it operates fairly well.
One disadvantage to this appliance is the material. Some reviewers complain about how the porcelain enamel chips and snags clothes.
However, the swift control knobs enable you to switch between the eight cycles easily. Plus, it has five water temperature settings. Among these options, the Amana washer has a deep-fill control to ensure your clothing is thoroughly saturated.
Moreover, it has an auto-clean cycle, so your washer always smells freshly clean. One thing to keep in mind is the spin cycle’s speed. The highest spin speed is 700 RPM — so if you washed an item like a thick duvet, it could be dripping wet after the spin cycle is complete.
Otherwise, this washer is simple, doesn’t give you technology troubles and perfectly fits a smaller budget.
5. Maytag 4.8 Cu. Ft. High-Efficiency Stackable Front Load Washer with Steam
The best washers are stackable when paired with a compatible dryer since they save space. Customers love the Maytag MHW6630HW because it pairs nicely with a matching dryer and it’s super quiet. It won’t disturb you while you’re in the next room.
In addition, this machine has 12 wash cycles, a 4.8-cubic-foot drum and a Fresh Hold option. Many are raving about how spacious this front loader is compared to other brands on the market. The Fresh Hold setting is great for keeping clothes smelling clean during your busy schedule. It tumbles your items after the cycle is complete. That way, they’re not sitting there, developing an odor.
Unfortunately, this model isn’t energy-efficient certified and the normal cycles take longer to complete. However, it does have a 15-minute quick wash cycle if you’re in a hurry, among many other bells and whistles.
When to Replace Your Washer
On average, washer life expectancies last around 14 years, depending on how many loads you usually complete in a week. If your washer is more than 10 years old, it is time to replace your old washer.
Another aspect to look at is the cost of repair. If it’s 50% or higher than the price of a new washer, it’s most likely worth it to replace than repair. So if you need to replace a new part like a belt or seal, you can replace those relatively inexpensively. However, it isn’t worth fixing if your washer fails to spin, leaks or cracks.
Many of the latest models have advantages when investing in a new one. Most washers are Energy Star Certified, using less energy and water. In addition to saving energy, even the most basic washers have added features that make your laundry day convenient.
Look Out for the Next Best Washer
Knowing which washer is right for you can be overwhelming with the various washers out there and loads of features. Consider your budget first. Then think about the frequency of cycles you complete each week. For instance, if you have a large family, consider a washer with a higher capacity.
The best washer should be an investment that matches your needs and makes a huge difference in simplifying your life.