Best front load washers 2024: for pristine clothes every cycle, chosen by experts

These are the best front load washers you can buy in every category, from brands like Samsung, Electrolux, and LG.

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Starting the washing machine

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The best front-load washers are a great option for those looking to save energy and space. They can be stacked on top of a dryer, making them ideal for apartments or small spaces. Choosing the best washing machine with an Energy Star certification can lead to long-term savings on energy bills.

A washer with a large capacity of over five cubic feet is a good choice for large families, and there are models with over eight cycles that offer different ways to remove stains, dirt, and grime - useful for people who play sports, spend time outdoors, or cook frequently.

The price of front-load washers varies from $700 to $2000, depending on their capacity, features, and cycle types. The best models often have smart features, such as AI-powered settings prediction or remote cycle scheduling. Steam settings are also gentle on stains.

Keep reading to see our top picks and head to our best top load washers guide for their counterparts.

The quick list

Below, we’ve provided an overview of the important details you need to know about each product immediately so you can buy quickly if you're in a hurry. If something catches your eye, use the links to delve deeper into the analysis provided for each product further down the page.

WF42H5000AW

1. Samsung WF42H5000AW

The best front-load washer overall

For a low-cost washer with a large capacity, look no further than the Samsung WF42H5000AW. It comes with a spacious drum, a family-friendly child lock, and an Energy Star certification to keep down running costs.

Electrolux ELFW7637AW

Best for ease of use

2. Electrolux ELFW7637AW

The best for ease of use

With a steam setting, a 4.5 cubic foot capacity, and an easy-to-use dial and touchscreen, the Electrolux ELFW7637AW may be worth paying a little more, especially if you want a washer that can handle tough stains.

LG WM9000HVA

3. LG WM9000HVA

The best premium front-load washer

The LG WM9000HVA is a premium front-load washer with many features to appreciate, from a steam setting to an app that allows you to check the progress of your laundry cycle from friends' or family's houses.

GE GFW550SSNWW review

4. GE GFW550SSNWW

The best for quiet cycles

Thanks to its balancing technology, the GE GFW550SSNWW produces clean clothes quickly and quietly. This washer also has smart features, an Energy Star certification, and a fast 20-minute cycle for when you’re short on time.

Samsung WF53BB8700AV

5. Samsung WF53BB8700AV

The best smart front-load washer

For smart tech you can depend upon, the Samsung WF53BB8700AV delivers. It offers a massive 6.1 cubic feet capacity, AI smart dial, app, Wi-Fi compatibility, and 24 different cycles.

Electrolux EFLW317TIW

Best for regular use

6. Electrolux EFLW317TIW

The best for regular laundry needs

The Electrolux EFLW317TIW is incredibly simple to operate. With just a few basic but effective cycles, it will quickly become a quiet and reliable sidekick for all of your regular laundry needs.

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LG WM9500HKA

Best large capacity

7. LG WM9500HKA

The best large-capacity front-load washer

With an Energy Star certification, a 5.8 cubic feet capacity, and smart features, the LG WM9500HKA is incredibly good at dealing with the needs of large families or shared houses.

The best front load washers we recommend in 2024

Why you can trust Top Ten Reviews

Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Top Ten Reviews is on a mission to review everything we feature in our buyer's guides. Still, while we work hard to make this a reality—or where this isn't possible—some of our guides still feature rankings based on our team's considerable expertise and research.

While we haven't been able to test any of the units in this guide in person, we've instead honed in on top-rated brands and used our knowledge of the best features to help you make the right decision for your home, all for the best price.

The best front load washer overall

Samsung WF42H5000AW Front Load Washer Review

1. Samsung WF42H5000AW

The Samsung WF42H5000AW is the best frond load washer overall for an affordable machine with a decent capacity

Our expert review:

Specifications

Size: 38 3/4(h) x 27(w) x 33(d) inches Capacity: 4.2 cu. ft. No. of programs: 9 Warranty: 10 year (motor) 3 year (tub) 1 year (parts and labor) Today's Best Deals

Reasons to buy

Affordable Decent capacity for families App compatibility

Reasons to avoid

Missing a steam function Fewer cycles than other models

✅ You like minimal noise: The washer’s VRT technology helps to balance the drum and reduce the noise made by vibrations when the drum is cycling at high speeds, which is great if you prefer a peaceful home.
✅ You’re a family: The Samsung WF42H5000AW has a family-friendly design that includes a child lock and a spacious drum that can fit the average family laundry load.
✅ You want to keep costs low: An Energy Star certification helps to keep your energy and water bills down for months and years into the future.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want a steam setting: Steam settings can help to lift tough stains from your clothes, but unfortunately, the Samsung WF42H5000AW doesn’t provide this option.
❌ You want something groundbreaking: If you've heard of groundbreaking smart features like AI being able to predict your cycles and settings, you should know that you won't find that here.
❌ You want to set cycles remotely: Although the washer's compatible app can diagnose potential errors or repairs, this model does not offer the chance to control settings remotely.

The bottom line

🔎 The Samsung WF42H5000AW is a great companion for most laundry days, as it has all of your essential cycles, Self Clean+ technology, and app diagnostics for a low cost. That’s before you even consider its good capacity of 4.2 cubic feet, which should provide plenty of space for the average family load ★★★★½

You can depend on the Samsung WF42H5000AW for a washer, which is a front-runner. It is one of the best picks for affordability, as it is one of the least expensive washers we reviewed. It has Self Clean+ technology, nine basic but effective programs, app compatibility, and a large capacity of 4.2 cubic feet. That's plenty of space to fit a king-size comforter or a family laundry load.

Design: The Samsung WF42H5000AW is very family-friendly, featuring a child lock and Self Clean+ technology, which helps prevent dirt from accumulating. The washer notifies you every 40 cycles when it needs cleaning, helping keep your washer fresh even when you’re busy with chores or childcare. VRT technology also reduces vibrations by balancing the drum at high speeds, so it runs quietly if you have napping children or work calls to take.

With its eight wash cycles, four spin speeds, and four temperature settings, the washer engages plenty of methods of attacking dirt and grime. Sadly, it lacks a steam function, which is reasonable given the affordability of this option but something to keep in mind if you rely on steam power to lift heavier stains.

The design isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s neat, tidy, and easy to use. It’s also stackable, which is great if you live in a small space. Another key benefit is that the machine’s Smart Care technology will flag potential repairs or errors in the compatible app.

Performance: On Home Depot’s website, the washer has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. Users praise how clean their clothes come out and the powerful spin, making their clothes feel drier. However, no light inside the drum makes it hard to spot stray socks.

Value: The Samsung WF42H5000AW retails for around $700, which is a great price for this sort of capacity. It's also Energy Star certified, saving you further money on energy bills; its impressive estimated annual running cost is $7. However, it lacks smart features, so if that’s what you’re after, you can check out models like the LG WM9000HVA instead.

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The best front load washer for ease of use

Best front load washers: Electrolux ELFW7637AW

2. Electrolux ELFW7637AW

This is the best front load washer for ease of use if you want fuss-free laundry days

Our expert review:

Specifications

Size: 38 (H) x 27 (W) x 32 (D) inches Capacity: 4.5 cu. ft No. of programs: 10 Warranty: 10-year Motor Warranty plus Lifetime Tub Warranty Today's Best Deals

Reasons to buy

Steam function Large capacity

Reasons to avoid

Missing smart features The inside of the drum is slightly rough

✅ You prioritize ease of use: With an interior light and a dial and touchscreen to select between cycles and settings, this washer model is quick and easy to operate without studying the manual.
✅ You easily stain your clothes: While gentle, the machine can also efficiently deal with dirt and stains thanks to its steam setting and 11-cycle options.
✅ You find washing whites tricky: This model has a targeted Optic White cycle designed to keep your white clothes bright and free from dirt or stains.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You’re looking for smart features: If smart features are essential for an efficient laundry day, you’ll want to pass on this model and look for a different, higher-end washer.
❌ You’re on a $1000 budget: The Electrolux ELFW7637AW costs around $1500, although if you're able to find a sale, you might find it listed for a price more within budget.
❌ You wash lots of kids-sized clothes: Some users complained that their children’s clothes and socks got caught in the rubber gasket of the machine.

The bottom line

🔎 The Electrolux ELFW7637AW is one of the most user-friendly front load washers, with a simple dial and touch screen to choose between 11 cycles and a steam function and sanitize setting. The only thing is, it lacks smart features ★★★★½

Whether you find the best tech confusing or you're simply keen to accelerate the speed at which you get laundry done, Electrolux ELFW7637AW will help you along. It may not have the largest capacity out of all of the washers in our line-up, but it's easy to use.

Design: The Electrolux ELFW7637AW is fairly roomy, with 4.5 cubic feet of space to work with. It’s also stackable, Energy Star Certified, and comes in two colors (Titanium and White). If you need to save space, the reversible door hinge can be set to open to the left or the right.

More brownie points should be awarded to the washer for its wide variety of cycles and settings. Adjust the dial to choose one of 11 cycles before moving to the touchscreen for options like allergen mode, delay, or steam. The Optic White cycle can keep whites bright, while the steam function gently lifts dirt from fabrics. The Sanitize setting claims to remove up to 99% of bacteria. Plus, dispensers for bleach and PODs are another nice (and rare) feature to have if you want more cleaning options.

Performance: You can’t control the machine via a smartphone like other models in this line-up. However, there's a very helpful interior light so that you can spot any garments left behind. Users give the Electrolux Electrolux ELFW7637AW an average score of 4.8 out of 5 on the Home Depot website. They praised the design of the washer and how good it looks in their laundry room, but several reviewers were disappointed that their children’s clothes and socks got stuck in the rubber gasket of the machine.

Value: The Electrolux ELFW7637AW is a tall order, with the titanium model available for $1,549 and the white version for $100 less. Its high-end features, steam setting, and good capacity are convincing factors. A 10-year motor warranty and a lifetime warranty on the tub are bonuses.

The best premium front load washer

Best front load washers: LG WM9000HVA Top Load Washer Review

3. LG WM9000HVA

The LG WM9000HVA is the best premium front load washer for top-notch smart features and cycles

Our expert review:

Specifications

Size: 40 3/4(h) x 29(w) x 33 3/4(d) inches Capacity: 5.2 cu. ft. No. of programs: 14 Warranty: 10 year (motor) 3 year (tub) 1 year (parts and labor) Today's Best Deals

Reasons to buy

Energy efficient App compatibility

Reasons to avoid

✅ You want the ultimate control: Compatible with an app, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant, you can bark orders at this washer without lifting a finger.
✅ You want the best features: The LG WM9000HVA is packed with features considered to be the best in the business, including a steam setting that can tackle tough stains gently.
✅ Energy efficiency is important to you: This model has twice won awards with Energy Star for its innovation and efficiency, making it a good option to save money on future bills.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You’re on a budget: With premium features and a huge capacity, this is not a washer that comes cheap. You’ll need to be willing to part with over $1500.
❌ You live alone: If you live alone or as a couple, you may find that the LG model’s 5.2 cubic feet capacity offers far too much space for your usual load size.
❌ You use basic cycles: If you’re accustomed to using only basic cycles and unlikely to try out a new approach, try buying a washer with a simpler selection of cycles and settings.

The bottom line

🔎 The LG WM9000HVA front load washer has a very strong features, including a steam setting, 11 other settings, 14 cycles, and an app that will let you start or monitor a cycle. You're also primed to bark voice demands via Alexa or Google Assistant, so it’s top-notch if you can afford it ★★★★

Are you looking for a high-end front-load washer to help you bust stains? The LG WM9000HVA is our top pick. This washer has an app that can download cycles and check the progress of your wash, as well as a steam setting, 14 cycles, and four temperature settings.

Design: The 14 wash cycles include sanitary and allergen settings, as well as 12 settings, including TurboWash, Prewash, Delay Wash, and Extra Rinse. A large dial with touch buttons makes selecting your settings easy, although you may not want to spend long at the machine because you can download new cycles or track progress directly from the app anywhere. It also listens to voice commands from Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for those who don't have time to tap or type.

The washer's 5.2 cu. ft. capacity is way above average, easily fitting large family loads. It has also been AAFA certified as allergy—and asthma-friendly due to its ability to eliminate dust and deep clean. Meanwhile, the TubClean cycle sterilizes the tub and minimizes cleaning requirements.

Performance: On Best Buy, users have given the model 4.7 out of 5 stars, which is quite an achievement. Its huge capacity and quiet running received praise. The only qualm most people have is the high price. This sets high expectations, meaning that small issues, such as the detergent drawer not always draining properly or trouble using the smart app, stand out more.

Value: If you’re looking for the best, you should expect to pay a premium. The LG WM9000HVA costs over $1500, but there’s plenty to justify the expensive cost. It comes with a good one-year warranty on parts and labor, three years on the drum, and ten years on the motor. Considering that the washer won Energy Star awards in 2018 and 2019, you should also expect running costs to be quite low.

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The best front load washer for quiet cycles

Best front load washers: GE GFW550SSNWW

4. GE GFW550SSNWW

The GE GFW550SSNWW is a dream if you need quiet cycles for work or napping children.

Our expert review:

Specifications

Size: 39.75 (H) x 28 (W) x 32 (D) inches Capacity: 4.8 cu. ft. No. of programs: 14 Warranty: 10 year (motor) 3 year (tub) 1 year (parts and labor) Today's Best Deals

Reasons to buy

Smart features Quick cycles Quiet to operate

Reasons to avoid

No steam setting UltraFresh Vent has negative reviews

✅ You have young children: If you want a washer that won’t disturb napping young children or even work calls, this washer’s balancing technology handily helps to keep noise to a minimum.
✅ You run large loads: The washer's 4.8 cubic feet capacity should provide plenty of space if you regularly run large loads for a family or friends.
✅ Sometimes you’re in a hurry: The 20-minute quick wash cycle will speed up the laundry process, and the digital controls and large glass door are easy and quick to navigate.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want a steam setting: If you want to use steam to work out wrinkles or stains, you may want to look for a different model. This isn’t included in the ten wash cycles or settings.
❌ You only wash for one or two people: You may find this washer to be too large for just one or two people, so instead, check out a smaller-capacity model that provides less energy wastage when running small loads.
❌ You want a separate spin cycle: Although this GE model has a rinse and spin cycle, it lacks a separate spin cycle, which can help to produce drier clothes.

The bottom line

🔎 The GE GFW550SSNWW is a stackable washer with 4.8 cubic feet of space, a delay wash function, and perhaps most conveniently, it comes with balancing technology, which helps to keep vibrations and noise to a minimum ★★★★

When it comes to quiet cycles that won’t disturb sleeping babies or work calls, you can count on GE GFW550SSNWW. This front-load washer is also smart-enabled, and its handy delay wash function means that you can set the machine to start at the most convenient time.

Design: The stackable washer's UltraFresh Vent system eliminates the need to open the washer door for airing. Simultaneously, the Microban layer actively fights bacteria, helping to prevent smells even more so. With a large glass door and digital touch controls alongside a big dial, it’s ADA-compliant, which means that it’s deemed easy to operate and access by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The washer’s 4.8 cubic feet capacity easily fits a king-size comforter. If you lead a busy life, you can add any forgotten garments partway through the wash or schedule the machine to turn on at a specific time. The clever, smart technology means the app will alert you with a push notification when the cycle is finished.

You’re spoiled for choice with the ten wash cycles available. Unlike many other models in a similar price bracket, it includes a sanitizing and quick 20-minute wash cycle. However, it lacks a steam setting and a separate spin cycle.

Performance: The washer's maximum spin speed is 1,300 RPM, which is good but not the fastest in our line-up. Overall, it received an average of 4.7 out of five stars on Home Depot, with users praising the easy installation and how clean their clothes came out but criticizing the washer for being louder than expected on the spin cycle despite the balancing technology, which rebalances uneven loads.

Value: The washer retails for under $950, although it is listed closer to $750 during sales. This can provide some excellent savings on what is already a fair price for a smart washer with a good capacity and an Energy Star certification. One downfall is that it only has a one-year warranty.

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The best smart front load washer

Best front load washers: Samsung WF53BB8700AV

5. Samsung WF53BB8700AV

The Samsung WF53BB8700AV is the best smart front load washer

Our expert review:

Specifications

Size: 38.75 (H) x 27 (W) x 34.5 (D) inches Capacity: 5.3 cu. ft. No. of programs: 24 Warranty: 2 years parts and labor, 20 years limited Today's Best Deals

Reasons to buy

Huge number of cycles Smart features and Wi-Fi compatibility Steam function

Reasons to avoid

Not quick to dry clothes

✅ You want the ultimate control: With 24 cycles to choose from and customizable options, the Samsung WF53BB8700AV lets you play around with many different ways of washing your clothes.
✅ You’re an AI fan: The washer is equipped with an AI Smart Dial, which can give you cycle suggestions based on your previous washing habits and seasonal needs.
✅ You have a large family: If you have lots of people producing laundry, being armed with this washer’s 6.1 cubic feet capacity will mean that you can run bigger loads and save on your energy bills.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You don’t care for the latest tech: Whether you have trouble navigating apps or you prefer to work in an old-school way, you will lose out on many of this washer’s benefits if you’re not using its smart features.
❌ You want a budget option: This high-tech washer is worth $1,249, which is significantly more than some of the other front-load washers we’ve reviewed.
❌ You use just a basic cycle: If you’re only going to use this machine to run one basic wash cycle, it’s worth saving your money and getting a budget-friendly washer with a smaller selection of settings and cycles.

The bottom line

🔎 The Samsung WF53BB8700AV will keep your laundry in order using top-notch smart techs like AI, Wi-Fi compatibility, and customizable cycles. Giving you 24 cycles to choose from, it’s almost like a laundry day playground ★★★★½

Samsung WF53BB8700AV is a smart washer that makes life and laundry much easier. The front-load washer comes with Wi-Fi connectivity, an app, a customizable cycle list, and even an AI Smart Dial, which learns your washing habits and proposes which cycle you should use next.

Design: Smart technology aside, the Samsung WF53BB8700AV nails the basics. Its 6.1 cubic feet drum capacity may offer way too much space for couples or singles, but it’s perfect for families who run large loads. There are a huge number of cycles to choose from, 24 to be exact, including a quick 28-minute cycle for when you’re very busy and a steam setting that can significantly freshen up clothes. It comes in Black or Stainless Steel, which are both sleek and slightly futuristic looking.

While it's stackable, the washer is on the larger side, weighing 496 lbs, and may not fit into smaller spaces. If it fits, the Swirl+ pattern drum will provide extra cleaning power. There are also 14 different ways to customize your cycle, such as a Pre-Soaking or a Child Lock.

The AI Smart Dial suggests cycles based on your previous washing habits and the season. The SmartThings App is also great for planning and troubleshooting, letting you monitor the cycle’s progress from the sofa.

Performance: The Samsung WF53BB8700AV has many features, and with 4.7 out of 5 stars on the Samsung website, it seems that users are happy with it. Some, however, complained that it takes a while to dry clothes.

Value: At $1,249, this Samsung washer will make a mark on your budget. However, because you get AI technology and many premium smart features, we reckon this is a fair price. In its favor, the washer also has a Tier 3 Energy Star rating, which means it meets some very stringent requirements for efficiency and will save you money in the long run.

The best front load washer for regular laundry needs

Best front load washers: Electrolux EFLW317TIW review

6. Electrolux EFLW317TIW

For regular laundry needs and everyday tasks, the Electrolux EFLW317TIW is a reliable performer

Our expert review:

Specifications

Size: 38(h) x 27(w) x 32(d) inches Capacity: 4.3 cu. ft. No. of programs: 5 Warranty: 10 years (motor & tub) Today's Best Deals

Reasons to buy

Large capacity Energy efficient Fits most spaces

Reasons to avoid

Limited cycles No quick wash option

✅ You have basic needs: The Electrolux EFLW317TIW covers most of the essentials with its five cleaning cycles and basic settings for water temperature, soil level, and spin speed.
✅ You want to save on bills: As an Energy Certified model, the washer’s expected running costs are extremely low and range from just $7 - 8 dollars per year.
✅ You like to plan: Using the delay start function, you can set a wash to start up to 12 hours in advance, saving you time during the day or in the evening.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You have a large family: With 4.3 cubic feet of space, this machine can handle regular laundry loads, but it will struggle to cope with the demands of a very large family, requiring you to run additional cycles.
❌ You want a white laundry setting: If you prefer to use a tailored cycle for your precious white laundry, the Electrolux EFLW317TIW sadly does not offer this option.
❌ You want to track your laundry’s progress from your phone: Some washers provide app compatibility so that you can keep tabs on your washing from afar, but this simple design does not.

The bottom line

🔎 The Electrolux EFLW317TIW may not have smart features, but if you want a quiet, reliable model that can easily handle all of your regular laundry needs, this is the machine for it ★★★★

The Electrolux EFLW317TIW handles regular laundry needs like a pro, thanks to its straightforward approach. Working quietly and reliably, it certainly doesn’t offer the biggest capacity in our line-up, but its 4.3 cubic foot drum and big-brand technology guarantee you a reliable sidekick.

Design: This is a no-frills washer with a basic, white design. There’s no steam setting, nor are there options for Wi-Fi or app compatibility. Instead, it offers a very simple laundry formula. There are five cleaning cycles to choose from, including options for water temperature, soil level, and spin speed, as well as settings for heavy-duty, normal, delicates, or a rinse and spin. It’s missing a setting for white laundry, which may be a dealbreaker for some.

The washer’s maximum spin speed is 1,100 RPM, which is not an exceptional score. However, it has a delay start function to schedule a cycle up to 12 hours in advance, and it's easy to operate with a simple LED display. If you need to save space, the machine can also be stacked using a separate stacking kit.

Performance: Reviews of the model’s performance on Electrolux and Home Depot are mostly positive and compliment the washer’s quietness and ease of use. Lower ratings mainly criticize the lack of features. The machine is also quiet, which is handy if you want to place it on the second floor of a home or in an apartment.

Value: We wouldn’t count the Electrolux EFLW317TIW as a ‘steal,’ considering that it’s quite pricey for the limited features it offers. However, if you want a reliable washer that will get the job done, you may consider it worth the $999. It’s also energy efficient, being Energy Star certified, and comes with a great 10-year warranty. Its estimated running costs are impressively $7 - 8 per year.

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The best large capacity front load washer

Best front load washers: LG WM9500HKA

7. LG WM9500HKA

The LG WM9500HKA has a large capacity suitable for bigger families and those who get through clothes quickly

Our expert review:

Specifications

Size: 41.9(h) x 29.63(w) x 34.6(d) inches Capacity: 5.8 cu. ft. No. of programs: 14 Warranty: 1 year parts and labor, 10 years motor Today's Best Deals

Reasons to buy

Great capacity Smart features

Reasons to avoid

Not stackable Bulky design

✅ You have lots of laundry to deal with: As a washer with 5.8 cubic feet of space, it provides plenty of space to deal with a whole family’s laundry requirements.
✅ You’re a fan of smart features: The model comes with a compatible app and can be connected to Google Home or Amazon Alexa to give instructions using voice control.
✅ You want extensive settings: The washer offers plenty of cycles and settings, making it a great choice if you want many different ways to wash and clean your clothes at your disposal.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want to stack your washer: Because the detergent drawers are positioned on top of the machine, the already bulky LG WM9500HKA cannot be stacked on top of a dryer to save space.
❌ You want to budget: This model is very expensive, thanks to its huge capacity and smart features, so if you’re on a budget, you may want to find a cheaper option with fewer features.
❌ You don’t get through much laundry: If you often run small or half-full laundry cycles, the LG WM9500HKA will waste a lot of energy and water.

The bottom line

🔎 The LG WM9500HKA has a huge 5.8 cubic feet capacity, large doors, and smart features, making it a formidable force for family laundry days no matter how many towels or clothes you have to wash - just note that it all comes at a high price ★★★★

If you regularly do a lot of laundry, the LG WM9500HKA will be a good match. This large-capacity washer has a huge 5.8 cubic feet capacity. It also comes with smart features, including smart speakers for voice control.

Design: LED indicators light up the LG model's central dial, which lets you select from various cycles. A large door also makes it easy to peer inside, as well as to load your washer. The washer is handily twin-wash compatible, meaning that you can place a pedestal washer underneath to run two cycles simultaneously. Sadly, though, due to the detergent drawer being positioned on top, the machine is not stackable with a dryer despite being easy to use

You can bark orders to the washer via Google Home or Amazon Alexa. The app also lets you schedule a wash or diagnose any errors, even if you're sitting in a different room. The cycles and settings are also extremely extensive and include steam or allergen settings. New cycles can be downloaded via your phone, which is the ultimate in the latest technology.

Performance: The LG model’s 6Motion technology makes the machine a high performer. The drum swings gently from side to side when handling delicate garments and switches to a scrubbing motion for heavily stained clothes.

All the while, anti-vibration technology ensures that the washer doesn’t get too loud. The main complaints from users on Home Depot are that the machine is too large and that the control panel seems overly sensitive when selecting settings and cycles.

Value: At just under $2,000, the LG WM9500HKA is one of the most expensive washers we’ve reviewed. However, it is Energy Star certified and backed by a good 10-year limited warranty to protect your money should the machine malfunction in the future. The high initial cost is to be expected, considering its huge capacity and elevated smart features.

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How we choose the best front load washers

We purposely selected a variety of front-load washers from major retailers to compare, taking into account popularity with customers. We made detailed charts comparing features that matter for front-load washing machines, including annual operating costs, total capacity, water used per wash, dimensions, warranty, and more. We gave better rankings to the units that have useful features like a wide variety of cycles, soil levels, water temperatures, and presets.

How to choose the best front load washer for you

Here are the key features to look for when you're buying a front-loading washing machine.

1. Energy Efficiency

All the washing machines we reviewed are Energy Star certified by the U.S. Department of Energy. That means they are at least 20 percent more energy efficient than the minimum required federal standard. Many of these machines go far beyond the Energy Star level. Suppose you want a machine with a low running cost. In that case, you should pay attention to other energy stats as well, including the estimated annual operating cost, power cost, water costs, and water usage. The DOE also provides information about the average water used per wash and the water factor (WF), which is the number of gallons per cycle per cubic foot. The lower the WF, the better.

More on Large Appliances

Buying Guides

Reviews

The size of the machine determines a fair amount of energy efficiency—if the washer has a smaller wash drum, it will use less water and power. As such, it is worth buying the smallest machine that accommodates your needs. However, the correlation is not always exact. We saw many machines of roughly the same capacity with quite different energy efficiency numbers. See our energy scores for more information, and check out the DOE's site for specifics about energy-efficient machines.

2. Wash Cycles & Options

Washing machines with a great amount of cycles are generally better, but look at the types of wash options, too. If you plan to use cloth diapers for your baby, for instance, you will want a sanitized cycle. If you have athletes in your household, you may want a heavy-duty cycle that can power through stains. We gave higher scores to machines that have NSF-certified cycles. This means they can reduce 99.9 percent of microorganisms without carryover to future loads.

Some machines also have allergen cycles for anyone who has more sensitive needs and must have their washing machine reflect this. For anyone in a rush, Quick cycles, which can be completed in just 30 minutes, will be a godsend, as they allow you to get through your mountain of clothes a lot quicker and don’t compromise on washing power.

Another new and popular feature is machines that can automatically dispense detergent for you. To get up to 40 excellent washes, you need only insert your detergent once, and your machine will use the weight of your load to determine exactly how much detergent it needs. Many users have said this feature saves them time and also a lot of money, as they aren’t overusing laundry products anymore and repurchase them less frequently.

3. Design & Dimensions

Before shopping, measure the space you have available for your washer. Even if you have a tiny laundry room, you can find innovative features on a compact unit. The best compact washers offer design features so you won't feel like you have to sacrifice functionality for size.

You may also want to consider a front-load washer with a reversible door so that you can transport your machine to your laundry room or to anyone with disabilities who needs improved access.

4. Warranty

A washing machine represents a significant investment, so look for one with strong manufacturer coverage, especially on the motor. You should be able to count on the most expensive part of the washing machine for years to come.

Front load washer FAQs

Are front load washers better?

Front-load washers are becoming increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency, water conservation, and cleaning capabilities. They are generally more efficient than top-load washers and use less water since they tumble clothes through a small amount rather than filling the drum.

Front-load washers don't have an agitator, so they are slightly better for washing delicates. Another benefit is their ability to handle larger loads. The drum is typically more extensive than a top-load washer, so you can wash more clothes in one load. This can save time and energy, as well as reduce the number of loads you need to do.

Can a front load washer and dryer be stacked?

Front-load washers can be stacked on top of a compatible dryer, which makes them a great space-saving option. Most manufacturers offer stackable front-load washers and dryers as a set, or you can purchase them individually and stack them using a stacking kit. Stackable front-load washers and dryers are typically designed to fit in a standard-sized room and can be installed by a professional - or yourself if you're handy.

Do front load washers use less water?

Opting for a front-load washer can help with your household bills and benefit the environment. According to energy watchdog Energy Star, front-loading washers use 25% less energy and water, so you should see a big difference in water and energy bills if you switch to a front-loading device. The reduction is even more impressive when compared to traditional top-load agitator washers, with a front loader using 45% less energy and 50% less water. Front loading washes rinse clothes by spraying them with high-pressure water rather than soaking them in a large amount of water. Better for your bank and the environment!

Do front load washers have mold problems?

Some front-load washer owners find they have had problems with mold, but that tends to be lessened in washer-dryer combos. You can try to reduce the risk by leaving the washer door open between uses to allow it to dry out and wiping around the rubber seal with some kitchen roll to remove any water droplets. You can also run an empty self-cleaning cycle once a month with some bleach or a specialty washer cleaner. This will also help to prevent bad odors.

Can front load washer doors be reversed?

Most front-load washer doors are attached on the left-hand side and cannot be reversed due to all the electronics required to lock the door securely to keep the water inside while it is running. A handful of models allow you to reverse the door but double-check the manual to be sure before purchasing.